Your Toyota Remote Engine Start is About to Go Away: What You Can Do About It!

[@Toyotajeff]

Here is my follow-up story with my thoughts on remote engine start disappearing. I hope you click and read :) www.torquenews.com/6626/your-free-toyota-remote-start-could-disappear-soon-here-what-you-need-know

[@fenix310]

At the beginning of this month my app was frozen for 3 weeks do I get a refund for that month?

[@debrittojoseph]

Very concerning when you pay all that money for the car and to add a cost to it is ridiculous .

[@pimpyoda1579]

Ikr greedy move

[@_Niksta_]

Especially with the mark ups

[@andrewwaters3038]

Especially when it's already installed on the car......definitely not a good image for Toyota!! Starting the car from the app from ANYWHERE I could understand a few but not from the installed key fob standing next to the car...

[@alvinsimba734]

@@andrewwaters3038 my 2020 le from canada never came with the remote start but it can be installed by a local reputable company with a lifetime warranty. It only cost $200 for the whole thing and I only use mine in winter, summer time I don't even use it.

[@Lexusgx550]

Toyota trying charge monthly fee for remote start is greedy move will cost them customers leaving. For another brands.

[@Toyotajeff]

Good point....other brands already charge for extra features. It will be interesting to see what happens here

[@Lexusgx550]

@@Toyotajeff I believe you. I only drive Toyota. And want them to be number one always.

[@ssclassof2000]

Ford has made it free even on the XL fleet models. There is some kind of kickback for the data collection. The dealer wants everyone to sign up for it so I'm assuming they sell the data when you share the connection.

[@eddiew.6485]

@@Toyotajeff none charge for remote start……please expand!

[@alvinsimba734]

@@Toyotajeff hey man I like your reviews and as a Canadian, the remote starter can be installed by a local reputable company that deals with electronics with lifetime warranty for around $200 for basic which normally comes with 2 remote starters for 2 different keys. I only use mine in winter time but by summer I don't use it.

[@brianhall6349]

I 100% understand the service for the phone app. They have no right to limit the key fob starting however. This might effect future decisions about what brand vehicles I buy.

[@Boobtube.]

Exactly, so jeff... what you are saying is, if someone paid for the option to have remote start when they purchased it, they have to pay "again" to use it?? Even though they paid extra to get the option when they bought it new. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[@JKRBW]

Same. We've been following along, excitedly awaiting a 2022 Sienna. This is enough for us to scrap that plan. The key fob doesn't have to communicate with anything other than the vehicle, there's no good reason to charge money for it. I had an aftermarket remote start with an app on a 2011 Subaru and even that didn't require a monthly fee.

[@everydayfun9531]

It's Gonna Affect Toyota's Sales Pretty Bad...

[@Boobtube.]

@@everydayfun9531 yep, corporate stupidity can and does kill companies

[@alvinsimba734]

@@JKRBW just go with aftermarket and it's way cheaper than dealers all day anyways. This shouldn't affect your decision making. I paid the aftermarket remote for 2020 Corolla LE for around $200 which came with 2 remote starters for 2 key fobs and they work like charm.

[@ronripley9197]

I bought a 2021 RAV4 XLE Premium at the end of April 2021. Salesman never mentioned anything about remote start or remote connect. I learned about the remote start feature on this channel. Once the free 3 year trial is over, I'll walk to the vehicle, start it up and drive away, the same thing I've done for the last 50 years. Toyota won't be getting an extra penny out of me!

[@duncanmacisaac3749]

Press 'lock' twice fast, (lights will flash), then hold down 'lock' a 3rd time till it starts!

[@kevyNova123]

@@duncanmacisaac3749 Not after his trial ends. In Canada is a 1 year trial.

[@troyvo8069]

It’s only useful to warm up your car in areas where it snows or gets really cold really. Oh; and turning on the ac during super hot summer. Lol

[@alvinsimba734]

Ron RIPLEY you can find a local reputable company that can install remote starter with a lifetime warranty. I only use mine in winter time to warm my car before I leave for work and by summer time I won't use it as I won't need it.

[@user-tb7rn1il3q]

@@troyvo8069 You have to drive the car to warm it up anyway. It won’t warm up much at Idle. These newer cars are super efficient.

[@Azrael8]

This shouldn't be a subscription service.

[@ddiesicraft]

I can understand charging to use the app features - But charging to use the key fob? That doesn’t make sense to me. Would be much more reasonable to allow usage of the key fob start as a feature purchased with the vehicle, while then requiring a subscription for the additional app features.

[@igeekone]

True, that's like paying to use your Bluetooth headphones. It's a local connection. No way they can justify charging monthly to use a local connection between the car and fob. That does not use cell towers!

[@alvinsimba734]

You can always get a remote starter installed from a local reputable company for a lifetime with free fob replacement. We do that here in Canada and don't necessarily have to deal with a dealer. Options are open and also its way cheaper too

[@GregMcMillan]

@@igeekone I posted a comment above about this. The fob connects to the car, the car connects to the cell towers. There's no remote starter in the car like the older models.

