It’s frustrating when a feature you rely on suddenly stops working. For Lexus owners using the key fob remote start, encountering a service interruption can be particularly disappointing. One Lexus driver expressed their frustration online, stating they were told by a dealer that reactivating their remote start after it stopped working would cost $320. This led to considerable dissatisfaction, with the owner feeling misled and questioning their future with the Lexus brand.
However, it’s important to understand the details of Lexus’ connected services. Lexus Enform, as highlighted on the official Lexus website, includes features like remote engine start accessible via a mobile app. Crucially, this suite of convenient services, including the remote start capability, is often offered on a complimentary trial basis, typically for the first year of vehicle ownership. This trial period is clearly stated in Lexus materials and documentation provided at the time of purchase or lease.
The key fob remote start feature, while seemingly straightforward, can be linked to the Lexus Enform system. Therefore, when the complimentary Enform trial expires, features connected to it, such as remote start via the key fob, may cease to function unless a subscription is activated. This model is not unique to Lexus; many manufacturers, including GM with their OnStar service, employ similar subscription-based models for connected car features after a trial period.
While the initial frustration of unexpected costs is understandable, the subscription model for connected services like Lexus Enform is a standard industry practice. Understanding the terms of your vehicle’s services, including the duration of complimentary trials, is key to avoiding surprises and maintaining access to features like the convenient key fob remote start.
