Whether it is a cold, cold winter morning or a hot summer afternoon, there are plenty of reasons why we do not want to venture out into the elements to get our cars running. Nothing is worse than a hot or cold blast of air from a freshly started vehicle, in addition to the uncomfortable confines like metal and plastic on human skin. In the past, there was no other solution than to run out to the vehicle, crank it up and wait several minutes for the interior climate to acclimate. Nowadays, however, we can take care of this problem from afar with remote start systems that come standard in many newer model vehicles. A variety of mobile applications have also been developed to allow seamless access to this function from our smartphones. Below, we will discuss three apps that provide this service and what each can offer.

OnStar Remote Link

Those who have OnStar installed in their vehicles know that it can be a valuable tool in many situations. From concierge service to emergency roadside assistance and anti-theft mechanisms, OnStar has become standard in many vehicles throughout North America. If you currently have the OnStar Directions and Connections or Safe and Sound packages, then the OnStar Remote Link app will work with your vehicle. Users can not only view valuable data about their vehicles such as oil life, current amount of gas and estimated fuel range, but they can also start their vehicles or set them to automatically turn on at a specific time each day. Great for those who live in harsh climates, the OnStar Remote Link app is available for Android and iOS devices.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gm.onstar.mobile.mylink

Viper SmartStart

Designed for use with the SmartSmart system (non OEM product, sold separately for $300), the Viper SmartStart system allows users to remotely start their vehicles – regardless of make and model. Users do not need to be close to the vehicle in question to power it up, as cellular technology allows remote access from anywhere in the world. This makes it a perfect solution for those who need to lend the car while on vacation or business, or to simply move it out of the driveway to make room for guests. You will also be able to use the Viper SmartStart app to find your car in the event you forgot where you parked and can activate the car alarm automatically if suspicious activity is detected. The Viper SmartStart app is available for both Android and Apple devices.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.directed.android.viper

Hyundai Blue Link

Finally, anyone with select Hyundai models can enjoy a remote start solution from their smartphones, thanks to Hyundai Blue Link. A Blue Link subscription is needed to access this service, but it provides an array of utilities besides simple remote starting capabilities. Users will be able to remotely access their horns and lights, send points of interest directly to your Hyundai’s navigation system, find your car in the event you cannot remember your parking spot and access maintenance records that are synced to the Blue Link system.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hmausa.bluelink

Featured images:

•  License: Creative Commons image source
•  License: Image author owned
•  License: Image author owned
•  License: Image author owned

The author of this post, Ben Willow is an employee at Park N Jet. He is very passionate about cars and bikes and he enjoys travelling to different places and learning about them. Visit www.parknjetseatac.com to know more about his opinions.