[@igeekone]

@@GregMcMillan Why would the car need to talk to Toyota for a remote start from the fob. Makes zero sense to phone home for a remote start from the fob.

[@GregMcMillan]

@@igeekone because the car has no remote starter installed for the fob to work with. The fob can’t talk to the Connected Services server, but the car’s electronics can via the antenna on the roof. The signal from Connected Services tells the car’s electronics to start the engine. I don’t necessarily agree with the whole thing. I think Toyota should have kept it the way it was but it appears they’re looking for a revenue stream.

[@ralphfurley123]

Jeff, thank you very much for clarifying the Toyota policy regarding Remote Connect! I am currently on the market for a new vehicle and a Toyota was seriously in consideration! However, charging a subscription service for Remote Start is ridiculous! Its just plain greed to me! Therefore, I’ve eliminated Toyota from consideration! ☮️🖖🏽

[@alvinsimba734]

Ralph you can get the remote starter installed by local reputable company for much cheaper and myself I did that on.my 2020 corolla LE which cane with the key ignition and for $200 I got 2 remote starters for 2 key fobs I got and only use 1 and only during winter and by summer u won't even use it. My point is the dealer is not the answer to all your wants. Remember that.

[@ralphfurley123]

@@alvinsimba734 thanks for the info bro! I’ll have to look into that! ☮️🖖🏽

[@kitrocks8058]

@@alvinsimba734 The remote start is besides the point, yes you can pay to have it added, but the point is that you shouldn’t have to especially with how much Toyota charges for pretty basic and plain cars in the first place. The not supporting the brand is meant as a way to hopefully have them see their errors and atone for their bullshit. Get a honda ( which is comparable in quality) get remote start on the key and don’t pay for it and save yourself 200-300 dollars. You can get a Hyundai, they might not be exactly on the same level as Toyota, but you will get more features and pay less for the car itself, and you will get the remote start features for free on the key, as well as a phone subscription free for 3 years and not just the free key remote for 3 years. Can you go spend money and get what you want sure, but the fact is that we cannot support companies treating their customers this way and being allowed to be this greedy.

[@alvinsimba734]

@@kitrocks8058 I agree and when I bought my 2020 corolla LE, the remote starter was not an option at the time and the only reason I even bought the car was because they gave me a much better deal compared to honda that day. When I picked the LE I just wanted something that I know I will keep for the next 10 or so years before I jump into a van or a large SUV afterwards due to different needs. So with all my vehicles I paid extra for a remote starter which I only use when it's freezing cold during winter but then put it away by summer time as I see no use for it.

[@yanblank1442]

I agree it’s a bunch of BS and ridiculous to charge subscription. Don’t buy Toyota

[@farzanajalil8264]

It’s like Toyota is not charging enough money already on cars. They’ll loose business

[@Nostromo_1]

Doubt it.

[@samochoa6733]

$8 dollars don't sound like a lot. But most like that price is going to go up at one point.

[@CeramicMuffin16]

Lose**

[@Jeff-yf8pf]

I absolutely refuse to pay for any subscriptions on a car EVER especially remote start. What's next pay to use heated seats. I WILL find a way around it

[@rsxfreak79]

Bmw charges $80/yr just to use Apple CarPlay. 😂

[@saxman112]

@@rsxfreak79 Not anymore, they backed out of that

[@megadavesworld4238]

Just leased my first Toyota 3 weeks ago (Highlander), I really like it but when the lease is up, I’ll definitely be moving on. This has really put a sour taste in my mouth and I find it hard to talk proudly about it anymore.

[@megadavesworld4238]

@@dejan5545 yup, that did it. That and the fantastic app that no one seems to know how to fix. Like I said , I like the car. But this is such a silly, cheap, money grab that irks their customers. Eight bucks a month to use your car starter🙄, what a joke.

[@kevyNova123]

@@dejan5545 I agree with MegaDave's World, this is the last straw, the crappy infotainment screen and software, cheap paint that scratches too easy, my gas tank had to be replaced, dim old incandencent interior lighting on a 2020, my first and last toyota.

[@JKRBW]

@@kevyNova123 the gas tank had to be replaced on a 2020 vehicle? (Not saying I don't believe you, just wondering what the story is there.)

[@tracybrannan8326]

I’ve been driving my Corolla since 2013 and it’s never left me on the side of road and it’s just over 200k miles and is still running without a miss or leak quietly like a new car. Will never buy any other make. Brakes and air conditioning only replaced so far. Not even a hose.

[@ichigouzumaki324]

This is wrong by Toyota to charge extra for a feature already in the car and pocket. Like so many have mention, if it's to use the app yes they can charge a fee, but not use the keyfob.

