Does Ford Remote Start Cost Money?

No. Ford currently provides Remote Start and Remote Stop through the Ford app as complimentary connected features on compatible vehicles. If your Ford is equipped with the necessary connected vehicle hardware, you can generally use the Ford app to start and stop your vehicle remotely without paying a separate monthly subscription for basic remote start.

You will need to download the Ford app, add your vehicle to your Ford account, and activate the vehicle's connected modem. Once everything is properly connected, compatible features can include Remote Start/Stop, remote door locking and unlocking, vehicle status, mileage, fuel level, tire-pressure information, and other ownership tools.

Ford does offer additional Connected Services that can cost money, including services such as BlueCruise and certain connectivity packages. Those paid services are separate from basic Ford app remote start.

Is Ford App Remote Start Free?

Yes. Ford currently describes Remote Start/Stop through the Ford app as a free feature on compatible connected vehicles.

You do not need to purchase a separate Ford remote-start subscription simply to use the basic app-based Remote Start/Stop feature on an eligible vehicle.

To use it, your Ford generally needs:

• Compatible connected vehicle hardware
• An activated vehicle modem
• A Ford account
• The Ford app installed on a compatible smartphone
• Your Ford added to the app
• Any required vehicle authorization completed
• A cellular connection available to the vehicle

Once the vehicle is properly connected, Remote Start/Stop can appear with the other available vehicle controls in the Ford app.

Do I Have to Pay a Monthly Fee for Ford Remote Start?

Ford does not currently require a monthly Ford subscription for the basic Remote Start/Stop function in the Ford app on compatible vehicles.

This is important because Ford also offers optional Connected Services, and it is easy to assume that all connected vehicle features require a subscription.

They do not.

Basic compatible features can include:

• Remote Start
• Remote Stop
• Remote Lock
• Remote Unlock
• Vehicle-status information
• Current mileage
• Fuel-level information
• Tire-pressure information

Separate premium services can have their own subscription costs.

What's the Catch With Free Ford Remote Start?

There isn't necessarily a subscription catch, but there are still several requirements.

Your Ford has to actually support the connected feature.

Remote start through the app depends on factors including:

• Model year
• Ford model
• Trim and equipment
• Connected modem hardware
• Modem activation
• Ford account status
• Vehicle software
• Network availability
• Vehicle conditions at the time you send the command

An older Ford without compatible connected hardware will not suddenly gain remote start simply because you download the app.

What Is the Ford App?

The Ford app is Ford's mobile vehicle-ownership app. It was previously known as the FordPass app.

For compatible vehicles, the Ford app can connect your smartphone with your vehicle and provide access to features such as:

• Remote Start and Stop
• Remote Lock and Unlock
• Vehicle location
• Fuel or battery information
• Tire-pressure information
• Odometer mileage
• Oil-life information
• Vehicle-health information
• Service scheduling
• Ford Rewards
• Available Connected Services

Learn more in our complete guide to what the Ford app is.

Is FordPass Remote Start Still Free?

Yes, but FordPass is now generally referred to as the Ford app.

If you see an older article, owner's guide, video, or forum post talking about FordPass remote start, it is referring to the connected ownership platform that has evolved into the current Ford app.

Ford currently identifies Remote Start/Stop as one of the free features available when a compatible vehicle is properly connected.

Do I Need FordPass Connect to Remote Start My Ford?

Many Ford vehicles use an embedded modem for connected features. Older Ford materials often refer to this hardware and service as FordPass Connect.

The important requirement is that your Ford has compatible connected hardware and that its modem is activated.

The modem allows your vehicle to communicate with Ford's network so a command can travel from your phone to your vehicle.

Without compatible connected hardware, app-based Remote Start will not be available.

Does Activating the Ford Modem Cost Money?

Activating the compatible vehicle modem for basic Ford app functionality does not mean you are automatically purchasing a paid Connected Service.

Modem activation establishes the connection used by available features such as:

• Remote Start/Stop
• Remote Lock/Unlock
• Vehicle status
• Fuel information
• Mileage
• Tire-pressure information
• Available Connected Services

Ford may also use that connection to show you optional services that have complimentary trials or separate subscription prices.

You can decide whether you want those additional services.

What Ford Connected Features Cost Money?

While basic Ford app Remote Start/Stop is currently complimentary on compatible vehicles, other Ford Connected Services can require payment.

