How To Use Remote Start On Volvo XC90?

It’s a frosty winter morning, and you’re wrapped up in your cosy blanket, dreading the thought of stepping into an ice-cold car. But wait! What if I told you that your Volvo XC90 could be warm and toasty before you even leave your house? That’s the magic of remote start, my friends!

I know what you’re thinking: “How do I use this amazing feature on my Volvo XC90?” Well, you’re in luck! I’ve been using this nifty trick on my XC90 for years, and I’m here to spill all the beans. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the world of remote start for your Volvo XC90!

Table of Contents

What is Remote Start and Why It’s Useful for the Volvo XC90?

Overview of Remote Start Feature

Remote start is like having a personal car butler at your fingertips. It lets you start your Volvo XC90’s engine from a distance using your smartphone or key fob. Imagine telling your car, “Hey buddy, wake up and get ready for me!”

I remember the first time I used remote start on a chilly morning. Watching my XC90 come to life from my kitchen window, I felt like a wizard casting a spell. The ability to control your car’s climate before you even step outside is a game-changer, especially during those bone-chilling winters or sweltering summers.

Compatibility and Requirements for Remote Start

Before you get too excited, let’s ensure your Volvo XC90 is ready to party with a remote start. This cool feature is available on most recent XC90 models, but double-checking your specific year and trim level is always a good idea.

To use remote start, you’ll need a few things:

A compatible Volvo XC90 model
The Volvo Cars app installed on your smartphone
An active Volvo On Call subscription

If you’re not sure whether your XC90 has this feature, don’t worry! A quick chat with your local Volvo dealer can clear things up faster than you can say “remote start.”

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Remote Start on Volvo XC90

Using the Volvo Cars App for Remote Start

Alright, let’s get down to business! Using the Volvo Cars app for a remote start is easier than teaching a dog to sit. Here’s how I do it:

Open the Volvo Cars app on your smartphone.
Log in to your account (if you haven’t already done so).
Select your XC90 from the list of vehicles (in case you’re fancy enough to have multiple Volvos).
Look for the remote start icon – it usually looks like a little car with some wavy lines above it.
Tap the icon and set how long you want the engine to run (usually up to 15 minutes).
Hit the start button and watch the magic happen!

Remember, your XC90 needs to be locked and in “Park” for this to work. Also, make sure you have enough fuel – nobody likes a car that goes to sleep mid-warm-up!

How to Use the Key Fob to Activate Remote Start (If Available)

Some XC90 models also let you use the key fob for remote start. It’s like having a magic wand in your pocket! Here’s how it works:

Press the lock button on your key fob to ensure your XC90 is locked.
Press and hold the remote start button (usually marked with a circular arrow) for about two seconds.
Watch for the turn signals to flash, indicating that your car has received the command.

Using the key fob is great when you’re in a hurry or if your phone’s battery is as dead as a doornail. Just remember, the range might be shorter than using the app.

Requirements Before Using Remote Start

Before you start showing off your remote start skills to the neighbours, make sure:

Your XC90 is locked.
It’s in “Park” (because nobody wants a runaway Volvo).
There’s enough fuel in the tank.
All doors, hoods, and trunks are closed.

Also, be a good citizen and check your local laws about idling. We don’t want to upset Mother Nature or get a nasty ticket, do we?

Remote Start Features and Climate Control Settings

Automatic Climate Adjustments When Using Remote Start

Here’s where it gets really cool (pun intended). When you use remote start, your XC90 doesn’t fire up the engine – it turns into a weather wizard! The car senses the outside temperature and adjusts the climate control accordingly.

On a cold day, it’ll crank up the heat, warm up the seats (if equipped), and even defrost your mirrors. It’ll cool things down in summer faster than you can say “heatwave.” It’s like your XC90 gives you a big, comfy hug before you even get in!

Using Remote Start for Climate Control Only

Sometimes, you just want to cool down or warm up your XC90 without starting the engine. Good news – you can do that too! This feature is especially handy for hybrid models, where you can use the battery power to run the climate control without burning fuel.

To use this feature:

Open the Volvo Cars app.
Look for the climate control option (usually a fan or temperature icon).
Set your desired temperature.
Hit activate and enjoy your perfectly tempered car!

I always use this when I’m finishing up at the grocery store. My XC90 is as cool as a cucumber when I load my bags!