[@CH-kl9qd]

Paying for remote start is the dumbest shit of all time

[@yodaddy000]

Thank god i saw this video i was gonna get the limited because of the remote start feature but now that i know that you need a subscription im just gonna skip that feature and save some money and go with a lower trim level

[@jwsmitty80]

You’re still going to have remote start from FOB for 3 years with audio plus, 10 years with premium audio. The phone app remote connect trial…..1 year.

[@yodaddy000]

@@jwsmitty80 that's nice to know

[@janiswilliams2766]

@@jwsmitty80 does that mean if you bought the plus package (I got and XLE plus) it’s longer than 1 year?

[@r.d.9399]

I won't buy a Toyota due to this.

[@jwsmitty80]

@@janiswilliams2766 From the FOB, yes….it should be unless I’m missing something here. The remote connect feature from the phone is the 1 year trial. I’m waiting for Jeff to reply to me cause this vid makes me wonder if there’s something I’m not aware of.

[@Glenn.Cooper]

Thanks for sharing this story. I have to say: While I generally love Toyota, this policy - that your remote start on the key fob is a subscription service - is disgusting to me, and reduces my opinion of Toyota a ton. I would expect the subscription service on the app - okay. But on the FOB that communicates directly with the car? No way!!!

[@alvinsimba734]

You can always install with a reputable company with lifetime warranty and it's way cheaper than dealer anyway.

[@user-tb7rn1il3q]

Why should I as a fellow Toyota car owner and stockholder subsidize this service for you? Toyota is not a charity.

[@05gauravs]

@@user-tb7rn1il3q If like people have mentioned here that there are 3rd party companies providing the service for 200 bucks, it does not seem that you or any other toyota owner is subsidizing that service from keyfob only for my 36k Rav4 Hybrid.

[@yanblank1442]

@@user-tb7rn1il3q greed

[@mr_red13]

Subscription? Haha nopes for me!

[@SR-nz7ld]

Jeff, I enjoy your videos, your enthusiasm and your knowledge. But your salesmanship is on full display here. These vehicles were purchased with autostart. The owners of the vehciles own the technology capable of autostarting these vehciles. And Toyota has decided to rent owners a technology they already have sitting in their driveway. This is predatory, and wrong. Painting it as "another subscription" is wrong. Paying a subscription for remote auto start app, through your phone is fine. But putting a financial barrier between your key fob and vehicle has nothing to do with the app, and again, is incredibly predatory. Shame on you for defending this as "just another thing to add to the families budget". It was already added to the families budget, and paid for when the car, fob and technology was purchased. Shame on you

[@Toyotajeff]

Thanks for your comments and opinions S R! I appreciate you. I hope you consider watching the video again sometime. I felt like I showed empathy and understanding. I don’t think it’s right but it’s always been listed by Toyota as a free trial with a subscription after. I suspected a few years ago this would be a problem when people started running out of their trials but I didn’t know how it would resolve itself. I appreciate your opinion but I’m not sure I came off as uncaring or covering for Toyota. I’m just stating the facts and showing people how it is used

[@Toyotajeff]

And actually I just read your comment about me fluffing it off as if it’s just another thing to add to a budget. I was saying that with all of these other things you have going that people are going to have to make a choice and if they can afford that or not. I even called it sucky lol. I respectfully disagree with you buddy on this one :)

[@andrewwaters3038]

I could fully understand charging for the remote start from the app, but from your key fob that's already installed on the car is definitely predatory and wrong for sure.

[@ichigouzumaki324]

You may want to watch the video again. He did cover or defend Toyota for charging extra for the remote start. He did say that with another subscription (remote start) that families bill will increase, he did not say that it was fine and fork over the fee. This is wrong by Toyota to charge extra for a feature already in the car and pocket. Like so many have mention, if it's to use the app yes they can charge a fee, but not use the keyfob.

[@duke1773]

Unfortunately I agree with Jeff on this one. While it will be disappointing if the key fob function stops working it was in fact always included as a trial subscription. The fact that you could get away with using the key fob for free when the subscription ended to me was just a free bonus to take advantage of while it lasted. As a fellow sales consultant for Toyota for many years I have had this conversation with Toyota reps several years ago and was informed that the key fob will stop working after a number of years, which depended on the make and model. It was never intended to be a free feature that would last the lifetime of the vehicle and was never advertised as such. :(

[@andrewjohnson2465]

I’m sorry, but this is greed by Toyota. Think I’ll change my mind and get another brand. Was this close to buying a RAV-4.

