How to Remote Start Your Ford Explorer

Ford makes it easy to use your Explorer’s remote start feature with the option to either use your key fob or the FordPass app.
Written by Sophie Boka
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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Ford makes it easy to remote start your
Ford Explorer
: simply click and hold the “2x” button on your key fob or the “Start Engine” button on the FordPass app. Before you do either, be sure your Explorer has plenty of ventilation. A carbon monoxide buildup could take this feature from cool to chaos.
Picture this: you’re running errands on a blazing hot day, and your arms are heavy with bags. As you approach your parked car and hesitantly open the door, a thick wave of heat spills out, and you rush to start blasting the AC. What if instead, you remote start your vehicle and wrap up your errands in a cool sanctuary?
If you’re fed up with scorching hot summers or frigid winters, the
super app
and licensed broker
Jerry
is here to break down all you need to know about remotely starting your vehicle. We’ll explain each step, and even lend a few tips and tricks to make your remote start a breeze.
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How to remote start your Ford Explorer

First, make sure you’re within 300 feet of your vehicle, which is about the length of a football field. Then, get those fingers ready for some button-pressing.

Starting the car

  • Click the lock button on your
    key fob
    .
  • Press the 2x button twice.
  • Ensure your Explorer’s lights flash twice. Then, you’re set!
Once on, your engine and your heating or
cooling system
will be activated. You can set your vehicle to remain running for five, 10, or 15 minutes. Need a bit of extra time? Follow the first two steps again to tack on another interval. You can extend your engine’s running time for up to 35 minutes

Turning off the engine

  • Press the 2x button once.
No longer need to take that drive? A change of plans is a click away. Just make sure your vehicle’s lights have turned off. Sometimes, you need to be a bit closer for the vehicle to turn off remotely

Ford Explorer remote start tips and tricks

Congrats! You’ve got the basics covered. But before you hit the road, you’ll want to make sure you check out these tips and tricks:
  • Research engine idling laws in your state. Some states are particular about if, how, and when you can remote start your vehicle.
  • Ensure your vehicle is well ventilated! If it’s not (i.e. if it’s in the garage) it could create a dangerous carbon monoxide build-up.
  • Your fob can do more than start your engine and set your climate. Your pre-set seat, mirror, and steering-column positions may also be activated through your settings.
  • Remember: remote start will not work if the ignition is on, the transmission is not in “Park,” the battery is low, fuel is low, or the service engine light is on.
  • Can’t find your fob? You can remote start from your phone! Simply download the FordPass app, sign-in, and get started.
Key Takeaway Before you remote start your vehicle, check up on engine idling laws and ensure your vehicle is well ventilated to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. 
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Which Ford models come with remote start?

As time goes by, more
Ford
models are built standard with the remote start feature. Check out the expanding roster of models that can be started from the comfort of your home:

How to save money on Ford Explorer insurance

Whether or not you rely on remote start to get your Explorer going, you can always rely on
Jerry
to protect your Explorer with the best insurance on the market at the lowest rates.
Jerry makes signing up for car insurance as easy as remotely starting your vehicle. Simply download the app, tap in your info, and Jerry will generate customized policy options from top-rated insurers for you to choose from. 
All you need to do is select your new policy, and our team of experts will cover the rest. What’s more? Drivers who make the switch save tons of time and an average of $800+ on car insurance!
Jerry
found me useful quotes immediately, so I switched over my insurance in under an hour! I’m now helping my parents use Jerry because they just bought a new car.” —Brindi J. 
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
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FAQs

Believe it or not, Ford Explorers have been able to remote start since the ‘80s! Ever since then, the feature has been more customizable, and the feature has become integrated into the majority of Ford models.
If you’re in range, it should take no more than five seconds to remote start your Ford Explorer.
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