Hey, everyone! This is my comprehensive guide of how to install remote start on your P3 Volvo.
During this process, I will link to the creator of P3Tool’s website for you to understand the compatibility with your vehicle.
Before I provide the instructions, I believe it is valuable for you to understand what remote start looks like on a P3 Volvo. I was under the wrong impression before I started this project.
P3Tool has incredible value and Jonny did a great job with the software. I have seen a few people attempting to add reverse cameras, and other features to their cars. Look no further, as this guide will be the A-Z process of how to either add remote start, or modify other features on your car. I now realize that this rabbit hole is far beyond my 19 year old brain, and I would suggest contacting Johnny himself for any questions you may have 🙂
Remote start (also called ERS for Engine Remote Start) is the ability to start your car’s engine from your key fob.
Volvo’s rendition of remote start on P3 Volvo’s isn’t nearly as good as you’d think, but for the vast majority of people, It could be useful.
This process works for both the 5 button key fob, and the 6 button PCC (personal car communicator) remote.
This is how it works. With your key, you press the lock button. Your car will lock. Within two or three seconds, press and hold the exterior lighting button. Hold the exterior lighting button until the turn signal indicators start blinking. Then you can let go. I call this the “bomb phase” because the car looks like It’s about to explode 🙂
As a reminder, this works for both types of keys. The 5 button key shown above, and the 6 button PCC.
Your car has now started. Your car will be locked, and the engine with run for 15 minutes. The car will use your previous climate settings to heat up the car.
I live in Colorado where cold temperatures occur for a significant part of the year. My tip would be that before you shut off your car the night before, set your heat to high, and fan speed to full. My car has the heated steering wheel, and I set this to automatically turn on below a certain temperature (I’m pretty sure it’s 46 degrees F) in the climate settings on my car.
However, one minor frustration I have with this is the inability to defrost the windshield in any way. You cannot set the air to blow on the windshield. You can only warm the cabin. Which, I suppose makes sense. By the time the 15 minutes is over your oil/coolant will be a little warmer and can speed up the process when you do get in the car.
My only gripe is that from my understanding it doesn’t remember the history of the rear heated seats. Only the front seats. That can be an annoyance for young passengers on the way to school. Ask me how I know.
Once you open any of the doors, the engine shuts off. So, you’ll need to start your car again manually. Not a big deal.
Still sound enticing? Here’s how to install it. Be advised, this may be a multiple day process.