Audi Q3 Remote Start: The Full Rundown

in Model Info and Features
White Audi Q3

Source: Flickr

Remote starts in cars are a game-changer, especially when the weather is extreme. On cold mornings, it’s nice to start your car from the warmth of your home, knowing you’ll step into a warm, defrosted vehicle. No more shivering while waiting for the heat to kick in or scraping ice off the windshield. And in hot weather, it’s a relief to cool down the car before getting in, avoiding that initial blast of hot air. It’s a simple feature, but it makes your daily commute more comfortable, regardless of season.

Having said that, if you’re wondering if the Audi Q3 has a remote start feature, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we have a comprehensive rundown of the Audi Q3 remote start. Does the Q3 have this feature available? Which model years have remote starts? Keep reading to learn more.

What is Remote Start, and How Does It Work?

Remote start is a modern automotive technology that offers the convenience of starting your car from a distance using a remote control, often integrated into your key fob. This feature is incredibly beneficial in extreme weather conditions, allowing you to warm up your car in winter or cool it down in summer before you even get in. It sends a radio signal from your remote to a receiver in the vehicle. Upon receiving and authenticating this signal, the car’s onboard computer initiates the engine start process.

To ensure your safety and security, the system is designed to keep your vehicle locked even when the engine is running remotely. Additionally, most remote start systems are equipped with an automatic shut-off feature. If the car isn’t accessed within a certain period, usually about 10 minutes, the engine turns off automatically. This technology adds to your comfort and ensures that your vehicle remains safe and secure.


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How remote start systems work revolves around sophisticated electronic communication. The key fob transmits an encrypted signal, which is received by the control module installed in the vehicle. Upon successful signal authentication, the control module activates the ignition system without inserting the physical key. Advanced systems may even allow control through smartphone applications, providing additional functionalities like GPS tracking and alerts.

Does The Audi Q3 Have a Remote Start?

Unfortunately, the Audi Q3 does not have a remote start feature as of the latest information. This applies across all model years and trims of the Q3. The vehicle cannot be started remotely using a key fob or a smartphone app as a built-in feature from Audi.

The German regulations influencing Audi’s decision not to include factory-installed remote start features are primarily related to environmental and safety concerns. In Germany, operating a vehicle without a driver present is illegal, including having a car running unattended. This law is intended to reduce unnecessary emissions and the risk of theft or misuse of unattended vehicles. Due to these regulations, Audi, along with other German car manufacturers, typically do not offer remote start systems as standard features in their vehicles.

To learn more about Audi remote starts (or lack thereof), please read our previous guide.

What About Aftermarket Options?

Thankfully, owners have access to aftermarket products for Audi Q3 remote start, including:

  1. 12Volt.Solutions Remote Start Kit: Specifically designed for 2019-2022 Audi Q3 models with push-button start. This kit is almost entirely plug-and-play and includes options for standard kits, long-range remotes, and app modules. The operation is simple, requiring three presses of the lock button on the OEM key FOB to start and stop the vehicle. Prices range from $599.99 for the standard kit to $919.99 for the most comprehensive package. You can find more information on their website.
  2. Compustar Remote Start System: This system is compatible with various Audi models, including the Q3, and adds remote start along with keyless entry features. It requires specific hardware and installation harnesses tailored to your vehicle. Compustar provides long-range remote start and smartphone control options with their DroneMobile app. For detailed information on their products and to find a dealer, visit Compustar’s website.
  3. Fortin EVO All-In-One Remote Starter Kit: Offered by CARiD.com, the Fortin EVO is a 1-way all-in-one remote starter kit with an EVO-ONE module. This system is part of the EVO 4 SERIES and is based on an FM 433 MHz communication platform. It’s priced at $189.99. More information is available on CARiD’s website.

When considering aftermarket options for Audi Q3 remote start, it’s essential to check their compatibility with your vehicle model and opt for professional installation.


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What is the Audi Advanced Key?

The Audi Advanced Key system is a feature in Audi vehicles, including the Q3, that offers convenience and enhanced functionality but does not include a traditional remote start feature. This system allows keyless entry and push-button start/stop capabilities, utilizing proximity sensors in the vehicle’s doors and trunk. When you approach the car with the key, these sensors activate, allowing you to unlock and start the vehicle without needing to handle the key physically.

The key features of the Audi Advanced Key system include:

  1. Keyless Entry and Push-Button Start/Stop: This allows you to unlock the vehicle and start or stop the engine without using a traditional key. The system recognizes when the key is within proximity and enables these functions.
  2. Convenience and Comfort: The system offers convenience, mainly when your hands are full, as you don’t need to fumble for keys. It also enhances the comfort of entering and starting the vehicle, especially in adverse weather conditions.
  3. Saved Driver Profiles: Audi Advanced Key can support saved driver profiles that automatically adjust seat and mirror settings to pre-set preferences when the key is detected.

Please remember that the Audi Advanced Key provides several benefits but doesn’t allow you to start the vehicle remotely from a distance. However, some newer models of the Audi Q3 (beginning from 2022) have remote start capabilities. Audi Q3 remote start can be added through aftermarket installations for older models.


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It’s also worth mentioning that the myAudi app offers remote car access management, which includes features like unlocking the vehicle from a smartphone. However, this does not equate to a full remote start functionality but adds to the convenience of Audi vehicles.



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