GMC Terrain Quiz
Keys, Doors and Windows

Remote Vehicle Start

In this manual: Keys, Doors and Windows
Introduction — 1In Brief — 46Keys, Doors and Windows — 37Seats and Restraints — 60Storage — 6Instruments and Controls — 58Lighting — 16Infotainment System — 1Climate Control — 8Driving and Operation — 128Vehicle Care — 75Service and Maintenance — 8Technical Data — 5Customer Information — 18OnStar — 6Connected Services — 4
6steps
~36min
2/5difficulty
Done 0 of 6

If equipped, this feature allows the engine to be started from outside the vehicle.

GMC Terrain. Remote Vehicle Start: This button will be on the RKE transmitter if the vehicle has remote start.

The climate control system will use previous settings during remote start. The rear defogger may turn on during remote start based on cold ambient conditions. The rear defogger indicator light does not illuminate during remote start.

If equipped with heated and ventilated front seats, they may turn on during remote start. See Heated and Ventilated Front Seats.

If equipped with a heated steering wheel, it may turn on during remote start. See Heated Steering Wheel.

Laws in some local areas may restrict the use of remote start. For example, some laws require that a person using remote start keep the vehicle in view. Check local regulations for any requirements.

Do not use remote start if the vehicle is low on fuel. The vehicle may run out of fuel.

Other conditions can affect transmitter performance. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System.

Starting the Engine Using Remote Start

  1. Press and releaseGMC Terrain. Remote Vehicle Starton the RKE transmitter.
  2. Immediately press and holdGMC Terrain. Remote Vehicle Startfor at least four seconds or until the turn signal lamps begin to flash. Flashing turn signal lamps confirm that the remote start request has been received.

    The parking lamps will turn on and remain on while the engine is running. The vehicle doors will be locked.

  3. Turn the ignition on before driving.

    The engine will shut off after 15 minutes if the extension is not used or the ignition is turned on.

Extending Engine Run Time

For a 15-minute extension, after 30 seconds, repeat steps 1 and 2 while the engine is running. Remote start can be extended one time.

When remote start is extended, an additional 15 minutes will be added.

For example, if the engine has been running for 15 minutes and 15 minutes are added, the engine will run for a total of 30 minutes.

No more than two remote starts or starts with extension are allowed between ignition cycles.

The ignition must be turned on and then off before remote start can be used again.

Canceling a Remote Start

To turn off the engine:

  1. Press and holdGMC Terrain. Remote Vehicle Startuntil the parking lamps turn off.
  2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
  3. Turn the ignition on, then off.

Conditions Under Which Remote Start Will Not Operate

The remote start feature will not operate if:

  • The transmitter is inside the vehicle.
  • The hood is not closed.
  • The hazard warning flashers are on.
  • There is an emissions control system malfunction.
  • The engine coolant temperature is too high.
  • The oil pressure is low.
  • Two remote starts or a start with extension have already been used.
  • The vehicle is not in P (Park).

Remote start ready

If the vehicle does not have a remote vehicle start feature, it may have remote start ready capability. This feature allows your dealer to add a manufacturer remote vehicle start feature. See your dealer to add the manufacturer remote vehicle start feature to the vehicle.

Test yourself

A quick GMC Terrain quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.