GMC Acadia Remote Start: The Full Rundown

in Model Info and Features
Black GMC Acadia parked on a sidewalk

Source: Flickr

Starting your GMC Acadia with just the press of a button, regardless of where you are, isn’t just a luxury – depending on your location, it can be a game changer. The remote start feature on the GMC Acadia offers unparalleled convenience and comfort, particularly in extreme weather conditions.

Picture a chilly winter dawn when the idea of entering a frigid vehicle fills you with dread. The remote start feature allows you to start your car’s engine effortlessly without leaving your house’s cozy interior. As the vehicle starts, its heating system kicks in, warming up the cabin and melting away the frost on the windows. When you leave, your Acadia is warm, defrosted, and ready to drive.

In today’s guide, we delve into everything you need to know about the GMC Acadia remote start system. Whether you’re warming up your car on a frosty morning or cooling it down on a scorching summer day, we’ve got the full rundown for you.

What Makes Remote Start a Great Feature?

Remote start is a feature that allows a vehicle to be started from a distance using a remote control, typically found on the vehicle’s key fob. This technology offers a range of benefits:

  • Comfort and Convenience: The primary advantage of remote start is the ability to precondition the vehicle’s interior to a comfortable temperature before entering. In winter, it can warm up the car and defrost the windows, while in summer, it can cool the interior, making it more comfortable to drive off immediately.
  • Safety: In colder climates, remote start helps defrost and de-ice the windows and mirrors, enhancing visibility and safety. Driving with clear windows is safer than navigating with a partially cleared view.
  • Engine Care: Using remote start in extreme temperatures can be beneficial for your engine. It allows the engine to warm up gradually, which can improve the engine’s longevity, especially in cold weather.
  • Security: Modern remote start systems are designed with security in mind. The vehicle remains locked while running, and the engine will typically shut off if someone attempts to drive away without the key.
  • Time-Saving: It saves time, especially on busy mornings. You can start your car as you’re getting ready, so it’s ready to go when you are.

Remote start systems may also come with additional features, such as the ability to start the vehicle through a smartphone app, which extends the range and flexibility of the feature beyond the traditional key fob. 

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GMC Acadia Remote Start: Which Model Has It?

The GMC Acadia has a remote start feature available in models from the 2010 model year onwards. To activate the remote start, you can use the key fob by pressing the lock button followed by pressing and holding the remote start button for at least four seconds. This feature is handy for starting your vehicle from a distance.

Meanwhile, for those preferring to use a mobile device, the GMC Acadia can be started remotely via an Apple or Android device. This requires a monthly subscription to GM’s OnStar Remote Access Plan, which costs about $15. Once subscribed, you can use the “myGMC” app to add your Acadia and utilize the remote start feature.

When it comes to specific Acadia model years with remote start, availability can vary based on the trim and optional package. For instance, for the 2023 GMC Acadia:

  • SLE: The base SLE trim of the 2023 GMC Acadia can be equipped with a remote engine start by opting for the Driver Convenience Package. This package costs $1,750 and includes an eight-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate​​.
  • SLT: The SLT trim offers the option to add the Elevation Edition package, which includes larger 20-inch alloy wheels and blacked-out exterior accents at $1,495. Additionally, the SLT trim may include remote start as part of one of its packages.
  • AT4 Trim: This trim primarily focuses on cosmetic enhancements for a more rugged appearance. Like the SLT, it can also include some of the Denali’s features, such as remote start, via optional packages like the Technology Package.
  • Denali: The optional Denali Technology Package, priced at $1,795, further enhances this trim with an HD surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, and a rearview camera mirror, with remote start likely included among these high-end amenities.

For earlier model years, GMC Acadias, from 2010 onwards, generally feature remote start capabilities.

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How Does the GMC Acadia Remote Start Work?

You can start your GMC Acadia remotely using two methods.

Via Key Fob

To remotely start the GMC Acadia using the key fob, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure you have a remote with a symbol that looks like an almost complete circle with an arrow. This indicates that your vehicle is equipped with the remote start feature.
  2. Press the lock button on the remote. You might need to press it twice until you hear a small honk, confirming the vehicle is locked.
  3. Press and hold down the remote start button. You will see the lights flash once, and then you should hear the vehicle start.
  4. To enter the vehicle, press the unlock button on the remote.
  5. Once inside the vehicle, you’ll notice that the radio and other systems are off. To activate them and be able to drive, simply press the start button in the vehicle once.
  6. The vehicle will continue running and is now ready to be driven.

Via Mobile App

  1. Subscribe to OnStar Remote Access Plan: This plan is required for remote start functionality and costs about $15 monthly.
  2. Download and Launch the myGMC App: Download the “myGMC” app from the App Store or Google Play on your smartphone.
  3. Sign in to Your GMC Owner Center Account: Open the app and sign in to your GMC Owner Center account. If you don’t have an account, sign up for a new one.
  4. Accept User Terms and Privacy Statement: Follow the prompts to accept the terms and privacy statement.
  5. Add Your Acadia to the App: Add your GMC Acadia in the myGMC app by entering your vehicle’s VIN.

Once these steps are completed, you can start your Acadia remotely using the app.

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