Many Toyota owners are curious about the remote start feature available on their key fobs, particularly after any trial periods for connected services expire. Confusion often arises regarding whether this key fob remote start continues to function without a paid subscription. This article clarifies how Toyota’s key fob remote start operates long-term, based on official information from Toyota.
For owners of Toyota Highlander models with upgraded Premium Audio – typically found in Platinum, Limited, and XLE trims with Dynamic Navigation – the key fob remote start feature is designed to function for an extended period, even without an active Remote Connect subscription. According to Toyota’s official communication, this key fob functionality can last for up to ten years.
This ten-year period is linked to the Service Connect trial, which is also included with Premium Audio packages. While the Remote Connect trial, which enables remote start via the Toyota App, typically lasts for only one year, the basic key fob remote start operates independently for a significantly longer duration. Specifically, after the one-year Remote Connect trial concludes, the key fob remote start will continue to function for an additional nine years.
It’s important to note that during this period, while you retain the convenience of starting your vehicle with your key fob, access to advanced remote start features via the Toyota App will require a paid Remote Connect subscription. This means functions like starting your car from a distance using your smartphone app are subscription-based, but the fundamental key fob remote start remains operational for a considerable time without ongoing fees for select vehicles.
For owners of other Toyota models, such as L, LE, and XLE without Dynamic Navigation, the duration of key fob remote start functionality might vary. While some documentation suggests a similar ten-year period for select vehicles, it’s advisable to confirm the specifics for your particular model with your Toyota dealer or by consulting your vehicle’s documentation.
In conclusion, for many Toyota owners, especially those with Premium Audio packages, the Key Fob With Remote Start offers a valuable long-term benefit. It provides a reliable way to remotely start your vehicle for up to a decade without the need for a continuous subscription, ensuring consistent access to this convenient feature.