Safety Features and Precautions with Remote Start

Safety Protocols for Remote Start

Volvo didn’t just make remote start cool – they made it super safe, too. Your XC90 runs through a safety checklist faster than a pilot before takeoff. It makes sure:

The car is securely parked.
There are no critical error codes.
The hood is closed (to prevent any curious mechanics from getting a surprise).

If anything seems off, your XC90 will politely decline to start. It’s like having a very cautious Swedish friend looking out for you!

Legal Considerations and Compliance

Now, let’s talk about keeping it legal. Some places have laws about idling cars, especially in residential areas. It’s always a good idea to check your local regulations.

Pro tip: I set my remote start timer to the minimum needed to warm or cool down the car. It saves fuel, reduces emissions, and keeps me on the right side of the law. Win-win-win!

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Remote Start on Volvo XC90

Why Remote Start Might Not Work: Common Issues and Fixes

Even the best features can have hiccups. If your remote start is being stubborn, here are some common culprits:

Low fuel: Your XC90 might refuse to start if it’s running on fumes. Fill ‘er up!
Open hood or trunk: Make sure everything’s closed tight.
App glitches: Sometimes, turning it off and on again works wonders.

If all else fails, don’t hesitate to call your Volvo dealer. They’re usually happy to help and might even throw in some free coffee while they sort things out!

How to Update the Volvo Cars App for Better Performance

Keeping your Volvo Cars app updated is like feeding your smartphone its veggies – it keeps everything running smoothly. Here’s what I do:

Check for updates in your phone’s app store.
If there’s an update, download and install it.
Clear the app’s cache occasionally (it’s like giving it a mini spa day).

A well-maintained app means fewer headaches and more seamless remote starts. Trust me, your future self will thank you!

FAQs About Using Remote Start on the Volvo XC90

How Long Does Remote Start Last on the XC90?

The remote start on your XC90 typically runs for about 15 minutes. It’s like a little power nap for your car – just enough to warm or cool things up.

If you need more time, you can restart it once more before you can physically start the car. It’s perfect for those mornings when you hit the snooze button too many times!

Can you drive the XC90 remotely after starting it?

Absolutely! But there’s a little dance you need to do first:

Get in your toasty (or cool) XC90.
Press the brake pedal.
Turn the ignition knob.

Voilà! You’re ready to roll. It’s like your XC90 is saying, “Oh, it’s really you! Let’s go!”

Can Remote Start Be Used Multiple Times Consecutively?

You can use remote start twice in a row before you need to start the car manually. Your XC90 says, “Okay, I’ve warmed up twice now. Time for you to come drive me!”

After two remote starts, you’ll need to start the car the old-fashioned way (actually sitting in it) before you can use remote start again. It’s Volvo’s way of ensuring you haven’t forgotten about your car!

Benefits of Using Remote Start for Your Volvo XC90’s Longevity

How Remote Start Protects Your Engine and Interior

Using remote start isn’t just about comfort – it’s also good for your XC90’s health! Starting your engine and letting it warm up gently can reduce wear and tear, especially in cold weather.

Plus, by pre-cooling or pre-heating your car, you’re protecting your interior from extreme temperatures. No more cracked leather seats or steering wheels hot enough to fry an egg!

Environmental Considerations When Using Remote Start

While the remote start is super convenient, it’s important to use it wisely. Here are some eco-friendly tips:

Don’t overuse it – warm up or cool down just enough.
Avoid using it if you’re not leaving soon.
Consider using climate-only mode in hybrid models to save fuel.

Remember, a little consideration goes a long way in keeping our planet happy!

Comparing Volvo XC90 Remote Start with Competitor Models

How Volvo XC90 Remote Start Stacks Up Against Similar SUVs

In luxury SUVs, remote start features are like a fashion show – everyone’s trying to outdo each other. But our XC90? It struts down that runway with Swedish confidence!

Compared to some competitors like the Audi Q7 or BMW X5, the XC90’s remote start through the Volvo Cars app is often praised for its user-friendliness and reliability. It’s like the difference between a complicated TV remote and one that just works.

Unique Volvo Features That Enhance the Remote Start Experience

Volvo doesn’t just stop at the remote start – they’ve added some extra sprinkles on top:

Integration with other Volvo services in the app.
The ability to check your car’s status (like fuel level or if you left a window open).
Customizable climate settings that remember your preferences.

These little touches make using remote start on the XC90 feel less like a feature and more like a personalized experience.

And there you have it, folks! Everything you need to know about using remote start on your Volvo XC90. From chilly mornings to scorching afternoons, this feature is ready to make your driving life much more comfortable. So give it a try – your perfectly tempered XC90 awaits!