Dodge Journey Remote Start: The Full Rundown
Source: Flickr
The Dodge Journey is a midsize crossover SUV manufactured from 2009 to 2020. Although it’s no longer in new car showrooms, thousands of Journeys are still on the road. Many Journey models came equipped with a handy remote start system, allowing drivers to start their vehicles from a distance with the push of a button or via a smartphone app. Keep reading as we explore everything you need to know about the Dodge Journey remote start feature. You learn about use, troubleshooting, programming, and other essentials.
Dodge Journey Remote Start: Key Fob
The Dodge Journey remote start system allows you to start the engine up to 80 feet away. It’s an extremely convenient feature on cold winter mornings or hot summer afternoons when you want the interior temperature to be more comfortable before entering the vehicle.
To use remote start, quickly press the remote start button (a curricular arrow surrounding an “x2” symbol) twice within five seconds and hold the button down on the second try. The engine will start, and the hazard lights will flash to confirm that the car is running. The climate control system will come on based on the current settings. Notably, the car must be locked, and the hood, cargo hatch, and all doors must be closed for the system to activate.
Your Journey will operate in remote start mode for 15 minutes before shutting down. The remote start system can be used twice (for a total of 30 minutes) before requiring the driver to reset the system by manually restarting the car.
Dodge Journey Remote Start: Uconnect App
The accompanying smartphone app can start newer Dodge Journeys equipped with the Uconnect system. You’ll want to ensure you’re enrolled in the Uconnect service (which requires a subscription fee), the Uconnect app is installed on the phone, and your phone has a cellular or Wi-Fi signal. Similar functionality is available via the Mopar Connect Owner website (moparownerconnect.com).
To start your Journey:
- Open the app and log in
- Locate the circular “engine start/stop” icon
- Press the icon (you may be asked to enter a PIN)
- The vehicle will start and provide an in-app confirmation
- Press the icon again if you want to turn off the engine (there may also be a cancel icon)
NOT JUST FOR CAR SHOPPING
The CoPilot app isn’t just for buying a car - our new CoPilot for Owning tool will help you keep track of recalls and gives you advice on which scheduled maintenance tasks are most important.
Dodge Journey Remote Start: Troubleshooting
While using the Dodge Journey remote start system is usually trouble-free, issues can arise that cause problems. Here’s what to be aware of:
- The remote start feature can be affected by walls or other obstructions. Signal interference can also be trouble. Try moving to a different position if the vehicle is not starting remotely.
- A weak key fob battery can also affect range. Change the battery if you find the remote start range decreases over time.
- Certain conditions will prevent remote start from working, including a check engine light, low fuel indicator, or an alarm signal. These issues may also let the car start but immediately shut down.
- Only press the remote start button twice within five seconds. Pressing too many times can confuse the system or cause the engine to turn off. Similarly, avoid sitting on the key fob, which can disrupt remote starting.
Dodge Journey Remote Start: Safety Tips
Successful use of your Dodge Journey’s remote start system requires following crucial safety precautions:
- Review the owner’s manual to get a complete understanding of how the remote start system works.
- Never remote start your vehicle when it’s in an enclosed space like a garage, which can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Remote start should only be used when the car is parked in an open, well-ventilated area.
- Ensure the parking brake is engaged before starting remotely to prevent accidental movement.
- Be aware of the surroundings before engaging remote start to avoid startling people or pets that might be nearby.
- Never leave the keys inside a running, unattended vehicle, even if you’ve engaged the remote start. This is an easy target for theft.
- Confirm that all the windows are up before activating remote start for extra security.
- Never remotely start a vehicle needing repair, as problems could worsen.
Using remote start is convenient, but following basic precautions keeps you, your vehicle, and the surroundings secure. Stay alert and be responsible when using this feature.
THE DODGE JOURNEY YEARS TO AVOID
If you’re going to spend money on a car, it should be a great one that will last. Read on to learn more about which Dodge Journey years to avoid and which one to look at as a potential future investment.
Programming Key Fobs
If you have an unprogrammed replacement key fob or want to add an additional fob, you can program it yourself in most Journey models. The process takes about five minutes and requires two working key fobs. Here are the basic programming steps:
- Make sure the new unprogrammed fob is within 1-3 feet of the vehicle.
- Insert an already programmed fob into the ignition cylinder and turn to the “on” position.
- Press the “lock” button on the programmed fob once.
- Within 10 seconds, press the “lock” button on the unprogrammed fob twice.
- Turn the ignition back to the “off” position and remove the programmed key fob.
- Test that the new fob works by pressing its lock and remote start buttons.
Consult the owner’s manual for your specific Journey year and trim for any variations on these instructions. If programming fails, wait 10 minutes before trying again. You may need to contact an automotive locksmith or a Dodge dealer for additional help.
Aftermarket Remote Start Systems
If your Dodge Journey didn’t come with remote start, you can still add this handy feature by installing an aftermarket system. Avoid the temptation to buy a cheap unit. Instead, stick with a name brand like Viper, Avital, or Compustar. You’ll be less likely to encounter installation problems or issues that can damage your car’s electrical system.
Prices for a quality system will run $200–$500 before installation costs. Unless you’re an experienced installer, spend the money to have a professional add the remote starter to your car.
Here are some features to look for:
- Extended range: some aftermarket systems can reach up to 1,500 feet
- Custom features: options include adjustable timers or smartphone app controls
- Warranty: Look for coverage that provides at least one year of protection on parts (the installer should also offer a warranty on their services)
An aftermarket solution can provide the convenience and comfort of remote start in your Dodge Journey without the factory option.
AI-ASSISTED CAR SHOPPING
Never miss out on the best car, never overpay, and never get taken advantage of. Download the CoPilot app to see the magic of AI-assisted car shopping.
Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You
The CoPilot car shopping app is the easiest way to buy a car. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area to make you a personalized list of the best car listings in your area.
Only looking for newer models? CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars. Only see cars five years or newer with low mileage — CoPilot Compare is the best way to find off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO cars.
The best part? CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. CoPilot doesn’t work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices — just the most info on the best cars. Check out our About Us page to see how CoPilot works.