[@pointbreak8293]

Awesome news Jeff. I’m gonna eventually put an aftermarket remote start on my 21 tundra bc I’m so sick of the truck turning off when I go to get in it and then have to restart it. I know it’s a safety issue with Toyota but it is what it is. Also, Toyota should not be charging people for remote start period just my opinion especially for what we pay for these vehicles…👍👍👍

[@alvinsimba734]

I already have aftermarket starter anyways and it's way cheaper than the dealer. Mine came with 2 remote for 2 key fobs with with lifetime warranty on the fobs. I only use it to warm my vehicle during the winter time but summer time I don't use it. This is for 2020 corolla LE which has a key ignition with it. My fob can lock and unlock all doors, but it also unlocks trunk while unlocking all doors at the same time. People just need to shop around thats all

[@commonsensecritic5468]

This is completely unacceptable. I live in Alaska, and when I purchased the vehicle from the dealer I asked them if it had remote start. The answer that I got was yes this vehicle comes from the factory with remote start. There was no indication that it was locked behind a pay wall that was going to cost me $80 a year. I bought a Toyota because Toyota is commonly run past 200,000 miles. That’s over 12 years. That really makes me mad especially since I had to pay a dealer markup just to get the vehicle.

[@bedfil]

I would understand charging for the app but the remote start too? I'll have a good look at the CRV and Tucson now.

[@LVLouisCyphre]

Remote start from the keyfob shouldn't be dependent upon a mobile data subscription service. Also, I doubt this form of remote start will work if you're in a mobile data service dead zone. I want my keyfob remote start to be dependent only upon the keyfob, not some cloud based subscription service especially since I go on road trips through mobile service dead zones.

[@daniel._.lister]

I love this feature on my car! I had no idea why it wasn't working, this video helped heaps, Thanks Jeff!

[@Toyotajeff]

Glad to help Dan! I love this feature and use my Remote Connect all the time. So does my wife. It's worth it to us to pay for the year. Every person will be different.

[@winstondeocampo699]

It’s greed by Toyota. Success has gone to their head and wants its loyal customers to pay for it.

[@Libertarian_Neighbor]

Aftermarket remote start companies have entered the chat… Kidding aside, I installed an aftermarket remote start in my 4Runner. It was a lot less expensive than paying $75/year for several years.

[@alvinsimba734]

Right and I did the same, people should learn to shop around lol

[@leoy5314]

Toyota (like the other manufacturers) are getting greedy. If you bought the car with the features, why do I, the consumer, need to pay a subscription to use that feature. Let’s make air conditioner and heater a subscription feature too. AWD, subscription. Headlights, subscription. Oh, you want to start your engine to drive to work (or wherever), hey, that’s subscription too. F it, F Toyota.

[@davidwethington9320]

"Accessorides" plug n play remote starts. I put one on my 4runner and Tacoma. Work great. No issues. No monthly fees.

[@guinnessman4668]

That is a good reason not to buy a Toyota and to buy a Honda, Ford, Chevy, or any other vehicle that come with it for free. Thank you for the info.

[@swells1]

What a stupid cash grab by Toyota

[@Ceelle2]

I did think it was forever. I need to look it up.

[@GregMcMillan]

Here's what EVERYONE keeps forgetting to mention, even Toyota in their official statement they released about it. The newer Toyota vehicles, where this subscription applies, don't have an actual remote starter installed in them. The key fob sends a signal to the vehicle to start, but it doesn't end there. The vehicle then sends a signal, via the cell towers nearby, to the Remote Connect servers, which in turn send a signal back to the vehicle to start the engine. THIS is why they charge the subscription fee, to maintain the systems. I got this information directly from Toyota over the phone. Consumers can install a physical remote starter, but it's recommended to get one from Toyota, not a third party, so you don't have any warranty issues. So, is it cheaper in the long run to pay the subscription fees while you have the vehicle or is a remote start unit cheaper? Something to look into if remote starting is something you need. But keep in mind, the fob still works for free for 3 years with the Audio Plus system and 10 years with Premium Audio, just not the app, which stops working after 1 year.

[@terrydemie]

Why do I want to give a Thumbs Down for the content but a Thumbs Up for the Explanation??? I am so conflicted. lol 😂

[@Toyotajeff]

Lol do what you feel is appropriate:) I’m just glad you’re here watching my videos! Have a wonderful rest of your week :) … although since it’s my video, I’m the only one who is either helped or hurt by a thumbs up or thumbs down lol

[@stevemattson4988]

Good luck on selling the upper trim levels now,bad move.

[@eddiew.6485]

I take my Netflix over Toyota ANYDAY !

[@eddiew.6485]

Bad move by Team Toyota…….People don’t need to start their car from Las Vegas…..they want to look out their window on a snowy day and push the button 3 times……Lots of Bad press for Toyota on this. I see Toyota changing their view on this………Just Sayin’

[@BDB-ji1ui]

Have this on my new 2022 Corolla SE. absolutely love it, especially living in Canada with extreme cold. I will definitely continue using when my one yr trial end in May 2023. I think it’s one of the best things ever to have on your Car these days.

