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Learn how to set up GM remote start for GMC and Buick vehicles in Alberta.

Davis Blog Jan 08th, 2026

Excited about the remote start features in your new GMC or Buick, but not quite sure how to set everything up properly? You’re not alone — and you’ve come to the right place. Learn how to set-up your GM remote start setting for hot & cold Alberta weather.

Almost every new GM vehicle comes equipped with both classic and modern remote start features designed to prepare your vehicle for extreme temperature changes. And if you live in Southern Alberta, you already know how fast the weather can change (“Give it 15 minutes,” am I right? 😄).

Let’s walk through the GM Remote Start settings that can make the difference between a lukewarm start to your day and a truly comfortable drive.

Step 1: Make Sure Your Remote Start Presets Are Turned On in the Vehicle Settings

Many new GM vehicles arrive from the factory with some comfort features turned OFF by default, but enabling them is quick and easy.

  1. Tap the Settings icon on your infotainment (stereo) screen

  2. Select Vehicle

  3. Scroll down to find the following sections:

    • Climate and Air Quality

    • Remote Lock, Unlock and Start

These two menus control how your vehicle prepares itself during a remote start.

Step 2: Enable Auto Heated & Cooled Seats (If Equipped)

Under Remote Lock, Unlock and Start, toggle ON:

✔ Remote Start Auto Heated/Cooled Seats (If Equipped)

Here’s what this setting does:

  • Cold weather

    • Activates heated seats (medium setting)

    • Turns on front and rear defrost

    • Activates heated mirrors

  • Hot weather

    • Turns on ventilated (cooled) seats

    • Starts the air conditioning to reduce cabin temperature

This is one of the most important settings for winter and summer comfort in Alberta.

Step 3: Adjust Climate & Air Quality Settings for Maximum Comfort

Next, head to Climate and Air Quality.

Here you have the ability to adjust the speed of your defrost fans, as well as the electronic heating of your rear window.

  • 🔥 Defrost Fan Speed

    • Set to High for the most most impact.

  • 🪟 Rear Window Defogger

    • Turn ON to activate rear defrost and heated mirrors during remote start

Important: Every feature you want to activate must be toggled ON in this menu.

Temperature Thresholds to Know (GM Vehicles)

Most newer GMC and Buick models follow these temperature guidelines:

  • ❄ Heated features activate at approximately +10°C and below

  • ☀ Cooled features activate at approximately +25°C and above

These automatic thresholds help your vehicle decide whether to heat or cool the cabin when you use remote start.

Why These Settings Matter in Southern Alberta

From freezing winter mornings to scorching summer afternoons, Southern Alberta weather keeps us on our toes. Taking just a few minutes to adjust your GM Remote Start settings ensures your vehicle is ready for whatever the day brings.

A properly configured remote start means:

  • Faster windshield clearing

  • A comfortable cabin temperature

  • Less wear on HVAC components

  • A better overall driving experience

Need Help Setting This Up?

If you drive a GMC or Buick and want help setting up your remote start features, the team at Davis GMC Buick in Lethbridge is always happy to assist.

Have a specific question feel free to ask  Jarrett King, our Technology Specialist.

 

 

 

 

 

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