Volkswagen Tiguan Remote Start: The Full Rundown

in Model Info and Features
Volkswagen Tiguan in a showroom

Source: Pixabay

Remote starts in vehicles have revolutionized how we commute by offering convenience and efficiency in numerous everyday situations. For instance, during chilly winter mornings, instead of enduring the freezing weather to warm up your car, a remote start allows you to do it from the comfort of your home, ensuring your vehicle is cozy and defrosted for your commute. Similarly, during the sweltering summer heat, a remote start cools your car before you step in, providing immediate relief from the oppressive heat.

This feature saves valuable time for those with busy schedules, streamlining your day. It’s not just about comfort; running the engine for a few minutes can improve your vehicle’s performance and longevity in extreme temperatures.

Are you wondering if there’s a Volkswagen Tiguan remote start? Today, we talk about everything you need to know about the Volkswagen Tiguan remote start and this feature in general.

What is the Remote Start Feature?

Remote start is a modern car feature that allows drivers to start their vehicle’s engine from a distance using a key fob or a smartphone app. This technology is instrumental in preparing the car’s interior to a comfortable temperature before the driver enters.

On a cold day, activating the remote start can warm up the car, defrost the windows, and heat the seats. Conversely, it cools the interior during hot weather, providing a refreshing environment. The system sends a radio signal from the remote to the car, starting the engine and activating preset climate controls. Apart from comfort during extreme weather, remote start can also benefit the car’s engine, allowing it to warm up and circulate oil before driving. 

Additionally, most systems include safety features that ensure the car remains locked and secure while running, and the engine will automatically shut off if the car isn’t accessed after a set period.


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Does the Volkswagen Tiguan Have a Remote Start?

Yes, many newer models of the Volkswagen Tiguan come equipped with a remote start feature. This feature allows you to start the engine and pre-condition the interior temperature from a distance, which is particularly useful in extreme weather conditions.

However, the availability of this feature can vary based on the specific model year and trim level of the Tiguan. It’s often included in higher trim levels or available as part of a package. For example, the Remote Start feature is available to 2023 Tiguan owners starting from the SE trim. To confirm whether a specific Tiguan model has a remote start, it’s best to check the vehicle’s specifications or consult with a Volkswagen dealer.

How Does the Volkswagen Tiguan Remote Start Work?

Depending on your Tiguan’s model year, your remote start can be activated in two methods:

Via Mobile App

This video provides a quick overview of how to use the myVW Remote Start feature using the mobile app:

  1. Using the VW Mobile App: The remote start feature can be activated using the VW mobile app. This is particularly useful for starting your vehicle remotely and automatically setting the climate control to a comfortable temperature.
  2. Pairing Your Phone: To use the remote start, your phone must be paired with the vehicle. If it wasn’t paired during the initial download of the MyVW mobile app, you can do it afterward.
  3. Activating Remote Start: Once your phone is paired, you can enable the remote start feature. The video demonstrates how to register and activate this feature within the app.
  4. Starting the Vehicle: After using the remote start, you must step on the brake pedal and press the engine start button before you can drive the vehicle.

Again, the VW Mobile App Remote Start is only available for newer Tiguans. At the time of delivery, the vehicle specialist helps you sync your phone with your Volkswagen Tiguan and sets up the VW Car-Net app


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Via Key Fob

For older Tiguan models, remote start activation is done with the good old key fob. In general, the remote start feature can be activated with the following steps:

  1. Ensure the Vehicle is Locked: Before you attempt to use the remote start, make sure that your vehicle is locked.
  2. Activate the Engine: Press the remote start button on your key fob twice. This action will start the engine from outside the vehicle.
  3. To Turn Off the Engine: If the remote start has been activated and you wish to turn it off, simply press the remote start button on the key fob once again.

Alternatively, adding an aftermarket remote start feature to older Volkswagen Tiguan models is feasible with the Remote Start Kit (Part Number: 3CN065760). The kit includes instructions, a plug-in module, and a unique activation code. Refer to the Owner’s Manual for details and warnings about the keyless ignition feature. Also, This remote start kit is not suitable for vehicles with manual transmissions. It’s designed for automatic transmission models and fits various Volkswagen models, including the Tiguan.

What are the Downsides to the Volkswagen Tiguan Remote Start?

Like any automotive technology, the remote start feature in the Volkswagen Tiguan comes with its own set of downsides or limitations.

  • Increased Fuel Consumption: Using remote start, especially for extended periods, can lead to increased fuel consumption. However, modern engines are pretty efficient, and the amount of fuel used during the short period typically involved in remote starting (just a few minutes to warm up or cool down the car) is relatively small.
  • Environmental Concerns: Idling the engine contributes to emissions. This might be a significant concern in areas with strict environmental regulations or for those concerned about their carbon footprint. Refer to EPA.gov for local and state idling laws.
  • Security Risks: While modern remote start systems are designed with security in mind, there’s always a slight risk associated with starting your car remotely. If not used carefully, it could potentially be exploited by unauthorized individuals.

Overall, the Volkswagen Tiguan Remote Start feature can be convenient, especially during extreme weather conditions, and saves you a lot of time and comfort. Just make sure you know about your local and state idling laws to be in the clear.


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