Ghost In The Machine? Why Your Remote Start Might Fail During The Next Indiana Polar Vortex

Freezing weather can leave your remote start useless when you need it most. Remote Start Not Working in Cold Weather is a common issue during polar vorticesMachine in places like Indiana and Ohio.

This article explains why cold temperatures affect your system and how to fix it fast. Stay warm this winter by reading more!

Key Takeaways

• Cold weather drains car and key fob batteries, causing remote start failures. Replace old batteries or test cold cranking amps (CCA) before winter.

• Open hoods, low fuel levels, and error codes like check engine lights block remote start. Fix these issues for smooth operation.

• Thick oil in freezing temperatures makes engines harder to start. Use thin, cold-weather-rated oil to improve performance during polar vortexes.

• Regular maintenance prevents problems in extreme cold. Check your battery health and test the remote start system early in the season.

• Tom Tepe Autocenter offers vehicles with heated seats, AWD/4WD, and reliable systems for harsh Indiana winters.

What is Remote Start and How Does It Work?

Remote start lets you start your car remotely to heat or cool it before driving. It works by sending unique radio signals from the key fob to your vehicle. Many systems can work up to 3,000 feet away.

Some systems include features like keyless entry and programmable runtimes for convenience. You may even control some remote starts with a smartphone app. Installation involves connecting modules and wiring correctly to ensure smooth operation.

Common Issues with Remote Start in Cold Weather

Remote start can act up when temperatures drop. Cold weather often highlights hidden problems in your car's system.

Low car battery voltage

Cold weather drains battery power quickly. A low car battery voltage often prevents remote start from working. Chrysler vehicles, like the 2015 Chrysler 300S, cancel remote starts below critical voltage levels, especially around 25°F or lower.

Unused cars sitting for days lose charge faster. Some sources say this happens after three idle days. Freezing temperatures worsen the problem; weak batteries that work fine in summer can fail completely in winter.

Jump-starting might help if the engine cranks but won’t fully start. Checking your battery's health is key to preventing these issues during an Indiana polar vortex.

Weak key fob battery

A weak key fob battery can stop your remote start from working. Cold weather slows down the chemical reactions inside the battery, weakening its performance. Your car might not detect a low-powered key fob, leaving you stuck on freezing mornings

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Replace the battery before winter to avoid issues. Most key fobs use CR2032 batteries, which are easy to switch out. Moisture can also damage your key fob and cause malfunctions. Warming it in your hand may help if it gets too cold temporarily.

If problems continue after replacing the battery, professional help may be needed at Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country to solve deeper issues.

Open the hood or improper car settings

Remote start will not work if the car’s hood is open. Always check that it is fully closed before activating the system. If doors, trunk, or tailgate are ajar, this can also block remote start.

Make sure your vehicle is in Park and turned off before trying to use remote start. Check the settings menu to confirm remote start is enabled on your system. Sensors can stop activation for reasons like low gas levels or a malfunctioning trunk sensor.

Address these issues first.

Now, let’s look at why cold weather impacts batteries so much!

System error codes or warning lights

Error codes and warning lights can stop your remote start from working. A check engine light or low tire pressure alert is enough to block the system. Parking lights may flash three times, signaling an error code.

Take time to address these issues first. For example, some experts says clearing an error code often restores remote start use in cold weather. Ignoring them wastes valuable troubleshooting time during freezing conditions.

Low tire pressure errors are common in places like Aurora, Indiana, or Cincinnati when temperatures plummet. Fixing these problems ensures a smooth winter driving experience.

Next, learn why cold weather affects how well your remote start functions.

Why Cold Weather Affects Remote Start

Cold weather puts extra strain on your car's systems. It impacts key components needed for remote start to function properly.

Battery performance decreases in freezing temperatures

Freezing weather slows the chemical reactions in a car battery. This reduces its ability to generate electricity. Even healthy batteries can struggle during an Indiana polar vortex or in Midwest winters like in Indianapolis and Aurora, Indiana.

Older batteries are more likely to fail when temperatures drop below freezing.

