As a car owner, you know the feeling all too well. You’re running late for an important meeting and as you rush to start your car, you notice that pesky check engine light glowing on your dashboard. It’s enough to make you want to pull your hair out. And to make matters worse, your remote start isn’t working either.

You might be wondering how it’s even possible for a check engine light to prevent your remote start from working. After all, they seem like completely unrelated systems. But in reality, there are a few different issues that can cause this problem. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the potential issues that could be causing your remote start to fail, and offer some solutions for fixing them.

Issue #1: Your Car’s Computer is Throwing a Code

One of the main reasons that your remote start might not be working is because your car’s computer has thrown a code. This code is essentially an error message that’s letting you know that something is wrong with your car. When your check engine light is on, it usually means that your car’s computer has detected an issue with one of the systems or components in your vehicle.

There are hundreds of different codes that your car’s computer can throw, and each one corresponds to a specific issue. Some of the most common codes that can cause your remote start to fail include:

P0171: System too lean
P0172: System too rich
P0300: Random/multiple cylinder misfire
P0420: Catalyst system efficiency below threshold
P0430: Catalyst system efficiency below threshold (bank 2)

If your car’s computer is throwing one of these codes, it could be preventing your remote start from working. In order to fix the issue, you’ll need to figure out what’s causing the code to be thrown in the first place.

Issue #2: Your Car’s Fuel System is Out of Whack

Another common issue that can prevent your remote start from working is a problem with your car’s fuel system. If the fuel system is running too rich or too lean, it can cause your engine to misfire, which can prevent your remote start from working.

To fix this issue, you’ll need to figure out why your fuel system is out of balance. Some of the most common causes of a rich or lean fuel system include:

A faulty oxygen sensor
A clogged fuel filter
A malfunctioning fuel pump
A leaky fuel injector

If you’re having trouble figuring out what’s causing your fuel system to be out of balance, you might want to consider taking your car to a mechanic. They’ll have the tools and expertise to diagnose the problem and recommend a solution.

Issue #3: Your Car’s Ignition System is Failing

Another potential issue that could be preventing your remote start from working is a problem with your car’s ignition system. If the ignition system is failing, it could be preventing your engine from starting.

There are a few different components that make up your car’s ignition system, including the spark plugs, ignition coils, and ignition control module. If any of these components are failing, it could be preventing your engine from starting.

To fix this issue, you’ll need to diagnose which component is causing the problem. This might require the help of a mechanic, as they’ll have the tools and expertise to properly diagnose the issue.

Issue #4: Your Remote Start System is Failing

While it might not be the most common cause of the problem, it’s also possible that your remote start system itself is failing. If this is the case, you’ll need to troubleshoot your remote start system to figure out what’s causing the issue.

Some of the most common issues that can cause your remote start system to fail include:

A faulty remote start module
A malfunctioning antenna
A dead battery in your remote
Interference from other electronic devices

To fix these issues, you might need to replace a faulty component, replace the battery in your remote, or move your car further away from other electronic devices.

Issue #5: Your Car’s Security System is Activated

Finally, it’s worth noting that if your car’s security system is activated, it could be preventing your remote start from working. Some security systems are designed to prevent the engine from starting if they detect any tampering or unauthorized attempts to start the car.

To fix this issue, you’ll need to disarm your car’s security system. Depending on the make and model of your car, this might involve using a special key fob or entering a code into the car’s computer. If you’re having trouble disarming your security system, you might want to consult your owner’s manual or contact a mechanic for assistance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if your remote start isn’t working and you have a check engine light on, there are a few different issues that could be causing the problem. From a faulty computer code to a problem with your fuel system or ignition system, there are many potential issues that could be preventing your remote start from working. By identifying the root cause of the problem, you can take the necessary steps to fix it and get your remote start working again.