You can remotely start your car thanks to the Kia Connect app, just use the “start” icon under the remote start option. You can also turn the vehicle off by pressing the “stop” option.

Let’s face it, starting your Kia from a distance can be handy, especially if you want to cool your car down in the summer or warm it up during the winter. The Kia Connect app, formerly called the UVO (Your Voice) app, lets you do exactly that, thanks to a bit of tech know-how.

Fortunately, it’s an easy app to use and does more than just start your Kia.

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How to start your Kia remotely through the Connect app

The Connect app is easy to use once you download the app for your smartphone from the App Store or Google Play. You can sync your phone with your Kia to start using the remote options.

If you want to use the remote start, be aware that Kia set up some safety features—all car doors must be closed and locked, while the key cannot be inside the vehicle in order for the remote option to work. You’ll follow a couple of steps:

Open the Kia Connect app

Choose the “remote” option at the bottom of the screen

Adjust the temperature setting to the right temp

Choose “start” and then “OK”

And that’s it! You can use the remote start to heat up or cool down your car by adjusting the temperature based on what you need.

However, be aware that you should use your key fob to start the car after using the remote option. Kia limited the remote start option to avoid draining the battery, so you need to reset the system by using your key.

MORE:

What Does the Kia CPO Warranty Cover?

How to turn your Kia off remotely

If you use Kia Connect to start your vehicle, it will automatically shut off after 10 minutes. However, you can also switch the car back off without waiting—just press “stop” to turn off the engine.

Other Kia Connect features

Of course, the remote start is just one of many options Kia Connect offers. You can do a lot more, including these features:

Control doors and trunk: You can lock and unlock the doors or pop open the trunk

Window control: You can open or close the windows via the app

Parking location: If you can’t remember where you parked, there’s an app option for that. Just be aware that it involves the horn and flashing headlights, so maybe don’t try it at 3 a.m.

Vehicle condition: You can double-check whether the doors are locked, if the engine is running, temperature settings, if you accidentally left the windows down, or even if the hood or trunk is open

Destination transmission: Just got directions and don’t have a pen? You can transfer the location from your smartphone to the car so the vehicle can calculate navigation for the route once you turn the car on.

Accident notification and SOS: The app helps you automatically connect with Kia’s Emergency Rescue Center and call 911 during an emergency.

These are just a few ways you can use Kia Connect. You’ll be able to keep track of your vehicle and its status, as well as use the safety features. You can do a lot more than heat your car for a few minutes on a cold day.

MORE: The Best Midsize Kia cars

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Is Kia’s remote start app free?

Only for the first year and only if you purchase a new Kia. You can also choose the Lite plan, which gives you free access to the basics, like maintenance reminders, and is good for up to five years. Otherwise, it’s a subscription service with a monthly or annual fee if you want to use it.

Once your year is up, then you can choose among three levels—Care ($5.99 monthly/$59 annually), Plus ($14.99 monthly/$149 annually), or Ultimate ($19.99 monthly/$199 annually). You can pick an option that works for your needs and budget.

Which Kia vehicles have remote start?

While the remote start is available on newer Kias, it depends on whether it is a standard or optional feature based on the model and trim. If you are interested in a vehicle with the Kia Connect option, you’ll want to consider the following options:

Model	Available on (model years)	2022 trim levels with standard remote start
Cadenza	2014 and newer	All trim levels
Forte	2017 and newer	All trim levels
K900	2015 and newer	All trim levels
Niro	2017 and newer	All trim levels
Optima Hybrid and Optima	2011 and newer	All trim levels
Rio	2011 and newer	All trim levels
Sedona	2015 and newer	All trim levels except LX, EX – LX and EX had a basic UVO which was discontinued
Seltos	2021 and newer	All trim levels
Sorento	2011 and newer	All trim levels
Soul	2011 and newer	All trim levels
Sportage	2011 and newer	All trim levels
Stinger	2018 and newer	All trim levels
Telluride	2020 and newer	All trim levels

Key Takeaway If your Kia was made since 2011, it probably has Kia Connect capability, but check before you purchase it if the app is an important feature to you.

How to save on Kia insurance costs

Kia might not be a luxury brand, but it can feel like one, especially with the high-tech options Kia Connect offers. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay luxury car prices for your

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