Low temperatures also cause voltage sag, especially for vehicles with advanced electronics. These systems need enough power to work correctly, but cold conditions make that harder.

Carrying a portable jump starter is smart since roadside help may take longer during extreme weather in Milan, Indiana, or Harrison, Ohio.

Oil thickens, making the engine harder to start

Cold weather causes engine oil to thicken. Thick oil creates more resistance, making it harder for the battery to crank the engine. This strain is especially tough during Indiana’s frigid winters or an intense polar vortex.

Using a cold-weather-rated engine oil can help reduce this problem. Thinner oil improves lubrication and circulates better in freezing temperatures. Remote start systems let engines warm up slowly, easing tension on vital parts like ignition coils and spark plugs.

Safety features disable remote start in extreme cold

Safety features in cars can turn off remote start during extreme cold. An open hood, low fuel level, or engine warning lights may block the system from working. These sensors ensure safety and prevent damage to your engine.

During a polar vortex, thick oil and reduced battery performance make starting harder. Some systems sense this strain and disable remote start to protect the car. Replacing weak batteries or using an engine block heater may help avoid these issues in Aurora, Indiana, or Milan, Indiana, winters.

Troubleshooting Remote Start Problems During a Polar Vortex

Frozen mornings can stress your remote start system. Simple checks and fixes can get it working again in no time.

Check and replace the car battery if needed

Cold weather can drain a car battery fast. Batteries over three years old may struggle in freezing temperatures. Weak batteries often fail during polar vortexes, stopping remote start features from working.

Test your battery's cold cranking amps (CCA) before winter hits. Replace it with one rated for extreme cold if needed. Tom Tepe Autocenter offers affordable replacements and checks to keep your Ford Explorer Sport or Chevy running smoothly in harsh Indiana winters.

Replace the key fob battery

The key fob battery directly affects the remote start. If it is weak, your Chevy or Ford might not respond well in cold Indiana winters or during a polar vortex. Replace the battery, usually a CR2032 coin cell, before temperatures drop to avoid failures.

Signs of a low-key fob battery include poor range and inconsistent starts. Keep the fob warm in winter to help its performance. For persistent issues after replacing the battery, get professional support from us at Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country.

Ensure the hood is fully closed, and the car is in Park

Remote start won’t work if the hood is open. Make sure it latches properly before trying to start your car. Even a slightly misaligned hood can block the system.

Always shift your vehicle into Park mode. Remote start systems will not activate unless this safety feature is met. Double-check both these steps to avoid frustration during cold Indiana mornings or Kentucky winters.

Address warning lights or error codes before starting

Ensure all warning lights or error codes are resolved before using remote start. A check engine light, low tire pressure, or other alerts can stop the system from working. If the parking lights flash three times and no start occurs, an error code is likely the cause.

Use a code reader to find and fix these errors quickly. Ignoring them wastes time and adds frustration during cold starts. Geoff Taylor highlights that fixing error codes improves reliability in freezing weather.

This step reduces future remote start issues in vehicles during Indiana's polar vortex conditions.

Tips to Prevent Remote Start Failures in Extreme Weather

Prepare your car before winter hits to avoid remote start issues. Regular checks and the right tools can make a big difference during freezing temperatures.

Use cold-weather-rated engine oil

Cold weather thickens engine oil, making it harder for your car to start. Use cold-weather-rated engine oil to improve lubrication in freezing temperatures. This type of oil reduces starter and battery strain, ensuring smoother startups.

Thinner oils work better during Indiana’s polar vortex and allow remote starts to perform efficiently. Check manufacturer recommendations for the correct winter-grade oil before the season begins.

An oil change before winter can help prevent issues with your Chevy or Explorer Sport Trac when temperatures drop below freezing.

Keep the fuel level above one-quarter

Low fuel can stop your remote start from working, especially in freezing weather. Keeping the fuel above one-quarter helps avoid these problems. It prevents the car from stalling or failing to start during cold mornings.

Higher fuel levels improve battery efficiency for cold starts. Low levels of risk frozen lines and poor engine performance. Use fuel additives to keep lines clear during a polar vortex.