Depending on your vehicle, optional paid services can include products such as:

• Ford BlueCruise
• Ford Connectivity Package
• Navigation-related services
• Premium connectivity features
• Other vehicle-specific digital services

Availability, complimentary trial periods, pricing, and functionality vary by vehicle.

Once your Ford is added to the app, Ford can show Connected Services available specifically for your VIN.

Is BlueCruise Required for Remote Start?

No. You do not need BlueCruise just to use basic Ford app Remote Start on an otherwise compatible vehicle.

BlueCruise is a separate Ford Connected Service providing hands-free highway driver-assistance capabilities on compatible vehicles and approved roadways.

Remote Start is a different feature.

A Ford can support remote starting through the app without having an active BlueCruise plan.

Do I Need the Ford Connectivity Package for Remote Start?

Basic Remote Start/Stop through the Ford app is separate from Ford's paid connectivity packages.

A connectivity package can add other eligible digital features and services, but you should not assume you must purchase that package simply to start a compatible Ford from your phone.

The easiest way to determine what is complimentary and what requires payment on your vehicle is to add the Ford to the app and review the VIN-specific available services.

Does Key-Fob Remote Start Cost Money?

Remote start from the physical key fob is different from Ford app remote start.

If your Ford is factory-equipped with a remote-start-capable key fob, you do not normally pay a monthly fee each time you use the key-fob remote-start function.

However, whether your vehicle has key-fob remote start depends on its equipment.

On some Ford models or trims, remote-start hardware or the appropriate key fob may be included as standard equipment. On others, it may be associated with an option package or different trim level.

Ford App Remote Start vs. Key-Fob Remote Start

What if My Ford Has App Remote Start but Not a Remote-Start Button on the Key?

A Ford can support remote starting through the Ford app even if the physical key fob does not have a dedicated remote-start button.

The two methods use different technology.

App remote start communicates through the vehicle's connected modem, while a traditional remote-start key fob communicates directly with the vehicle.

Check the Ford app after connecting your specific VIN to see which remote controls are supported.

Do I Need a Phone Data Plan to Use Ford Remote Start?

Your smartphone needs internet connectivity to communicate with Ford's connected network.

That connection may come from:

• Your normal cellular data plan
• Wi-Fi
• Another available internet connection

Ford does not provide your smartphone's mobile data service. Any normal costs associated with your wireless carrier remain separate from Ford app remote start.

Do I Need to Pay for a Vehicle Data Plan?

Basic compatible Remote Start/Stop does not mean you need to purchase every optional data or connectivity service available for the vehicle.

A vehicle may have optional connected features that use additional data-based services, but basic remote commands are handled separately on compatible vehicles.

Always review your specific Ford's Connected Services rather than assuming every modem-enabled feature is part of the same subscription.

Does Ford Remote Start Work Without Cell Service?

App-based remote start requires communication between:

1. Your smartphone
2. Ford's connected network
3. Your vehicle

If your phone has no usable internet connection or the vehicle cannot connect to the cellular network, a remote command may fail or be delayed.

Traditional key-fob remote start does not depend on a cellular network, but it has a much shorter operating range.

How Far Away Can I Start My Ford With the App?

Ford app remote start is not limited by normal key-fob range.

Because compatible commands travel through a connected network, you may be able to start your Ford while you are:

• Inside your house
• Inside your workplace
• At a restaurant
• Inside a shopping center
• Across a large parking lot

The phone and vehicle still require adequate connectivity.

See can I start my Ford from my phone? for a complete explanation.

Does Remote Start Work From Anywhere?

Not literally anywhere.

The remote-start request depends on cellular or internet connectivity. If your Ford is parked somewhere without an adequate vehicle network connection, the command may not be received.

There may also be vehicle conditions that prevent remote starting even when network service is available.

What Happens When I Start My Ford From the App?

On an eligible Ford, the app sends a start request through Ford's connected network.

A simplified version of the process looks like this:

1. You select Remote Start in the Ford app.
2. The command is sent through Ford's connected network.
3. Your vehicle receives the request.
4. The vehicle verifies that conditions allow remote starting.
5. The vehicle starts.
6. The app receives confirmation of the command when available.

During remote start, the vehicle remains secured and normal authorization is still required before driving.

