Audi A4 Remote Start: The Full Rundown
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Regarding vehicle features, there’s no shortage of functions that are not considered essential but can be filed under the “nice-to-haves” category. One such feature is the remote start for cars.
Remote start systems in cars are not an essential feature, but they offer a level of convenience that can significantly enhance the driving experience. These systems allow you to start your vehicles without being in it, using a key fob or a mobile app. The ability to remotely start your engine and activate the climate system can make all the difference in making daily commutes more comfortable – especially during extreme weather conditions.
If you’re interested in an Audi A4, you might be wondering about its remote start function, including availability. So, today, we discuss the Audi A4 remote start feature and everything else you need to know.
The Remote Start and How It Works
Remote start is an electronic mechanism that enables starting a car’s engine without inserting a key or being inside the vehicle. Remote start is an electronic mechanism that allows a car’s engine to start without physical key insertion or being inside the vehicle.
One of its main benefits is that it allows you to warm up or cool down the car’s interior before entering, so you’ll feel comfortably warm or cool when you’re ready to go. In cold climates, remote start can defrost windows and mirrors, so your visibility isn’t compromised, and you can drive safely. Lastly, remote start saves time for drivers by allowing you to start the car beforehand, which is great if you’re short on time.
When the remote start button is pressed on the key fob or activated through an app, a signal is sent to the car’s remote start system. The system verifies the signal and performs several safety checks, such as ensuring the car is in ‘park’ and the hood and doors are closed. Once all safety checks are passed, the system starts the engine.
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Does the Audi A4 Have a Remote Start?
Unfortunately, the A4, or Audi for that matter, doesn’t have remote start in any official capacity. This is primarily due to legal regulations in Germany, where Audi is based; it is illegal in Germany to have a car running without a driver behind the wheel, preventing Audi from adding remote start to its vehicles as part of the manufacturing process.
Due to these legal constraints, it’s improbable that remote start will ever be a standard feature in Audi vehicles, despite the capability of their key fobs to support this technology.
What About the Audi Advanced Key?
Audi offers the “Audi Advanced Key” as an alternative to the Audi A4 remote start feature. However, the Audi Advanced Key does not allow for remote start in the traditional sense. Instead, it offers keyless entry and push-button start/stop capabilities. This system uses sensors in the car’s doors and trunk, activating when the key is within approximately 5 feet of the car.
With the Audi Advanced Key, you can unlock your car doors or start your vehicle without finding the keys in your purse or pockets. While it’s convenient since you don’t need key insertion to start the car, it does not allow you to start the vehicle from a distance like a standard remote start system.
Are There Aftermarket Options?
But all hope is not lost! For Audi A4 owners seeking remote start functionality, there are aftermarket options available. These systems can be installed by professional aftermarket installation companies or sometimes through Audi dealerships.
As such, choosing a reputable installer is crucial to ensure that the aftermarket system is compatible with the car’s electronic systems and does not interfere with the vehicle’s warranty or operational integrity.
If you are an Audi A4 owner and want to add remote start capability to your vehicle, the Compustar Audi Remote Start System is one of the most comprehensive solutions available. This system is compatible with Audi models manufactured in 2002 and later, including the A4. It offers keyless entry and remote start features that require vehicle-specific hardware and installation harnesses. You can control it using a long-range remote start with 2-way confirmation, the factory remote for close-range commands, or the DroneMobile app for unlimited range vehicle control and tracking.
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Pros and Cons of Aftermarket Remote Start Systems
Unfortunately, the only way to experience the Audi A4 remote system feature is to go down the route of aftermarket products, which has several benefits and drawbacks:
Pros
- Convenience: They allow for starting the car remotely, which is helpful in extreme weather to warm up or cool down the vehicle before entry.
- Increased Resale Value: Adding a quality remote start system can increase the car’s perceived value.
- Flexibility: A wide range of products is available, allowing for customization based on the user’s needs and budget.
- Additional Features: Many systems have keyless entry, car tracking, and smartphone integration features.
Cons
- Potential Warranty Issues: Installation of an aftermarket system might void certain aspects of the car’s warranty.
- Compatibility Issues: Not all systems are compatible with every vehicle model, and improper installation can cause issues.
- Complex Installation: Professional installation is often required, which adds to the cost and complexity.
- Security Risks: If not correctly installed, they can pose security risks, potentially making the car more vulnerable to theft.
- Reliability Concerns: Aftermarket systems may not be as reliable as factory-installed options, potentially leading to more frequent repairs or malfunctions.
To be fair, many of these drawbacks can be addressed by dealing with a reputable aftermarket accessory seller and reading your owner’s manual.
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Audi A4 Remote Start: Is It Worth It?
If you’re looking for a factory Audi A4 remote start, you’re out of luck. In order to have remote start on your A4, you’ll have to go down the aftermarket route and have a professional install the system. Sure, the Audi Advanced Key is available, but that’s not exactly what most people look for in remote start systems. A remote start system might be worth it if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions or simply want convenience.
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