Always aim to refill before reaching a quarter-tank mark for smooth operation.

Regularly inspect your battery health

Cold weather drains battery performance fast. Weak batteries struggle during Indiana's polar vortex, leading to remote start failures. Check your car battery regularly for signs of wear, like slow cranking or inconsistent starts.

Tom Tepe Autocenter offers affordable inspections and replacements. Key fob batteries also need regular checks to prevent surprises in freezing conditions. Timely inspections save time and reduce frustration during extreme weather events.

Test your remote start system before the cold season

Test your remote start system early to spot problems before temperatures drop. Check for error codes or warning lights and confirm all car settings are correct. Attempting a manual start can help ensure issues aren't limited to the remote feature.

Milder cold snaps offer a chance to monitor performance before harsher conditions hit Indiana or Harrison, Ohio.

Testing now avoids surprises during an intense Polar Vortex and ensures reliable starts in winter weather.

Prepare further by checking your battery health before extreme cold impacts performance.

Explore Our Inventory for Winter-Ready Vehicles

Find reliable cars ready to tackle harsh winters in our inventory and see how they can make your cold-weather drives easier.

New Inventory

The new Chevrolet models at Tom Tepe Autocenter are built for Midwest winters. Choose from options like the Silverado 1500, Equinox, Trailblazer, Traverse, Trax, Silverado 2500, or Silverado 3500 HD.

These vehicles come with advanced cold-weather features like heated seats and remote start systems. All-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) options improve handling in snow and ice.

Every vehicle includes the latest technology designed to handle Indiana’s harsh winters. Advanced climate controls keep you comfortable even during polar vortex conditions. Visit the dealership to explore these winter-ready models today.

Used Inventory

If you're searching for a reliable winter-ready vehicle on a budget, check out our used inventory. Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country offer inspected vehicles from trusted brands like Ford, Nissan, Toyota, and Ram.

Choose from affordable daily commuters, SUVs with AWD or 4WD for better traction in snow, and trucks built to take on Indiana’s harsh winters.

Every car is prepared with maintenance checks to ensure features like remote start are functional. Our team also inspects battery health so your car won't let you down during cold starts.

Browse online or visit us at one of our three locations today to find the perfect fit for winter driving needs!

Financing Your Next Winter-Ready Vehicle

Apply for financing today and take the first step toward owning a winter-ready vehicle.

Financing Application

Complete your financing application online or in person at Tom Tepe Autocenter. The process is quick and easy, helping you move closer to owning a winter-ready vehicle. Finance specialists are ready to assist with structuring payments for upgrades like Chevy remote start features.

Competitive rates are offered on both new and used cars. Customers with approved credit may even qualify for seasonal promotions or special deals. Save time by applying through the dealership website today!

Trade-In Form

Trade-in forms on our website make it easy to estimate your car’s value. You get a competitive and transparent offer based on market conditions and your vehicle's condition.

Trading in lowers the cost of upgrading to a winter-ready car. Pre-approval for trade-in credit is also available online, saving time at the dealership. Explore our inventory next!

Why Buy Your Next Winter-Ready Vehicle from Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country

Find reliable winter-ready vehicles and get expert support for all your cold-weather driving needs.

Reliable vehicles built to handle extreme weather

Vehicles with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive enhance control on icy roads. Heated seats, remote start, and climate control keep drivers comfortable in freezing temperatures. These features are crucial to manage Indiana’s polar vortex conditions.

Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country carefully inspect every vehicle for winter readiness. This includes checking batteries, remote start systems, and functionality during extreme cold weather.

Their cars are crafted to guarantee safety and dependability even during the harshest Midwest winters.

Excellent customer support for remote start troubleshooting

Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country offer expert technicians to fix remote start problems. The service team can handle error codes, warning lights, or battery issues with speed and care.

Customers get clear guidance for Chevy remote start troubleshooting or other cold-weather concerns.

Help is available for Indiana or Ohio drivers dealing with polar vortex challenges. Call the service department if your car won’t start remotely due to freezing temperatures. They work hard to ensure reliable fixes and keep you moving this winter.