Can Someone Steal My Ford After I Start It With My Phone?

Remote starting a Ford does not normally make the vehicle ready for anyone to simply drive away.

The vehicle remains subject to its normal security and driving-authorization requirements.

The driver still needs the appropriate:

• Key fob
• Authorized Phone As A Key on supported vehicles
• Other applicable vehicle authorization

Remote start is designed to prepare the vehicle while maintaining security.

Does Ford Remote Start Turn on the Heat?

Remote start allows the vehicle's climate-control system to begin preparing the cabin before you get inside.

Exactly how the climate system behaves depends on:

• Ford model
• Model year
• Climate-control system
• Outside temperature
• Vehicle settings
• Available comfort equipment

During cold weather, compatible vehicles may begin heating the cabin according to their configured remote-start climate settings.

Does Ford Remote Start Turn on the Air Conditioning?

On compatible vehicles, remote start can allow the climate-control system to begin cooling the cabin during hot weather.

This is one of the most convenient uses of remote start during a Missouri summer.

You can start the Ford shortly before leaving so the air conditioner has time to begin reducing the interior temperature.

Does Ford Remote Start Turn on Heated Seats?

Certain properly equipped Ford vehicles can activate climate-related comfort equipment during remote starting depending on vehicle settings and outside temperature.

Depending on the vehicle, these features may include:

• Heated seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Rear-window defrost
• Other cold-weather features

Not every Ford behaves the same way, so review the remote-start settings for your vehicle.

Can I Schedule Ford Remote Start?

Certain compatible Ford vehicles have supported scheduled remote-start functionality through the connected ownership experience.

This can be useful if you leave for work at approximately the same time every morning.

Feature availability depends on the vehicle and current Ford app functionality.

How Long Will My Ford Run After Remote Start?

Ford vehicles limit how long they run during a remote-start session rather than idling indefinitely.

Exact duration and available extensions can vary by model year and configuration.

The remote-start function is designed primarily to prepare the vehicle before you enter it, not to leave an unattended vehicle running indefinitely.

Does Remote Starting My Ford Use Gas?

Yes. If your gasoline or diesel engine is running, it is consuming fuel.

The amount used depends on factors such as:

• Engine
• Remote-start duration
• Outside temperature
• Climate-control demand
• Vehicle configuration

Remote start is primarily a convenience feature rather than a fuel-saving feature.

Does Remote Start Hurt the Engine?

Normal use of the factory remote-start system according to Ford's instructions is not inherently harmful to the engine.

There is generally no need to allow a modern Ford to idle for an excessive amount of time solely to "warm up" the engine.

Remote start can prepare the cabin, then you can drive normally while avoiding unnecessary heavy engine load until appropriate operating temperatures are reached.

Can I Remote Start My Ford in a Garage?

Never remote start or operate a gasoline or diesel Ford in an enclosed garage or other enclosed area where exhaust gases can accumulate.

Vehicle exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that can cause serious injury or death.

Only use remote start when the vehicle is located somewhere with adequate ventilation and it is otherwise safe to operate.

Does Remote Start Work on Ford Hybrids?

Compatible Ford hybrid vehicles can support Ford app remote functionality.

A hybrid may not behave exactly like a conventional gasoline vehicle because the hybrid system controls when the gasoline engine actually needs to run.

The vehicle can still begin preparing itself and the cabin when the compatible remote function is activated.

Does Remote Start Work on Ford Electric Vehicles?

Battery-electric Fords do not have a gasoline engine to remotely start, but compatible EVs provide connected cabin-preparation and vehicle-management functionality through the Ford app.

Depending on the vehicle, the app can provide access to information or controls associated with:

• Battery charge level
• Charging status
• Vehicle range
• Cabin conditioning
• Charging locations
• Vehicle status
• Connected Services

Is Ford Remote Start Free on an F-150?

Many recent connected Ford F-150 trucks can use the Ford app's complimentary basic Remote Start/Stop functionality when properly equipped and activated.

Current F-150 configurations can also offer physical remote-start equipment, depending on trim and options.

The exact features associated with your truck can be checked using its VIN in the Ford app.

Is Ford Remote Start Free on a Bronco?

Compatible connected Bronco models can use available Ford app remote features without purchasing a separate basic remote-start subscription.

Exact availability depends on the model year, trim, transmission, equipment, and connected hardware.

