Starting your car with a Viper remote is a convenient and efficient way to warm up or cool down your vehicle before you step inside. Viper remotes are equipped with advanced technology that allows you to start your car from a distance with just the press of a button. This guide will walk you through the basic steps of how to start car with viper remote.
Benefits of Using Remote Start
Using a remote start system like Viper offers numerous benefits that enhance both convenience and comfort. One of the key advantages is the ability to preheat or precool your car, ensuring a comfortable temperature when you enter, regardless of the weather outside.
This feature saves time, especially during cold winters or hot summers, as you no longer need to wait for the cabin to reach your desired temperature. Additionally, remote start systems improve safety by allowing you to start the car while keeping it securely locked, deterring potential theft. They also reduce wear and tear on the engine by allowing it to warm up properly before driving. Overall, remote start systems provide a seamless and practical solution to improve your daily driving experience.
Different Viper Remote Models
Viper offers a variety of remote start systems to cater to different needs and preferences. The entry-level models provide basic remote start functionality, allowing you to start your vehicle with ease from a significant distance. Mid-tier models, such as the Viper 1-way systems, include additional features like extended range and improved signal reliability.
For those seeking advanced options, Viper 2-way systems provide real-time feedback, confirming that your vehicle has started successfully. Some premium models even integrate smartphone compatibility through the Viper SmartStart app, enabling you to control and monitor your car from virtually anywhere. With a range of options available, Viper ensures there is a remote start solution for every driver.
Preparation Before Using Remote Start
Before utilizing your Viper Remote Start system, it is essential to ensure the proper setup and conditions for optimal performance. First, verify that the system has been professionally installed by a certified technician to avoid potential issues. Check that your vehicle is in good working condition, including the battery health and fuel level, as these factors can impact the system’s functionality.
Familiarize yourself with the user manual to understand the specific features and operation of your remote start model. Additionally, ensure that the area around your vehicle is clear of any obstacles or hazards before activating the system. Taking these preliminary steps will help you enjoy a seamless and reliable remote start experience.
10 Methods How to Start Car with Viper Remote
1. Ensure the Vehicle is Properly Prepared for Remote Start
Before using the Viper remote to start your car, ensure the vehicle is in a condition that permits remote activation. Most Viper systems require that the hood is closed, the gear is in park (for automatic transmission), and the doors are fully shut. Additionally, many setups involve a safety system where the engine won’t start if the check engine light is on. If any of these conditions are not met, the remote start feature may fail or be bypassed by the system’s built-in safety logic.
2. Identify the Correct Remote Model and Button Layout
Viper remotes come in several varieties: 1-way, 2-way LCD, and smartphone app-based options. It’s essential to know which type you have and understand its button layout. Typically, the remote start function is associated with a circular arrow icon or a designated button with the word “Start” or a similar symbol. If you’re unsure, consult the manual that came with your Viper system. For smartphone-based models using the Viper SmartStart app, ensure your mobile device is connected to the internet, and your vehicle has an active connection.
3. Press the Remote Start Button Correctly
To initiate the engine start sequence, most Viper remotes require that you press and hold the remote start button for a few seconds—usually around 2–3 seconds—until the lights flash or an icon appears. In the case of 2-way remotes, you may hear a tone or see confirmation on the screen. Holding the button too briefly may not trigger the start sequence, while pressing it too long could lead to cancellation or system confusion. Consistency in your button press duration helps build a reliable routine.
4. Watch for Confirmation Lights and Tones
Once you’ve sent the start command, the vehicle’s parking lights usually flash to confirm that the request has been received. In many cases, the car will also chirp if you have an accompanying Viper alarm system. For 2-way remotes, the screen should display a confirmation message or icon, such as a puff of exhaust indicating the engine is running. Observing these indicators ensures the command has been successful and alerts you if anything has gone wrong—like a failed start or a bypassed sensor.
5. Use the Viper SmartStart App if You Prefer Mobile Control
If you have the Viper SmartStart module installed, you can start your car from virtually anywhere using the smartphone app. Open the app, log into your account, and locate the remote start button—usually marked with a circular arrow or labeled clearly. Tap the icon and wait for the app to send the command to your vehicle. You’ll receive a confirmation notification once the car has successfully started. This method is ideal for long-range or out-of-sight starts, especially in large parking lots or during inclement weather.
6. Set Runtime Preferences to Your Needs
Most Viper systems allow you to program how long the vehicle will run once started remotely—usually between 5 and 30 minutes. If your car shuts off too soon or runs longer than necessary, refer to your Viper manual to adjust the runtime. On newer models, you can make these changes through the app or a series of button presses on the remote. Optimizing runtime conserves fuel and ensures your vehicle is comfortable without excessive idling.
7. Know How to Enter and Drive the Vehicle After Remote Start
After starting the car remotely, it’s crucial to transition to normal driving mode correctly. Unlock the doors using the remote or app, enter the car, and insert your key (or press the brake in push-to-start systems) to take control of the engine. Viper systems are designed to shut the car off if the brake is pressed without the key present—this is a safety feature. Always have your key fob in hand when approaching the vehicle after a remote start.
8. Use Remote Start Scheduling (If Supported)
Advanced Viper models and the SmartStart app allow you to schedule remote starts ahead of time. This is particularly useful in cold climates where preheating the car in the morning can save time and improve comfort. To use this feature, open the app or follow your system’s manual to set specific days and times. Ensure the vehicle is consistently left in a safe and ready state each night (gear in park, hood closed, doors locked) to enable successful starts on schedule.
9. Troubleshoot Failed Starts Systematically
If your vehicle fails to start with the Viper remote, check for blinking lights, sounds, or app notifications. A rapid flash or specific chirp pattern may indicate a hood sensor is open, the engine check light is active, or the system detected a security risk. Check your battery level (both vehicle and remote), ensure the system has no error codes, and confirm you’re within range. Refer to the troubleshooting section in your Viper user manual for interpretation of light and chirp patterns.
10. Keep the Remote or App Updated
Finally, keeping your Viper remote and app in optimal condition ensures long-term performance. Replace the battery in your remote periodically, especially if button response becomes sluggish. For smartphone users, make sure the app is updated to the latest version and that your account is in good standing with any required subscriptions. If you’re using cellular-based remote start, ensure your car’s SmartStart module has a current service plan and signal. Staying updated minimizes communication errors and improves reliability.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and reliability of your remote start system. Begin by inspecting your remote for any physical damage, such as cracks or worn-out buttons, and address these issues promptly to prevent further wear. Clean the remote periodically to remove dirt and debris that could obstruct button functionality. For the vehicle’s system, schedule routine inspections with a certified technician to check for software updates or potential wiring issues. Additionally, monitor the status of your vehicle’s battery, as a weak car battery can affect the performance of the remote start feature. Consistently following these upkeep steps will help safeguard the efficiency and convenience of your system over time.
Conclusion
Mastering the Viper remote start system is not only convenient but also enhances your vehicle’s usability in daily life. Whether you’re dealing with freezing winters or hot summers, remote start lets you step into a climate-controlled car, save time, and boost comfort. By understanding your remote’s layout, using the correct button sequences, and interpreting feedback from lights or app alerts, you can confidently operate your Viper system. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to start car with viper remote!