Comfort and Convenience

Perhaps the best-known and most obvious benefit of remote start is that it allows Audi drivers to pre-condition the cabin in less-than-ideal weather conditions. On brutal Michigan winter days, few things are better than climbing into a car that’s already been warmed up and defrosted, and similarly, remote start can help avoid greenhouse-effect-boosted triple-digit internal temperatures during the summer. Not only does remote start avoid this discomfort, it saves time that would ordinarily be spent waiting for the Audi’s climate systems to take effect.

Engine and Component Benefits

Any Audi model is among the most finely-tuned machines anywhere in the world, and remote start helps to keep it that way, particularly in cold conditions. In low temperatures, motor oil thickens, meaning that it temporarily isn’t able to effectively do its job of lubricating the engine’s moving parts. Allowing the systems to get up to an appropriate running temperature gradually helps minimize wear during this vulnerable period.

Safety and Security

Remote start on an Audi is incredibly secure, thanks to several built-in features, including a multi-step digital authentication process to connect the myAudi app to the vehicle in the first place. While it is running, the doors remain locked, and should anyone attempt unauthorized entry, the engine will immediately shut down. Essentially, an Audi is just as safe during a remote start as it is while fully parked.

Lifestyle Fit

There are lots of reasons why fumbling around with a key fob or an app might not be terribly convenient for many drivers. Undoubtedly, those with small children or mobility issues benefit a great deal from being able to get their Audi ready to run remotely, at their convenience, as there’s already plenty to do while getting into their vehicle.

Audi’s remote start system differs a bit from most manufacturers. While select models (notably, the Q3 and Q5) still offer remote start through a key fob in addition to through a smart device, Audi remote start is primarily managed through the myAudi app.

However, the myAudi app is incredibly simple to use, following some basic steps.

1. Download and pair the myAudi app. myAudi is available for both Apple and Android devices. Once installed and launched, on-screen instructions will assist you with linking the app to your Audi.
2. Create a PIN. Beyond the numerous digital verification methods running behind the scenes, the PIN is an added layer of security that keeps the myAudi app secure from unauthorized access.
3. Prepare your Audi. To initiate a remote start, your vehicle must be in park, and with the emergency brake on. It also must be locked, including the hood and trunk. Finally, and somewhat obviously, it has to have enough gas — the low fuel light can’t be illuminated. Often, when a remote start attempt fails, it’s because one of these conditions isn’t met. It’s also important to note than an Audi remote start will only run for about 15 minutes before automatically shutting down to conserve gas and minimize environmental impact.
4. Press the remote start icon in myAudi. Once you do so, the app will prompt you for your PIN (or a Face ID, if enabled) to confirm the request, then notify you that your vehicle has started.