What Is Lexus Remote Connect?

The automotive industry constantly pushes boundaries and sets new benchmarks when developing cutting-edge technology to make life more convenient. In other words, vehicles these days are more than just about getting from point A to point B. One such example is the Lexus Remote Connect feature. This advanced app-based system allows drivers to control their vehicles remotely and perform various functions from the comfort of their home, office, or anywhere else.

Lexus Connectivity

Lexus Remote Connect is a component of a broader subscription-based system called Lexus Drive Connect that combines app technology with an Intelligent Assistant voice-recognition system for a more connected driving experience. The primary components of Lexus Drive Connect are Remote Connect, Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Cloud Navigation with Destination Assist for advanced mapping and directional functionalities.

Although these systems integrate in varying ways, this article will focus on Remote Connect for its services to elevate everyday owner convenience.

What Does Lexus Remote Connect Do?

Lexus Remote Connect enables several functions operated by a mobile phone app. You can also pair the Lexus app with a compatible Apple Watch or Android Wear device. The primary functions include:

• Engine start/stop—Starts and stops the engine from a distance and also heats or cools the interior with remote climate controls (more details below)
• Door lock/unlock—Locks and unlocks vehicle doors from a distance for fast and easy entry and exit
• Status of windows/moonroof—Checks whether windows and moonroof are open
• Vehicle finder—Makes finding a Lexus vehicle simple with an easy-to-read map on the smartphone
• Guest driver monitor—Families with a young driver in the house can employ Lexus Remote Connect to monitor driving habits and activity. This system will provide alerts when the vehicle exceeds preset speeds. It will also keep the owner informed of miles and routes driven.
• Vehicle status and alerts—Provides vehicle status information such as miles on the odometer, service alerts, and fuel amount
• Amazon Alexa voice command—Owners can pair Lexus Remote Connect with Amazon Alexa to access all features and functions with simple voice commands such as "Hey, Google" or "Alexa."

All the above items, except engine start/stop with climate controls, are straightforward features that need little or no additional explanation and have few caveats. However, engine start/stop has several conditions that must be met to enable.

Engine Start/Stop

Whether it's a cold winter morning or a hot summer afternoon, the Remote Connect feature in the Lexus app lets you remotely start your vehicle to warm or cool the interior based on the last climate-control settings. The car will run for up to 10 minutes or until you turn off the engine remotely or from inside the vehicle. Alternatively, a key fob can remotely start the car if the keys are within range.

However, the vehicle will not turn on under any of the following circumstances:

• "Start" button inside the vehicle is depressed
• Doors/trunk/hood are open or unlocked
• Alarm is triggered
• Ignition is already on
• Foot brake is depressed
• Vehicle is not in Park
• The key fob is inside the vehicle
• Fuel tank/level at 1/4 or less
• Outside temperature is below -22° F (-30° C)

The vehicle runs up to 10 minutes after activating the remote engine start. Once this time expires, the car will automatically stop. Remote start can run the vehicle for up to another 10 minutes, after which the driver must manually start it to use the function again.

Once started remotely, the vehicle will shut off due to any of the following circumstances:

• The 10-minute vehicle run-time has expired
• Pressing the remote "Stop" button on the app
• Doors/trunk/hood are opened
• Ignition turned to the accessory ("ACC") position
• The key fob unlocks the door
• Something triggers the alarm

In addition, you cannot turn the vehicle off with Lexus Remote Connect if you started it using the in-vehicle "Start" push button. In that case, only that button will turn the car off.

Remote Climate Controls

When you turn the vehicle on remotely, the climate controls default to the last setting. Although you cannot adjust the temperature remotely, if you turn off the air and the outside temperature is less than 41°F or greater than 86°F, the system automatically turns on and sets the temperature to 77°F. This default temperature will appropriately offset hot and cold weather. If the outside temperature is less than 41°F, the front and rear defrosters will turn on.

Summary

Lexus Remote Connect allows the driver to interface with their vehicle even when it's not in sight. This system grants control of a wide array of vehicle functions from a distance, making the ownership experience easier and more convenient than ever.

To learn more about various automotive technologies, visit the Shopping Guides section of the website.

Jessica Shea Choksey is an experienced writer in the automotive field. In addition to JDPower.com, she was a correspondent for PBS's MotorWeek. Her work has also appeared in AutoTrader.

Related Resources

• Research a Vehicle
• All Cars for Sale
• Sell My Car
• Compare Cars
• Car Finder Tool
• Car Ratings
• New Car Previews
• Expert Car Reviews