[@VinodSinghal-w4m]

in UAE, this app allows to remote start car with app, only 2 times in a day

[@teddymullins3706]

I probably have the solution for the problem buy a Honda accord

[@TechGuuy]

Are you kidding me. Seriously, Toyota wants money to remote start car with a key fob. When people buy car they already pay for the Hardware and software that enables this feature. Remote start from key fob uses RF technology and Toyota is not doing anything extra when people remote start using the key fob. I understand that if remote start is done via app and that optional feature has charges. For remote start via app, Toyota has to maintain servers and a system with 3G or LTE connection but charging to start with key fob - UNACCEPTABLE. Will Toyota pay me if I want to buy a car that has by this service for 3 years and I don’t opt/use it. Pay me $8 per month for not using this feature. You should not defend this as just another monthly charge for a family. Toyota is being shameless but you not should behave in similar manner by saying - it’s just another monthly subscription.

[@paulkruglov7280]

What a rip off!! Shame on you, Toyota!

[@busybeez194]

I have put an order for Venza beci of your videos but this is giving me a pause. Will give a second look at other hybrid with remote start included without subscriptions. Here in Northeast, its very good feature to have during winter

[@leeheverly]

I was told by my salesman that I would be able to use the remote fob to start my car and there was no trial usage period, I could care less about using all the other features on the app, that’s just a stupid gimmick but it’s fun, I guess I’ll have to fight with Toyota corporate in 10 years if the salesman lied to me.

[@michaelmahar8832]

Thanks for the great info Jeff !! It’s so sad Toyota is doing this with the key fob. I hope I’ll be able to install an aftermarket remote start on my 2021 Venza. (As long as Toyota hasn’t built code into the system that prevents adding aftermarket remote start that is….)

[@vonbaronda4263]

Hi Michael! Hows your venza? I also have a venza but the windshield cracked overnight and this is happening to a couple of new venzas too in forums. My uncle has a venza and also got a crack on his windshield. Let me know what you think about this. I hope toyota would look into this and do something about it.

[@samochoa6733]

When I bought my new 2022 camry they wanted me to pay for windshield protection service. It turns out it only covers chips on glass. Not cracked glass. They won't replace the windshield in any case. Only fill in the chips from rocks before it turns into a Crack

[@princess287love]

Were you able to add it aftermarket?

[@alluraromel392]

Toyota is nickel & dining their customers. I remember when you could add remote start to your vehicle after market no app required. I assume you can still do so today. I bought the RAV4 Prime SE (dealer couldn’t get XSE) was “upgrading” 😂 from my 2018 Prius 4 . In many ways I feel jipped with the “features”. Can’t reset my MPG trip myself, the car does it automatically, (now I get people honking at me at the pump while I write my fuel log), but yet I have a 1970’s rear view mirror. The center vents won’t shut so why even bother to put vents in the rear? My father complained & called it a joke because without shutting the center vent airflow was non existent in the rear. My parents drove my car & couldn’t figure out how to reset the trip odometer, I had to tell them think of how you did it in the 442, they laughed & then gasped when they realized I wasn’t joking. Oh & what the heck, analog dials? All the useful info is crammed between them, this is 2021 not 1921. My parents don’t need reading glasses for their Prius Prime but they do for my RAV4 Prime. I’m really missing my Prius!

[@Jon-rh2qc]

Glad I sold that 2021 prius prime. This is a joke. I can understand doing this with an app, but a feature that's actually on your key? No. That's not cool. My XLE and LE both had this feature. If you're going to do this toyota, make sure that feature is sold on a different key.

[@kevyNova123]

Luckily for me.. i guess, the free connect subscription didn't worked from day one, because toyota scrwed it up on my 2020 Rav4 Hybrid XSE and when it ended after a year I told them I wouldn't pay 1 cent a year for it. Nor would i buy another toyota, someone should have told me that the hybrid system doesn't work in the cold when you have the heat on. Not great because i live in Atlantic Canada.

[@alvinsimba734]

I'm also from Atlantic Canada too, aftermarket remote starter has always been cheaper and more reliable with lifetime warranty. Did that on my 2020 Corolla LE and works like a charm.

[@jnick303]

I leased a 2018 RAV4 Limited. It came with remote start 3 year trial. About three months into my trail my wife and I went out to a restaurant. Right after we were seated I received a text message from Toyota that my passenger side window was open (thank you honey). That impressed me and saved me a loss of shopping we had in the car.

[@fishobob61]

Toyota Moneygrab Jeff. I was going to buy a Tacoma Soon but now I won't. Gonna get a Ranger instead. Still love your videos.

[@ALEXANDRUGABRIEL461]

Hello Toyota Jeff. I thought this was A Great Video. I have a 2022 Venza LE THAT CAME WITH REMOTE START TRIAL FOR 1 YEAR. VERY IMFORMATIVE VIDEO. THANK YOU.😂

[@davidhettinger9560]

Is there aftermarket remote start that work with Toyota hybrids. That would fix this

[@abcd1239me]

I received a 2021 Rav4 XLS hybrid with 5,000 miles as a gift 2 months ago. I didn't even realize it had remote start till this afternoon. I usually just start it up and drive. During the frost mornings I use a scrapper to remove and by the time I get to the main road which is very short distance it is warmed up and ready. So I am not sure if I will use this feature or not. Charging extra for a feature from the key fob is crazy, I understand using it from the app but not the key fob.

