Remote Start - FOB to work after Remote Connect ends

There are several threads here from pissed off owners about remote start and the key FOB not working after the free remote services trial ends. I stumbled across this MFG communication on NHTSA, which seems to say remote start is still supposed to work from the key FOB after the remote connect ends.

Here is hoping that someone verifies if key FOB remote start not working is only a bug, not a feature. Note - looks like this is likely going to need a member with TechStream, or a very cooperative dealer.

https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10190459-9999.pdf
Tech TipT-TT-0599-20
NOTE: Network/cellular coverage may influence response time from each command. Sending multiple commands in a short period of time is not recommended. The remote start by key FOB is only possible (authorized) after the first successful start using the phone app.

4.Key FOB Remote Start Operation:Once the remote start from the key FOB is functioning after telematics enrollment and remote authorization, it should continue to operate even if the customer allows the remote services trial to lapse and not renew. If the key FOB remote start function no longer works after the trial has lapsed, check the Telematics Datalist items below.

• Remote Operation: Enabled (functioning correctly), Disabled (Contact the BEC)
• Remote A/C by Smart Key: Enabled (functioning correctly), Disabled (Contact the BEC)
• Remote Engine Starter Registration: Registered (functioning correctly), Not Registered (See section 3. B. of this document)
• Remote Door Lock Function: Registered (functioning correctly), Not Registered (See section 3. B. of this document)
• Communication Pausing State: Cancel Pausing (functioning correctly), Pausing (Perform the “Cancel Communication Function Pausing” Utility in Techstream or select the “OK” button on the Service Mode Screen displayed on the Radio Screen.

 

I do not have the Remote Connect, it's not an option on my truck here in Hawaii. Fob works fine. Don't understand why it would possibly stop working.

 

I have remote connect but do not use it. The FOB works fine with no problems.

 

I remeber reading one if the post about this topic. A few member said that the remote start thru the app will stop working. But the key fob will still work.

 

So other than remote start with the app what else does it give you ??

 

I dont use the app, but I remember people were saying it can start/stop ur car, lock door, roll up your window, remember where you last park. All from a very far distance. Not sure what else it can do. Maybe someone here who uses the app can confirm?

 

I used it for the trial period and you could remote lock and start/stop the truck, dont think you could control the windows though. It would also alert you if you forgot to lock the doors and would keep the location it was left at. Other than that though it was pretty useless IMO and not worth the 8 bucks a month to continue using it. And since the trial ended I have used my FOB to remote start the truck several times with no problems.

 

From the App Store:

Toyota app was developed to provide a convenient way to stay connected and informed about your vehicle.

The Toyota app supports 2010 or newer Toyota vehicles and for Hawaii customers, 2018 or newer Toyota vehicles.

• Owner’s Manual & Warranty Guides

Access to your owner’s manual and warranty guides at your fingertips.

• Dealer Locator

Login to the app and search for the closest Toyota Dealer and save your preferred dealer for future reference.

• Service Scheduling

When it is time to schedule your next service appointment, the app can assist.

• Roadside Assistance

In the event you need Roadside Assistance, login to the app for Roadside Assistance contact information.


Toyota app also supports Connected Services on select 2010 or newer, for Hawaii customers 2018 or newer capable vehicles. Sign up to activate, or manage your vehicles Connected Services.


• Remotely start/stop your vehicle.

This feature lets you remotely start your vehicle to warm or cool the interior based on the last climate-control settings.


• Lock/Unlock your doors

Not sure if you remembered to lock your vehicle? Now you can remotely lock and unlock your doors and receive confirmation.


• Find your parked vehicle

Locating your parked vehicle just got easier. Vehicle Finder uses the map on your smartphone to guide you to your vehicle's last known parked location.


• Guest Drivers Alerts and Notifications

You can set predetermined driver privileges by activating the Guest Driver Profile in your app.


• Vehicle maintenance alerts and health reports

You can now check your maintenance alerts and see your vehicle’s health status with the touch of a button.


• Drive Pulse

Drive Pulse encourages you to improve your driving habits.



(1) Available services vary by vehicle and subscription type.

(2) Remote services: Be aware of vehicle surroundings. Operate when legal and safe (e.g., do not start engine in enclosed space or if occupied by a child). See Owner’s Manual for limitations.

 

I let the free service expire. Remote fob still works.

If your fob doesn't work, you're probably doing it wrong.

 

Everything listed except roll up windows in my ‘21.

 

Ah, thanks for confirming. I don't use the app and I guess my memory isn't that good lol.

In that case, Toyota ain't getting a single penny from me just for that.

 

Just went and checked mine (2021) with current connected services. Cannot remote start from my fob, assuming it is 3x lock button like my 2018 plug and play remote start was?

 

You have to press and hold for 3 seconds on the third press.

 

That worked! Thank you, the press and hold part had escaped me.

 

I only knew because my wife has a new RAV4. My Taco is like your old 2018, just a 3x lock button press.

 

Fair enough, I'm just glad you knew! I had tried it in the past as well and just figured it would only work with smart connect and when that was up I would just order a new PNP system for $150 and move on. Glad it is integrated tho!

 

It USED to be that once the app expired and not renewed, they would disable it all over the air. Once they realized that (or heard us/other complain) that the fob is free airwaves, things changed silently. They initially disabled it all to grab your attention on renewing your subscription (money grab) but that's not right. I said it the whole time, its like not paying your TV cable bill, and instead of just taking away your channels/service, also disabling your volume up/down functions on your TV remote...that was wrong and should be illegal frankly.

The other drawback is that by subscribing to the remote connect service, the fine print terms state that you allow Toyota to monitor your driving habits for statistical and analytical improvements...and access to the your mic...just saying. Some have a problem with that as it infringes on privacy. Just don't use a remote connected vehicle to traffic for the cartel or discuss how to evade the IRS...

 

I was told that you can open and close windows with your FOB only if you take it to your dealer they can program it. Not sure about the apps cause I do not use them.

 

I hope the window part is true. I'ma stop by Toyota next week and ask them.

 

Only one way to find out is to go to the dealer let me know if is true.