Acura MDX Remote Start: The Full Rundown

in Model Info and Features
Acura MDX driving near a rocky cliff

Source: Flickr

Remote start technology has become essential for many drivers, especially during extreme weather. This innovative system lets drivers start their vehicles remotely, warming the engine and cabin before stepping outside. Experts highlight its usefulness in providing comfort and safety for commuters, particularly during harsh winter months. By preheating the vehicle, remote start systems not only enhance the driving experience but also contribute to improved visibility, engine health, and overall vehicle efficiency.

In other words, while remote start systems aren’t a must-have, you’ll sure thank yourself for having them during sweltering summer and brutal winter months.

With that said, we have another remote start rundown for you. Today, we talk about the Acura MDX remote start. Which MDX models have this feature? How does one activate remote start from the MDX? Keep reading to learn more.

What is Remote Start and Its Purpose?

Remote Start is an advanced feature that allows drivers to start their car’s engine remotely, usually with a key fob or a smartphone app. Its primary purposes are to enhance comfort, improve safety, take care of the vehicle, provide convenience, save time, and offer security features.

Starting the vehicle remotely can pre-condition the interior temperature, making it warm in winter and cool in summer, ensuring a comfortable driving environment. It also aids in defrosting the windshield and windows, providing better visibility and safer driving conditions in cold or icy weather. Gradually warming the engine improves its longevity and performance, especially in cold weather, by allowing the oil to circulate and warm up, reducing engine wear.

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Remote Start offers the ease of starting the car without physical interaction, which is especially useful in harsh weather conditions or when carrying items that make accessing keys difficult. For busy individuals, it saves time by eliminating the need to start and warm up the car manually. Many remote start systems include security features to ensure the vehicle remains locked and secure even when the engine is running remotely.

Overall, Remote Start technology enhances the driving experience by combining comfort, convenience, safety, and vehicle maintenance, making it particularly beneficial for those living in areas with extra harsh weather conditions.

Does the Acura MDX Have a Remote Start?

Yes, the Acura MDX has a remote start feature that can be activated using the remote key fob or through the AcuraLink app on a smartphone. Remote start is operated by either the key fob or the AcuraLink app.

The availability of the remote start feature in the Acura MDX varies across different trims and model years. It is usually an optional feature or included in higher-trim packages.

For example, the 2018 Acura MDX remote start is standard on models equipped with the Technology, Advance, or Entertainment Packages but unavailable on the base 3.5L model. The remote start function on these trims is operated through the key fob.

In the case of the 2022 MDX, the Advance Package includes the remote start feature. The Acura MDX does not have traditional trim levels but offers various packages like Technology, A-Spec, and Advance, with each subsequent package adding more features. To opt for the A-Spec or Advance packages, you must include the Technology package.

ACURA MDX PROS & CONS

Let’s help you make an informed decision by looking at the Acura MDX pros and cons to determine if it’s the right choice for your current position in life.

For the 2024 model year, the Acura MDX Type S Advance trim includes remote start as a standard feature. The MDX has evolved to offer various features across different packages and trims, focusing on enhancing driver convenience and vehicle performance. For specific model years and trims with this feature, it’s best to consult the owner’s manual or contact an Acura dealership for the most accurate and updated information.

Alternatively, some notable aftermarket remote start options for the MDX include Viper, Compustar, and Avital. Viper offers advanced features such as smartphone integration and GPS tracking, while Compustar is known for its reliability and range. Avital is another popular choice, offering cost-effective solutions with basic remote start functions. 

How to Activate the Acura MDX Remote Start?

There are several ways to start your Acura MDX remotely.

Via Key Fob

  1. First, to use the remote start on your MDX, ensure the car is locked. A green light will appear on the key fob if you’re in range.
  2. After confirming the vehicle is locked and the green light is on, press and hold the engine button on the key fob for a few seconds and then release it.
  3. A green light on the key fob confirms that the vehicle has started. If a red light appears instead, it indicates that the car did not start.
  4. The remote start is a factory feature, and each key fob is designed with a similar layout: engine hold button, lock, unlock, and trunk buttons. The most critical remote start feature is the top engine button.

The Acura key fob has a range up to a football field’s length, though obstacles like walls can affect it. It also features a color-coded light system (orange, green, red) for easy status indication.

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Another way to access remote start for your MDX is through the AcuraLink app. Follow the steps below:

  1. Open the AcuraLink App: First, open the AcuraLink app on your smartphone to access a range of remote commands for your vehicle.
  2. Access Remote Commands: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen within the app to view the available remote commands.
  3. View Vehicle Status: The app will visually represent your Acura MDX, listing all the remote commands you can use.
  4. Key Functions: These functions include starting and stopping your vehicle, locking and unlocking the doors, and a vehicle locator feature for added convenience.
  5. Start Your Vehicle: Use the ‘start your vehicle’ feature to remotely start your Acura MDX, getting it ready for your journey.
  6. Lock Your Vehicle: The ‘lock your vehicle’ function enhances security, allowing you to lock your Acura remotely.
  7. Locate Your Vehicle: It’s not exactly a remote start function, but if you’re in a crowded place and need to find your car, the ‘locate vehicle’ feature is beneficial.

For more detailed information and additional features of the AcuraLink app, you can visit AcuraLink.com. This website provides comprehensive guidance and support for all the app’s functionalities.

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