Is Ford Remote Start Free on an Explorer?

Many recent Ford Explorer models support complimentary basic Remote Start/Stop through the Ford app after the compatible vehicle modem is activated.

Additional subscription-based Connected Services can also be available on certain Explorer configurations, but those services are separate from basic remote start.

Is Ford Remote Start Free on an Expedition?

Recent compatible Ford Expedition models support Ford app remote start along with other connected ownership tools.

Depending on configuration, Expedition owners may have access to:

• Remote Start/Stop
• Remote Lock/Unlock
• Vehicle location
• Fuel information
• Vehicle status
• Connected Services

Is Ford Remote Start Free on a Ranger?

Many recent Ford Ranger models equipped with compatible connected vehicle technology support Ford app Remote Start/Stop.

Check the Ford app after adding your Ranger's VIN to determine which specific remote controls are available.

Is Ford Remote Start Free on a Maverick?

Compatible recent Ford Maverick models can support Ford app remote start and other basic connected features.

Available functionality varies by model year and configuration, so use the Ford app to verify your specific Maverick.

Can I Start My Ford From an Apple Watch?

Ford has expanded certain remote controls to compatible wearable devices.

Depending on your Ford and device, supported smartwatch functions can include:

• Remote Start
• Remote Lock
• Remote Unlock
• Fuel or battery information
• Vehicle location
• Horn and lights

The connected Ford still needs to meet the normal compatibility and activation requirements.

Is Apple Watch Ford Remote Start Free?

The wearable interface extends compatible basic remote vehicle controls rather than turning basic remote start into a separate subscription service.

Your normal smartphone, device, wireless-carrier, and connectivity costs are separate from Ford's basic remote-start feature.

Can I Start My Ford From My Phone's Lock Screen?

Ford has added convenient lock-screen access for certain compatible smartphones.

Supported controls can include quick access to:

• Remote Start
• Lock
• Unlock

Availability depends on your phone, operating system, Ford app version, and vehicle.

Is Phone As A Key Free Too?

Ford currently includes Phone As A Key among free connected features on compatible vehicles, but Phone As A Key and Remote Start are not the same thing.

Remote Start allows your phone to send a start command.

Phone As A Key allows an appropriately equipped and configured smartphone to function as an authorized vehicle key on supported models.

A vehicle may have remote start without supporting Phone As A Key.

Why Is Ford Asking Me to Pay for Connected Services if Remote Start Is Free?

This is one of the most common sources of confusion.

The Ford app can display both complimentary vehicle features and optional paid services in the same place.

For example:

Seeing a paid service offer inside the Ford app does not necessarily mean you are being charged for basic remote start.

Why Isn't Remote Start Showing in My Ford App?

If your Ford is supposed to support remote start but the option does not appear, check several things.

• Make sure you are signed into the correct Ford account.
• Verify that the correct vehicle is added.
• Confirm the VIN is correct.
• Make sure the vehicle modem has been activated.
• Complete any pending vehicle-authorization request.
• Update the Ford app.
• Verify that the specific vehicle supports remote start.

Older Ford vehicles may not have the hardware required for connected remote-start commands.

Why Did Ford Remote Start Stop Working?

A remote-start failure does not necessarily mean the feature now requires payment.

Possible causes include:

• Weak cellular connectivity
• Phone connectivity problems
• Vehicle modem issues
• Ford app account problems
• An app update being required
• A weak 12-volt vehicle battery
• A vehicle condition preventing remote start
• The hood, doors, or other vehicle systems not meeting remote-start requirements
• A temporary connected-service interruption

If basic Remote Start disappears or stops functioning, troubleshooting the vehicle and connection is usually more appropriate than assuming Ford has started charging for the feature.

Do I Need Ford Rewards to Use Remote Start?

No. Ford Rewards and remote start are separate parts of the Ford ownership experience.

Ford Rewards is Ford's loyalty program.

Ford app Remote Start is a connected vehicle feature.

You can use compatible remote-start functionality without spending Ford Rewards Points.

Learn more about what Ford Rewards Points are.

Does Remote Start Use Ford Rewards Points?

No. Starting your compatible Ford from the app does not deduct Ford Rewards Points from your account each time you use the feature.

Ford Rewards Points are instead available for eligible Ford products and services according to the Rewards program rules.

