How to Remote Start Your 2021 Honda Pilot

Remote starting your 2021 Honda Pilot is easy—just press the lock button, then press and hold the remote start button on your key fob.
Written by Jacqulyn Graber
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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It’s super easy to use your key fob to remote start your 2021
Honda Pilot
. First, press the lock button once, then—within five seconds—press and hold the remote start button. Within a few moments, your Pilot’s turn signals will flash six times, indicating that your vehicle has successfully started. 
Whether it’s the dead of winter and you’re hoping to defrost your vehicle a bit before braving the cold, or it’s the height of July and just the thought of crawling into a non-air conditioned car makes you melt, a remote start is a major convenience. Not only can you start your Honda Pilot ahead of time—you can do so from a distance! 
Jerry
—a personal
 car insurance
broker,
super app
, and expert on all things car-related—is here with step-by-step directions on how to work your Honda Pilot’s remote start feature, as well as some tricks and trips for remotely operating your vehicle as safely as possible. 

How to remote start your 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2021 Honda Pilot comes in six trim levels, and every trim level except the entry-level (known as the EX) is offered with remote engine start. 
Starting your car remotely will fire up the engine and the automatic climate control system will heat or cool the interior to a comfortable 72º F. On days when it’s particularly freezing outside, it will even engage the heated seats and steering wheel (if your car is equipped). :

Starting the car

  • Press the lock button once on your
    key fob
    .
  • Within 5 seconds, press and hold the remote start button. 
  • Within a few moments, your Pilot’s turn signals will flash six times, indicating your vehicle has successfully started. 
It’s really that simple! Your Pilot will stay running for 10 minutes—the perfect amount of time for your car’s interior to reach a comfortable temperature. 

Turning off the engine

  • Press and hold the remote start button until the turn signals flash once, indicating the engine has been turned off.
  • OR, if your Pilot is the Touring, Elite, or Black Edition Trim, you can stop your remotely started engine using the HondaLink® app
Keep in mind that remotely stopping your vehicle is only possible if you’ve remotely started it—it won’t work if there’s a key in the ignition! 
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2021 Honda Pilot remote start tips and tricks

Just like starting your vehicle the traditional way, when remote starting your vehicle, safety is key! Here are a few tips and tricks for using this convenient feature:
  • Your remote start feature works from about 100 feet away—assuming there are no buildings or other obstructions in the way.
  • You can extend the remote start run time an additional 10 minutes by repeating the remote start process during its initial run. 
  • If you have a trim level that supports the HondaLink® app, you can use it to extend the remote start run time
  • Avoid dangerous toxic carbon monoxide poisoning by always remote starting your vehicle in a well-ventilated area. 
  • Similarly, avoid starting your car near flammable materials in the area, like grease, oil, and dead grass. 
Key Takeaway Safety first! Only remote start your Honda away from flammable materials and in a well-ventilated area. 

Which Honda models come with remote start?

The Pilot isn’t the only Honda with remote start capabilities. The following include the feature too:
Keep in mind that remote start capabilities might depend on a vehicle’s trim level—so always double-check at the dealership! 

How to save money on Honda Pilot insurance

Remote starting your Honda Pilot is as simple as pushing a few buttons—and, if you use
Jerry
, shopping for a new car insurance policy can be just as easy!
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FAQs

Honda Pilots have had the option for remote start since 2021—you just have to select the EX, Special Edition, Touring, Elite, or Black Edition trim levels.
Remote starting your Honda Pilot takes just a few moments. Once you press the lock button, press the remote start button within five seconds, and your car will respond momentarily.
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