How to remote start Lexus RX350 with key fob or mobile device

Lexus RX350 supports remote start feature that allows you to remotely start the engine of your vehicle for the purpose of cooling or preheating the interior before the passengers gets to it.

The remote start feature on Lexus RX350 has many benefits. You can start your vehicle in advance when the weather is too hot or cold outside. The system turns on the air conditioning or heating, making inside cabin temperature more tolerable when you get to your vehicle.

Before you start your RX350 remotely, ensure that the vehicle is parked in a well ventilated area. Starting your vehicle in an enclosed space, like a closed garage, introduces risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Remote start procedure for RX350

You can remotely start your Lexus RX350 by following these simple steps:

1. Press and release the LOCK button twice within two seconds on the key fob of your RX350.
   
2. Then press and hold the LOCK button for three seconds on the key fob.
3. The turn signal lights flash multiple times and the engine starts.
4. Once started remotely, the engine will run for 10 minutes and then shut down automatically.

For safety reasons, the engine will turn off if you open any door on your RX350 when the engine is running after remote start. A valid key must be inside your vehicle to switch the ignition on and drive your vehicle.

Remotely stop RX350’s engine

There are two methods to remotely shut off RX350’s engine.

Method 1: Press the UNLOCK button on the key fob. The engine stops and the hazard lights flash twice. The doors will be unlocked in this method and will re-lock shortly after if no action is taken.

Method 2: Press and hold the LOCK button on the key fob for two or more seconds on your Lexus RX350. The engine stops and the hazard lights flash once. With this method the doors will remain locked after the engine is shut off. You should use this method if you have any security concerns.

Climate control setting

Remote engine start will also activate HVAC controls in your RX350 by defaulting to the condition they were in when the vehicle was turned off. Keeping your vehicle on the Auto Mode setting is recommended for improved vehicle temperature preconditioning.

Extend engine running time

When you remotely start the engine of your RX350, it will run for 10 minutes and then shut off automatically. When this happens, you can perform another remote start procedure which doubles the engine running time. You can start the engine remotely for a maximum of two consecutive times, after that you need to turn the ignition on and off from inside the vehicle before you can use remote starter again.

Automatic engine shutdown after remote start

The remote engine starter on Lexus RX350 will automatically shut engine off under the following conditions:

• The hood is opened.
• When the shift lever is moved to any position other than “P”.
• When the brake pedal is depressed.
• When any door is unlocked or opened.
• When key is inserted into the ignition or push start button is pressed.
• When the security alarm is triggered.
  Note: engine will continue to run of panic alarm is triggered from key fob.

Remote start system not working on Lexus RX350

If the engine on your RX350 does not start when you perform the remote starting procedure, it can be due to a number of reasons:

• Your vehicle is low on fuel.
• The hood on your RX350 is not fully closed.
• One or more of the vehicle doors are open, make sure they are securely closed.
• The transmission is not in park mode (P).
• The 12v battery voltage has gone too low.
• The service engine light is turned on in the instrument cluster.
• Your Lexus RX350 may not have the remote start feature. Get your vehicle checked by an authorized dealer to confirm if it is equipped with a remote start system.

Note: Remote engine start feature is not available on Lexus models with manual transmission.

Video Demonstration (key fob)

Remote start Lexus RX350 with a mobile device

RX350 supports Lexus Enform Remote service, which allows you to remotely start the engine of your vehicle with an Apple or Android mobile device.

1. Download “Lexus” app from App Store or Google Play on your mobile device.
2. Tap the Lexus app icon on your device to start using the app.
3. Next, make sure that the country and language are set to your preference and then tap Sign-in, or create a new account.
4. Add your RX350 in the Lexus app and activate Enform Remote service.
   
5. Now press and hold the Start Engine button on the home screen of Lexus app.
   
6. The turn signal lights flash multiple times and the engine starts.
7. Once the engine has been started, it will automatically shut off after 10 minutes if the vehicle isn’t driven.

Stop engine with mobile device

To remotely turn off your RX350’s engine, press and hold the Stop button in the Lexus app for one second.

Video Demonstration (mobile device)

Video: Set up Lexus app and Enform Remote service

Safety precautions

These are warnings against actions which may cause injury to people/vehicle if the warning is ignored.

• Never start the engine of your RX350 in an enclosed area (such as a garage or indoor parking lot) where exhaust gases may accumulate and create a hazardous environment with potential for Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Do not start the engine if a child or pet are present in or near the vehicle.
• Always turn off vehicle systems such as the windshield wipers, headlights and radio before leaving the vehicle. If left on, such systems may be damaged or vehicle battery depleted by remote engine start in extreme cold weather.

Engine idling law

There are laws against car idling with no passenger or driver inside in many states to protect the environment. It does not mean its completely illegal to use remote start, some states have time limit on how long you can keep the engine running. So check with your local state laws before using the remote start feature on your Lexus RX350.