Ford Remote Start Cost FAQ

Does Ford remote start cost money?

Ford currently provides basic Remote Start/Stop through the Ford app as a complimentary connected feature on compatible vehicles after the necessary modem and account activation.

Is Ford app remote start free?

Yes. Basic Remote Start/Stop is currently listed by Ford among the free features available on compatible connected vehicles.

Is there a monthly fee for Ford remote start?

Ford does not currently require a separate monthly subscription simply for basic Ford app Remote Start/Stop on an eligible connected vehicle.

Do I have to pay for FordPass to remote start my vehicle?

The former FordPass app is now called the Ford app. Basic compatible Remote Start/Stop does not currently require a separate Ford remote-start subscription.

Do I have to pay for FordPass Connect?

The compatible modem connection used for basic app remote controls is not the same thing as purchasing optional paid Ford Connected Services.

Does Ford remote start require BlueCruise?

No. BlueCruise is a separate Connected Service and is not required simply to use compatible Ford app remote start.

Do I need the Ford Connectivity Package for remote start?

No. Basic Ford app Remote Start/Stop is separate from optional paid connectivity packages on compatible vehicles.

Does key-fob remote start have a monthly fee?

No recurring subscription is normally required to use factory-equipped remote start from the vehicle's physical key fob. Whether the vehicle includes the feature depends on its equipment.

Do I need cell service for Ford app remote start?

Yes, app-based remote commands rely on internet and vehicle-network connectivity. Traditional key-fob remote start does not require cellular service.

Can I remote start my Ford from far away for free?

On a compatible connected vehicle, basic app remote start is currently complimentary and is not restricted to traditional key-fob range, although network connectivity is required.

Does Ford charge every time I use remote start?

No. Ford does not charge a per-use fee each time you send a basic Remote Start command through the Ford app on a compatible vehicle.

Does remote start use Ford Rewards Points?

No. Using Ford app Remote Start does not deduct Ford Rewards Points.

Is Ford remote start free on an F-150?

Compatible connected F-150 trucks can use the Ford app's basic complimentary Remote Start/Stop feature after proper activation.

Is Ford remote start free on a Bronco?

Compatible connected Bronco models can use complimentary Ford app remote start. Availability depends on the specific model year and equipment.

Is Ford remote start free on an Explorer?

Compatible connected Explorer models can use the Ford app's complimentary basic Remote Start/Stop feature after activation.

Is Ford remote start free on a Maverick?

Compatible connected Maverick models can support Ford app Remote Start/Stop without a separate basic remote-start subscription.

Why is Ford asking me to buy a subscription?

The Ford app also manages optional Connected Services such as BlueCruise and certain connectivity products. An offer for one of those services does not necessarily mean basic Remote Start/Stop now requires payment.

Get Help With Ford Remote Start at Chuck Anderson Ford

If you're not sure whether your Ford supports free app-based remote start, Chuck Anderson Ford in Excelsior Springs can help you understand the features available on your specific vehicle.

For compatible Ford vehicles, basic Remote Start/Stop through the Ford app is currently complimentary. The important steps are making sure your vehicle has the correct hardware and that everything is properly connected.

We can help you understand:

• Whether your Ford supports app remote start
• How to download and set up the Ford app
• How to add your Ford using its VIN
• How to activate the vehicle modem
• Which remote features your Ford supports
• Which Connected Services are complimentary
• Which optional Connected Services may require payment

If you're buying a new Ford, setting up the app before you leave the dealership can make it easier to begin using available features immediately.

Continue your research with what is the Ford app?, can I start my Ford from my phone?, and how do I add my Ford to the Ford app?

You can also learn more about Ford Rewards Points and how Ford Rewards works.

Return to the Ford Ownership Resource Center for more answers about connected Ford features, warranties, maintenance, Ford Rewards, and long-term Ford ownership.

Ford app and remote-start availability varies by vehicle model, model year, trim, transmission, equipment, modem hardware, software, account status, smartphone compatibility, and network availability. Ford currently identifies basic Remote Start/Stop as a complimentary feature on compatible connected vehicles, while certain additional Connected Services may require a paid plan. Connected features, pricing, trials, and services can change. Wireless-carrier charges associated with your own smartphone service are separate. Never remotely start or operate a gasoline or diesel vehicle in an enclosed space where exhaust gases can accumulate.