[@Elimporta2]

I was fan of Toyota until they disabled my remote start using the keyfob by an update. Now, I need to pay a subscription for something that came with my car. I already own 2 Toyotas, but I won’t buy Toyota anymore. Thank you for your reviews you helped me on getting the rav4 but now I’m upset with Toyota because of this.

[@lcole7501]

Our trial ends this month. My wife has no clue about these services (remote connect and safety connect) and I will subscribe again for the next 12 months. I doubt that I will buy another Toyota due to this remote start fee.

[@willfullyinformed]

2023 Off Road Tacoma with Advanced Tech Package and Premium Audio here. I got my truck 2 days ago, remote start worked great. My background is I.T security, so naturally I refuse to allow corporations to willy nilly track my services, hardware, etc. I called to disable and revoke consent on data tracking, etc. etc. They said they can't disable specific features, they have to disable the whole trial package - fine by me, I have no use for these trials. Well, it disabled my remote start through the key-fob. This is a huge issue because the receiver is physically installed onto your $46,000 truck and has absolutely nothing to do with the APP or other services, so they're disabling it via signal purely as a "F-YOU" for not consenting to their data collection and their data collecting trial services. This has to change but it will only happen if you spend 2 hours on the phone like I did to remove data collection and telling them this is wrong. It is purposely extremely inconvenient because they know most people won't go through the trouble. They're selling you by CAUSING THE PROBLEM and creating a paid for solution. People better stop being complacent or we will all own nothing while the 1% owns everything. Cheers

[@willfullyinformed]

A solution is installing a 3rd party remote start and getting rid of that subscription which I would much rather - people really need to stop being complacent, say NO and use alternative methods and tell them this isn't okay; they're taking literally all of your data for your breaking/acceleration/location/handling/use when using this app, etc. and selling it. Reputable $150 remote starts are on Amazon, etc. Not too hard to install, can have your local mechanic install it as well. You should not have to have an APP installed on your PHONE for a physical feature you paid for on your car.

[@DavidHubing]

WOW --- I had no idea why my wife's 2020 Rav4 keyless remote start quit working. The dealership said bring it in, we'll put it on the computer ($150.00) . Maybe they didn't know why--- so I got the standard answer. Anyway, shame on Toyota for demanding a monthly $8 dollar ransom money payment for what other car manufactures include with the vehicle purchase. IT"S SAD that they jumped on the " lets stick to the consumer again" band wagon. I've owned 3 Toyota's and 1 Lexus, all good cars. But this greedy mentality -- has me rethinking my Highlander needs.

[@billchief397]

Wow I am dismayed...I bought the hatchback special edition this year...I just heard about this... is this real... the key fob being deactivated for the autostart? Wow....

[@Stewdiggy]

What features will they try and monetize next? Heated seats? Remote trunk open? Both “luxury” features that aren’t necessary to have. I for one will not be renewing my remote connect thru Toyota even though I use it regularly. Bought a 2021 Highlander this year and this definitely puts a sour taste in my mouth.

[@fmf5304]

imagine having to pay to start your vehicle with your own physical fob, glad i bought that ram with a v8 instead of some scrap.

[@RafaelSwit]

What if you're a loyal Toyota family with multiple models? Do you get "rewarded" with subscription for each?

[@M.A.T.T.A.L.I.A.N.O]

Yeah, you get “rewarded” when you shell out $80/yr PER vehicle

[@82dupont]

I ordered an SR5 double cab, 4x4. I paid the dealer for a remote start to be installed in my truck when it is delivered, however nowhere in the description of the specs of my car does it say anything about remote start subscription, I also chose the SR5 because it has less technology. How does that affect my SR5? I will just have to get an aftermarket remote start and get my money back from the dealer if I have to pay for a subscription to start my car remotely.

[@xlinuxid]

This is interesting, should we have a subscription service for using power steering, or might be for using door locks or Toyota safety sense? Those are choice we need to make as well?

[@JkJK-pb5qm]

Yes, your heated seats can be disabled.

[@DMHK138]

We bought a new ‘20 Camry two years ago and the remote connect app was so disappointing that we didn’t keep it beyond the trial period. Toyota had no answer for why it didn’t work correctly. However,the remote start does still work from the key fob. Maybe because my car is a loaded up XLE that has it regardless,I don’t know.

[@robertblaney5033]

Just another money grab by car companies. I put an aftermarket remote start on my Honda & it will work forever FOR FREE !!!

[@Oregoncoast30]

Once the free subscription ended, I can't even play my music on my phone. You have to plug in your phone into one of the USB chargers to play your music.

