The idea that high-end vehicles do not have remote start is a common misunderstanding. In fact, most modern luxury cars do include remote start, usually built into their high-tech systems and smartphone apps. The confusion often comes from how discreetly it’s integrated, how the feature has changed over time, and some outdated views from older car models.
How Remote Start Has Evolved in High-End vs. Mainstream Cars
Remote start used to be a popular add-on or basic feature in regular cars, especially in cold regions. It usually worked with a separate button on the key fob to start the engine from a distance. In luxury cars, the focus was more on features like keyless entry, push-button start, and smart climate control that kicked in automatically when the driver got in. So, a direct remote start button wasn’t always highlighted or made obvious in premium vehicles.
Smart Remote Start Features in Modern Luxury Cars
As car technology has improved—especially with connected car apps—remote start in luxury vehicles has become smarter and more advanced. Instead of just starting the engine, it’s now part of a full-featured system you can control from your smartphone. With it, you can:
- Pre-condition the cabin: Set the temperature, turn on heating or cooling, and even activate heated or ventilated seats before getting in—great for hot summers or freezing winters.
- Monitor vehicle status: See fuel level, tire pressure, and check if the doors are locked—all from your phone.
- Locate your car: Handy in big parking lots or if your car is ever lost or stolen.
- Schedule starts: Set a specific time each day for your car to start and get the cabin ready.
Luxury Brands Now Commonly Offer Remote Start
Top luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Lexus, and Cadillac now include remote start as a standard or optional feature. Often, it’s part of their connected service apps like BMW ConnectedDrive or Mercedes me connect. While you may need to pay a subscription after a free trial, these apps give you way more control than a simple key fob—like checking your car’s status, setting the temperature, and more—all from your phone.
Why People Think Luxury Cars Don’t Have Remote Start
Some people still believe luxury cars don’t come with remote start because of how complex these vehicles are. Aftermarket remote start systems can struggle with high-end cars, as they need to work around advanced security and immobilizer systems. This can cause problems, making it seem like remote start isn’t supported. In reality, luxury brands do offer remote start—but it’s built in from the factory in a smarter, more seamless way, designed to work perfectly with the car’s tech.
Why Factory Remote Start Is Better in Luxury Cars
Luxury car makers focus on giving owners a smooth, all-in-one experience. Their remote start systems are built to work perfectly with the car’s other features—like security, climate control, diagnostics, and even the entertainment system. Aftermarket options can’t always match this level of integration. So, if a luxury car doesn’t have factory remote start, it’s usually a thoughtful choice, often tied to security or system compatibility.
Remote Start in 2025: A Standard in Most Luxury Cars
In some regions or specific models, certain features like remote start might not be highlighted. But overall in 2025, most luxury cars do come with remote start—usually as part of a larger set of connected services you access through a smartphone app, not just a button on the key fob. The idea that high-end cars don’t have it is mostly outdated and comes from old tech standards or simple confusion about how things work today.