Affordable maintenance and battery replacement services

Our service centers provide affordable battery checks and replacements to keep your car ready during freezing Indiana winters. We offer batteries with high cold cranking amps, ensuring strong performance in polar vortex conditions.

Transparent pricing gives you clear estimates for all repairs without hidden costs.

Routine services like oil changes and tire rotations ensure your vehicle stays winter-ready. Easy online or phone scheduling helps you plan maintenance at your convenience. Next, learn how our inventory offers vehicles built for harsh weather.

Conclusion

Cold weather can challenge your remote start, but preparation helps. Regular maintenance, strong batteries, and proper settings make a big difference. At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we’re here to help you find winter-ready vehicles built for Indiana’s tough winters.

Stop by to explore reliable options today! Stay warm and drive with confidence all season long.

FAQs

1) Why does my remote start stop working during an Indiana polar vortex?Cold weather hits the two things remote start needs most: battery power and clean sensor signals. When temps drop, your car battery voltage can dip, your key fob battery can weaken, and safety systems may block remote start if the vehicle detects something “not right” (like a warning light, low fuel, or an open hood). If you’re in the Milan, Aurora, or Harrison area and it’s suddenly failing, it’s usually one of those three causes.

2) What are the most common “quick fixes” I can check before I assume something is broken?Before you panic, check these fast:

• Make sure the hood is fully shut (even slightly popped can disable it).

• Confirm the vehicle is in Park and fully “off.”

• Look for a check engine light or other warning lights—many vehicles disable remote start when a light is on.

• Check your fuel level (some vehicles require more than 1/4 tank).

  
  

  If you’re still stuck, our service team at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country can help diagnose it quickly.

  
  

3) Can a weak key fob battery really cause remote start to fail—even if the doors still unlock?Yes. Unlocking doors requires less signal strength than remote start on many vehicles. In extreme cold, a weak fob battery may still unlock the car, but won’t reliably trigger remote start. If your range suddenly got shorter or it works only sometimes, replace the fob battery (most are inexpensive and easy). If it keeps happening, bring it by Tom Tepe, and we’ll help you narrow down whether it’s the fob, the vehicle battery, or the system itself.

4) Do warning lights (like check engine) really disable remote start?Often, yes. A remote start system is designed to protect your engine, so if the vehicle detects a condition that needs attention—like a check engine light—it may block remote start entirely. The good news: once the underlying issue is fixed, remote start usually comes right back. If you’re not sure why a light is on, Tom Tepe Autocenter can scan it and tell you what’s going on.

5) What’s the best way to prevent remote start problems before the next deep freeze?The best prevention is simple winter prep:

• Test your battery before the cold hits (especially if it’s 3+ years old).

• Replace the key fob battery ahead of winter.

• Keep fuel above 1/4 tank during cold snaps.

• Use the correct cold-weather engine oil recommended for your vehicle.

• Do a quick remote start test during the first cold week of the season.

  
  

  If you want a quick winter readiness check, schedule a visit with Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country—we’ll help you stay ready for the next polar vortex.

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Harry Tepe, Owner and Dealer Principal, Tom Tepe Autocenter

Harry Tepe is a seasoned automotive expert and the owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, a leading vehicle dealership serving the Midwest states of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. With a lifelong passion for automobiles.

Over the years, Harry worked his way up through various roles, absorbing valuable insights into sales management and dealership operations until he became the youngest GM Dealer Principal and owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, expanding the business to include multiple locations and a standalone reconditioning center.

Under Harry's leadership, Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country in Aurora and Harrison, Ohio, have grown exponentially, selling over 2000 vehicles annually and generating over $50 million in revenue. His active involvement in the industry is further evidenced by his participation in the NADA 20 Group and his influential role on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Auto Dealers Association, even serving as its President in 2016.

Harry's journey embodies the essence of expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. His insights and experiences are not just stories of personal growth and business success; they are testaments to his deep understanding of and commitment to the automotive industry.