How To Remote Start 2019 Volvo XC90?

Ever been stuck in a freezing parking lot, shivering as you wait for your car to warm up? Or maybe you’ve melted into your seat on a scorching summer day, wishing your car could cool down before stepping inside. Well, buckle up because we’re about to dive into the world of remote start for your 2019 Volvo XC90!

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What is Remote Start, and Why do You Need It?

You’re cosied up inside on a chilly morning, sipping your coffee, when you remember you’ve got to brave the cold for your commute. But wait! With a simple tap on your phone, your Volvo XC90 springs to life, warming up and defrosting while you finish that last delicious sip. That’s the magic of remote start.

Remote start isn’t just a fancy feature for show-offs (though it does feel pretty cool). It’s a game-changer for comfort and convenience. In colder climates, it’s like having a personal car-warming elf. And in the sweltering heat? It’s your mobile oasis, ready and cool when you are.

As the clever Swedes, Volvo has taken this technology and run with it. They’ve seamlessly integrated remote start into their vehicles, making it as easy as pie. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty of how to make this work for your 2019 Volvo XC90.

Understanding the Remote Start System in the 2019 Volvo XC90

Volvo’s remote start tech is like a well-oiled machine (pun intended). It’s designed to be user-friendly, even for those who still struggle with TV remotes. The star of the show here is the Volvo Cars app. Think of it as your car’s assistant, living in your pocket.

Before you start daydreaming about controlling your car like a futuristic movie hero, let’s break down how this works. The app connects to your car through the magic of the internet, allowing you to send commands from just about anywhere. It’s like having a long, invisible key that can reach your car wherever you’ve parked it.

But here’s the kicker – not all Volvo models are created equal regarding remote start. Some might have more bells and whistles than others. The 2019 XC90, though? It’s got the whole shebang. Lucky you!

Step-by-Step Guide to Remote Start the 2019 Volvo XC90

Prerequisites Before Starting

Before we jump into the how-to, let’s cover some basics. Think of these as the rules of the remote start game:

Your XC90 needs to be locked up tight. We don’t want any sneaky passengers hitching a ride!
The transmission should be in “Park”. (No rolling away on adventures without you!)
Ensure no one (two-legged or four-legged) is inside or near the car. Safety first!
Check that you’ve got enough fuel. Your Volvo needs at least 8 litres to play this game.

How to Use the Volvo Cars App for Remote Start

Alright, let’s get this show on the road! First things first, you need to download the Volvo Cars app. It’s available on both iOS and Android, so no excuses!

Once you’ve got the app, it’s Time to introduce it to your car. Log in with your Volvo ID (don’t have one? Time to make one!), and connect your XC90 to the app. It’s like setting up a blind date between your phone and car.

Now for the fun part:

Open the app and verify your identity. You might need to use FaceID or enter a PIN. (Your car takes security seriously!)
Look for the remote start option. It might be hiding under a menu that looks like a car or a key.
Hit that button and listen closely – your XC90 should roar to life!

Remember, though, this isn’t a free pass to start driving. The car will run, but you’ll still need to hop in and push the start button to drive off. Think of it as your car warming up for the big race.

Features Activated During Remote Start

Automatic Climate Control Activation

Here’s where things get cool (or warm, depending on your preference). When you remote start your XC90, it doesn’t just turn on the engine. Oh no, it goes the extra mile.

The climate control system kicks into gear, reading the outside temperature and adjusting accordingly. If it’s freezing outside, your car will start warming up, maybe even turning on the seat heaters and defrosting your mirrors. Stuck in a heatwave? Your Volvo will start cooling things down so you don’t melt into a puddle when you get in.

It’s like having a tiny, very efficient butler living in your car, ensuring everything is right for your arrival.

Limitations of the System

Before you get too excited and start remotely starting your car for fun, there are a few things to keep in mind. You can only use remote start twice before manually starting the car. It’s Volvo’s saying, “Come on, we know you’re just showing off now.”

Also, please, please, PLEASE don’t use remote start in enclosed spaces. Your Volvo may be smart, but it can’t magically make exhaust fumes disappear. Always use this feature responsibly and in open areas.

