Remote start and check engine light.

[natsb800@aol.com]

My check engine light randomly came on last week but I checked my fluids, had the oil changed recently and my car seems to be running fine. I did notice today that for some reason my remote start won't work. It just flashes the lights once or twice when I try but that's it. No honking or anything. Could the two things be related? Any help is appreciated! I don't want to pay Aton to get it looked at if it's minor. Thank you!

Natalie


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[sx sonic]

The two are likely related. Fault codes can disable certain features.

For instance some codes will cause the cooling fan to run anytime the engine is on. Such codes will surely disable the remote start as a safety feature.

Get the code checked out

 

[natsb800@aol.com]

Would the code show on my car? For instance when the oil needed changed it had a code on my dashboard. I feel like I saw the code 80 on my dashboard


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[Italianjoe1]

No, take the car to be scanned. You could visit a local parts store (Advance auto, Autozone, etc) and they will scan it for free, but don't listen to what they say might be the problem, as they are just going off of a 'common fix' listing which doesn't apply to all cars. Get the actual code that the car has and we can be of more help.

 

[sonic007]

100% the check engine light caused the remote start not to work. Just get it scanned real quick.

 

[natsb800@aol.com]

Where can I get it scanned without them charging me $60-$80 though? Does autozone do it?


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[natsb800@aol.com]

I will ave to find out what the exact code is. I will see if it shows up on my dashboard


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[sonic007]

The code will only show up through a scanner. You should be able to go to any automotive store and they shouldnt charge you. Pep boys, autozone, discount auto...etc

 

[natsb800@aol.com]

Oh weird. Because my code showed up when it needed an oil change. Dang cars lol.


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[SonicQueen]

Is your OnStar service still active? If so, all you need to do is hit the blue button and ask the Advisor to run a diagnostic on your car and give you the code. Included in your basic OnStar trial.

 

[River_Rat]

The oil change code is the only one that does show up so far as I'm aware. It's pretty silly, really.

 

[laborsmith]

Oil change code showing up independent of other codes makes sense to me. I suppose there could be a check oil light instead, but either one being independent of check engine lights does not seem silly to me.


Laborsmith

 

[River_Rat]

I understand them being independent. I understand at least one reason why the engine codes are not displayed: to encourage owners to head to the dealer for a diagnostic. But to display the oil change indicator as a "code" instead of displaying "change oil" or some other type of indicator seems to be motivated by a desire to scare owners into taking their car to the dealer for an oil change. Perhaps there is some other reason that escapes me.

The latter could be resolved by owners reading their manuals, but we know how uncommon that is.

It is certainly a debatable issue, but this sums it up for me pretty well. http://jalopnik.com/5875751/why-the-check-engine-light-must-be-banned

 

[natsb800@aol.com]

I'm not sure if I ever got a free OnStar trial. I was never told if one when I bought the car.


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[sx sonic]

I'm not sure if I ever got a free OnStar trial. I was never told if one when I bought the car.


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If you bought it brand new then yes, you got a free 6 month trial (i think It's 6mo), it just has to be activated by pushing the ONstar button and answering a few questions.

Then you get a monthly status email (tire psi, any fault codes (CEL), and some other stuff). You can also use the button on the mirror to request codes if you have a CEL. Get turn by turn directions, remote vehicle unlocking, and of course the safety features.


As mentioned earlier the only way to get the fault code is with a scanner (with the exception of the "code 82" which just means you need an oil change).

Go to one of the previously mentioned auto stores and get the code read for free, just be sure to have it written down.

Then report back and we'll see if we can give you any further assistance.

 

[laborsmith]

Is the three month free trial off available for the Sonic? If so, that could be a choice unless you have to give a credit card number in which case I recommend pass. If bought new and not as part of a fleet order the Sonic has OnStar.

FWIW, OnStar is GM's most profitable division. I am sure I have no idea why.


Laborsmith

 

[Yogi]

Welcome Natalie! Tell us a little more about your Sonic, like hatch/sedan, colors, etc.

And of course, pictures are much welcomed. Pictures of any delectable goodies that you can cook are even more appreciated!

Also, FWIW I think the Onstar rear view mirrors have a little green light that lights up when the system is active/subscribed. I don't have that anymore- Mr. Ranger will definitely find me if I were stranded, I swear he has a tracking device on me!

 

[natsb800@aol.com]

I haven't had a chance to get it checked yet. The light keeps going on and off so I haven't worried about it and California doesn't let autozone do it anymore. So trying to find time had been a pain. But idk why my check engine light goes on and off.


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[Chevrolet Customer Care]

Hey natsb800 if you need help locating a dealership or setting up an appointment to get the engine light issue diagnosed please send me a private message with your VIN, name, mileage and zip code or preferred dealership, and I will assist you. Have a great holiday!

Jackie
Chevrolet Customer Care