[@OmahaWayne]

Next it will be you had your free trial of heated seats. But dont worry we wont charge you for it all summer but now that its sub zero outside that will be 15 bucks a month. We bought my wifes camry new in 2018 and not one word was mentioned that the remote start would be a fee. It will be our last toyota ever. I guess we know the value of a loyal 20 year customer now, its 8 bucks a month. CYA toyota Loved the video though and it definitely gets a thumbs up :)

[@anthonylee2566]

Ive just bought a 2023 Corolla SE with the remote starter. Before I left the dealer and fully activated the app, the key fon started the car. Now, a few days later, tried again and it did not! Only through the app. I wonder if I discontinue the app in a year, itll work again. No idea! Ill wait to try it and update you guys.

[@callmej3671]

Hey Jeff - I have a 2021 Corolla Hatchback XSE with manual transmission. As you are aware, Remote Start/Key fob start is not available on manual transmission models, so there is already reduced value for me (but I was aware of that before vehicle purchase). This Corolla also has limited vehicle status info compared to other Toyota models. Not so sure the other Remote Connect features are worth a subscription. Now my wife’s new 2022 Corolla Cross XLE might be worth it when the trial expires. We’ll reconsider then. But not very cool for Toyota to disable just the key fob start ability!

[@billcason4014]

Sales guy just told me today that a 2024 rav key fob can’t do remote start. It was a limited.

[@BeachBow]

I had to add a 3rd party to setup remote start on my 2022 4Runner Off Road. 50K for a vehicle and it doesn't come with remote start, no cargo cover, and no crossbars on the roof rails.

[@journeywithstu7199]

Never in my history of car buying have I ever got remote start for free. It was either an option, a package, or a subscription. And other than the hazard lights, it is probably my least used option. When my free trail runs out I’ll save the $8 and treat myself to a beer. And TCS won’t be knocking down my driving score because my truck leans too much while cornering.

[@rafaelbanderas101]

Lol my 2015 Chevy has it free on the key fob that’s what everyone is talking about gonna hate it when it’s gone on my Tacoma trail finishes… pretty ridiculous tbh

[@alvinsimba734]

@@rafaelbanderas101 aftermarket remote starter has always been the way to go. Shouldn't lose sleep over this

[@THEBIGCHULETA]

Remote connect is as bad and annoying as the auto start feature that turns the car off while you are stopped at a stop light. Tell Toyota they can take this remote connect and cram it somewhere. I wouldn’t pay a dime for any subscriptions.

[@feral4112]

Hey ToyotaJeff. Any way you could advise how long my free remote will work on my new Toyota Sienna? I just don’t understand how people like myself weren’t told the remote start on the key fob isn’t free forever, you know like every other vehicle. Everyone gets the app will cost but not the key fob

[@boyblue737]

"And what you can do about it..... you can buy the subscription." Well, damn, OBVIOUSLY.

[@7aramkeda334]

Good job Jeff, the problem is that as a consumer, we don't read the fine print, lots of people don't understand that there're 3 services that come as free trials, and I myself, didn't know that my navigation stopped working after 1 year of buying and I thought something went wrong with my display, until I found out that also my remote connect was expired, as didn't know that it was only a trial. It's not Toyota's fault, it's the consumer that didn't read the fine prints and do some more research. But I can honestly say that $80 a year is not that much to pay for good connections like those Toyota offers. God bless.

[@naveenthemachine]

I bought my 2020 Camry from Toyota in apex NC in 2019 and the sales person showed me the remote start via the fob. Plus she told me it’s a 1 year trial with the Toyota app, but it’s included forever with the key fob

[@M.A.T.T.A.L.I.A.N.O]

She outright lied or doesn’t know the product she is selling

[@timjones-ml7pu]

I believe a class action will get filed if Toyota drops remote start.

[@wsdeleon]

So what’s next‽ Baggage compartment fee? Just bought a used Toyota last week. If I had been aware of this I’d’ve thought twice about it.

[@alvinsimba734]

You can always get an aftermarket remote starter anyways way cheaper than dealer installed anyways. Glad you got your car.

[@SuperKAgility]

Ok, great video. My question: 2013 To 2018 Rav 4 Limited, what features do I need to look for to have remote start? Thank You.

[@LeNguyen-uo9wn]

Can you Add the remote starter to more than one car ? Thank you

[@SoleEpiphany]

Hey Jeff, keep up the awesome content. I have a bit of an odd situation. I have a 2021 Rav XSE that’s all good to go. However also have a 2021 Sienna XSE, the kicker is that unit is a VMI conversion, the trials were started in July but we never took delivery until November. Is Toyota willing to extend the trials? Also is there a way to get a copy of the window sticker, that was removed before the Van got to here.

[@leardi58]

Have a new 2023 Toyota 4Runner premium TRD dealership can't get it to work both web and fob and help thanks

[@Taiwankiddo2]

I use this a lot. I didn't realize that you lose the whole app... that isn't good... oy... it also tells if something is in your back seat, it reminds me when it's not locked and my kids leave it unlocked a lot, it also reminds me of my car apt too.