Using the Key Fob to Remote Start (if applicable)

While the app is the star of the show, your key fob might have some tricks up its sleeve too. Some XC90 models allow you to start remotely using the key fob. It’s like a magic wand for your car!

Here’s how it usually works:

Press the lock button to make sure your car is secured.
Then, press and hold the engine start button (it often has a circular arrow symbol) for about 2 seconds.
Watch for the turn signals to flash a few times – that’s your car’s way of saying, “I’m alive!”

Keep in mind, though, that the key fob has its limits. You must usually be within 100 feet of your car for this to work. So, do not start your car from the moon, unfortunately.

Remote Start Climate Control Feature

Now, here’s a neat party trick. With the Volvo Cars app, you can control your car’s climate without starting the engine. It’s perfect when you just want to cool down or heat the interior without using any fuel.

This feature is especially handy if you have a plug-in hybrid XC90. Using grid power instead of your precious fuel, you can precondition the car while it’s still plugged in. It’s like having your cake and eating it – comfort and efficiency all rolled into one!

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Remote Start Failure

So, you’ve tried to remote start your XC90, and… nothing. Don’t panic! Here are a few things to check:

Is your fuel level above the minimum? Your car might be too thirsty to start.
Did you leave the car in gear other than Park? It won’t start if it thinks it might roll away.
Check your vehicle settings. Sometimes, these features can get turned off accidentally.

If all else fails, try turning it off and on again. No, restarting the app or your phone can work wonders.

Dealing with App Connectivity Issues

In the age of technology, we’re all familiar with the dreaded “no connection” message. If your app isn’t playing nice with your car, try these steps:

Check your phone’s internet connection. (No, being angry at it doesn’t count as checking.)
Ensure your Volvo account is current and properly linked to your car.
Try logging out of the app and logging back in. It’s like giving your app a quick nap.

If you’ve tried everything and your app still refuses to cooperate, it might be Time to call Volvo support. They’re usually pretty helpful, and they probably need someone to talk to anyway.

Legal and Environmental Considerations for Remote Start

Before you start remotely crazy, it’s worth checking your local laws. Some places have regulations about idling vehicles, even if you’re not in them. It’s all about reducing unnecessary emissions and being kind to Mother Nature.

Using remote start responsibly means only using it when you need it. Starting your car is tempting to impress your neighbours, but think of the polar bears!

Safety Tips for Using Remote Start

Safety first, cool factor second! Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Always ensure your car is parked in a safe, open area before using remote start.
Take a quick look around before starting. Ensure no one near the car might be startled by it suddenly coming to life.
Keep your car locked during remote start. You don’t want anyone hopping in for a joyride!

With great power comes great responsibility. Use your remote start wisely, young padawan.

Advanced Features of the Volvo Cars App

Scheduling Remote Start for Future Times

Here’s where things get fancy. The Volvo Cars app lets you schedule remote starts in advance. Imagine telling your car, “Hey, wake up at 7:45 AM tomorrow,” and having it warm and ready when you leave for work. It’s like setting an alarm clock for your car!

Tracking and Monitoring the Car’s Performance Through the App

But wait, there’s more! The app isn’t just for remote start. It’s like a Swiss army knife for your XC90. You can check your fuel level, find where you parked (no more lost cars in the mall parking lot!), and even track your car’s overall health. It’s like having a tiny mechanic living on your phone.

Maintenance and Battery Life Impacts of Remote Start

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – battery life. Using remote start frequently can put a bit of strain on your car’s battery. It’s like asking your car to do a bunch of mini-workouts throughout the day.

To keep your battery healthy:

Try not to use remote start for super short periods. Give your car 5-10 minutes to run and recharge the battery.
If you’re not driving for a while, consider using a battery tender to keep things juiced up.
Pay attention to your battery’s age. If it’s getting up there in years, it might struggle more with frequent remote starts.

Remember, a healthy battery means a happy car and a happy car means a happy you!

And there you have it, folks! You’re now a certified expert in remote starting your 2019 Volvo XC90. Impress your friends, family, and random passersby with your newfound car-starting superpowers. Just remember to use them for good, not evil. And maybe your car will appreciate all this attention and decide not to break down on you in the middle of nowhere. Here’s hoping!