[@saxman112]

Yup, I guess this is what we all get for not reading the fine print (but then again, who does?). This right here is actually why I'm kind of glad that I didn't spring for Audio Plus with my RAV4 XLE Premium hybrid (which will be at my dealer soon!), as I'll just get one of those modules that will allow you to do that from the key without having to pony up $8/mo or $80/yr just to keep the feature going after your 3 yr or 10 yr trial depending on what audio setup you got. Charging for stuff that you can do through the app is one thing, but having to charge for something that you can do with the fob even with it not having access to anything aside from your own vehicle is kind of ridiculous in my opinion... Regardless of all this, I'm excited to get what will be a nice Christmas gift to myself in the form of my new RAV next week! Woohoohoohoohoohoo!

[@mauzouq]

How it will start my engine from far distance without internet? Or i need sim card net service too??

[@VinodSinghal-w4m]

I just bought 3.5T Top range. Realized Remote does not start he car. Tried to contact customer care and service centre. They did not have knowledge about it. Also Toyota connect app works for 2 times in a day only. I feel cheated. Also my LC300 (which i bought 3 weeks back only), got jammed in P mode while reversing my car. And I could not move the car at all. I spoke to customer care- again they were very helpless. no technical support.

[@soumyabrataroy3065]

Hi Sir, After 3 years on My 2019 Rav4, remote start stopped working even after subscription being active. Dealership said DCM went faulty. But I don’t think so because SOS button is working. I have safety connect active too. Do you have any guess/idea ?

[@bmlove81]

Honda's that have remote start on the key fob, can be used free of charge. I think you have to sign up to use your phone to remote start it.

[@jeziahchevalier9012]

Where does the money go to? Japan, or where the car is built, in arica or the car dealership?

[@drewambrose7537]

I have a 2023 Corolla LE Hybrid. I can confirm this DOES NOT work with or without subscription. Why it cannot be added on afterwards is beyond me. I guess Toyota doesn't want my $80 a year.

[@eddiew.6485]

And Jeff, Stop backing into the fact that this just isn’t right……Your losing your Credibility! “ Once a Salesman, Always a Salesman”🤪

[@Pierre.P4]

I have a Toyota I dig, with that said Toyota has the worst remote start with the open door engine cutoff.

[@kevinjec9306]

@ToyotaJeff_reviews I have a 2021 Toyota Corolla LE and it doesn't come with service connect what can I do about it

[@harryav340]

I have a fix for this. Hold the fob key lock and unlock button for 20 sec and then turn on the engine. Then turn off the engine and press hold lock for 5 sec. Press hold unlock for 5 sec. Open and close the door manually once. Lock and unlock the usual way Then try the regular remote start steps. Hoila.. it just works like magic The trick is that the above steps open debug session and it doesnt need subscription plan. These steps usually performed only by a certified mechanic.

[@motobc2251]

So the stories going around are true. Just get an aftermarket it’ll work forever if you don’t need the phone app. It’s not like Toyota let’s you open the door without having the engine shutdown so same as aftermarket.

[@jml9550]

Exactly. I have had Viper Remote start and Alarm installed in my last 6 car, crazy remote range and very reliable.

[@mibren2]

Apparently Toyota needs to learn something about marketing. People HATE to be nickeled and dimed to death. I love my new Rav4 but this is bs.

[@JoseTorres-sl1xp]

I have a 2021 Highlander and the service expired Aug of 2022. We continue to have remote start with the keyfob for about 5 months and then it stopped working. We call Toyota Services and they told us that they did not have a way to remotely change the settings on my car to cause the keyfob from working and to take the vehicle in. We took the car in, and 1st thing they did not even look at the remote start issue but told us they could not do anything unless we got the "Toyota Subscription". well I have a Launch vehicle diagnostic unit and found a 2 or 3 layer deep setting called "Communication Remote Engine Start" and that was set to "Available". I changed that to "Not Available" and guess what the Keyfob remote started the vehicle. I will load that video shortly.

[@lowrider0two]

So Jeff just want to make this clear. My Rav4 xse after the trial is over I only can use my fob only to open and start your my car when your inside

[@SolidSL510]

It’s worth it if you live at a place with hot climax and have air conditioning ready

[@gyice]

In all honesty, Toyota wants you to continually pay for a service on your car that they get the benefit from. That being if you don't turn off their driving assist they can sell that info to any Corporation. It's a Scam , Period. I just don't know how many times I was sitting in Vegas and wanted to start my Car in Fort Wayne, yes well worth it. Let's find out what is the best after Market remote Starter you can put on your Toyota so you can stop the Bleed. I know Honda and Mazda are looking pretty good right now.

[@IzaguirreC]

I have a 2020 Tacoma trd offroad and it came with remote connect, but I was never able to use the app or remote start on it. The lights flash just like it should but doesn’t start. The trial was still active during that time.

[@noblekishor]

Get a base model and after market remote start, save money up front and future.