Yes, you can remotely start your 2018 Malibu with your phone if your car is equipped with GM’s remote start capability and you have an active connected-services plan linked to the Chevrolet app. Without those features, a phone won’t start the car.
What you need to start your Malibu from a phone
To use a smartphone to start the Malibu remotely, several prerequisites must be in place.
- Vehicle compatibility: the Malibu must be equipped with factory remote start or GM’s Remote Start via OnStar/Connected Services.
- Active connected services: an active OnStar/GM Connected Services subscription and a linked MyChevrolet/ Chevrolet Account for your vehicle.
- Smartphone software: the Chevrolet app (or OnStar app, depending on setup) installed on a compatible iOS or Android device and connected to your vehicle.
- Connectivity: the car’s cellular connection and your phone’s data connection must be available; both systems need to communicate with GM servers.
- Proper vehicle state: the car must be parked with doors closed, the hood closed, and the engine off at the time you initiate remote start (and in some configurations, the doors may need to be locked).
- Regional availability and updates: remote-start capabilities can vary by region and may require up-to-date software on the car and app.
If you meet these requirements, you can initiate remote start from your phone using the Chevrolet app or OnStar services, depending on how your Malibu is configured. If you don’t meet these prerequisites, you won’t be able to start the car with your phone.
How to start your Malibu with the Chevrolet app
Follow these steps to start your Malibu remotely through the mobile app.
- Open the Chevrolet app and sign in with the account that is linked to your vehicle.
- Verify that your Malibu appears in the app as a connected vehicle.
- Tap Remote Start in the app; if you want, adjust climate controls or preconditioning options.
- Confirm the command; you should receive a notification that the engine has started remotely.
- To stop remote start, use the app’s Stop Remote Start option or allow the system to time out as configured.
- When you’re ready to drive, unlock the doors and enter the vehicle, then start your drive using normal methods (the key fob or push-button start with the fob inside).
The remote-start capability relies on the vehicle’s connected services and your account’s permissions. If the app can’t communicate with the car, check your subscription status, account linkage, and the car’s connection status.
Limitations and safety considerations
Be aware of practical limits and safety rules when using remote start on your Malibu.
- Security and accessibility: remote start typically requires the vehicle to be parked with doors closed and locked; starting with an open door or unlocked state is usually blocked for security reasons.
- Run duration: a remote-start session runs for a limited period (often around 10–15 minutes) unless extended by app settings or a new command; the engine will shut off automatically when the time expires or if you stop it from the app.
- Drive authorization: you must have the key fob present inside the vehicle to drive away; remote start does not override the vehicle’s anti-theft system.
- Service status: remote start requires an active subscription and a functioning data connection; expired services or outages can disable remote-start capability.
- Regional and model variations: some 2018 Malibu trims or markets may have limited remote-start features or require dealer activation.
If you don’t currently have remote start or an active connected-services plan, contact a Chevrolet dealer to discuss activation options or consider upgrading to a plan that supports remote features.
Summary
In short, starting your 2018 Chevy Malibu with your phone is possible if your car is equipped for remote start and you have an active connected-services account linked to the Chevrolet app. You’ll need a compatible smartphone, a working data connection, and an active subscription. If these conditions aren’t met, you’ll have to rely on the traditional key fob or consider enabling remote-start services through a dealer or GM’s OnStar/Connected Services program.
Can you start a 2018 Chevy Malibu with your phone?
Um even better is like the remote start. Function. So your car could be in the garage. It could be um far down the street out of reach out of key fob.
Is myChevrolet remote start free?
Remote start requires GM factory-installed and enabled remote start system. See onstar.com for details and limitations. 12 Requires subscription to Remote Access Plan or Unlimited Access Plan.
Is it possible to remotely start my car with myChevrolet?
The myChevrolet app* enables you to use your smartphone to interact with your vehicle from wherever you are. You can remote start, unlock and lock your vehicle, view your fuel life, EV range, and tire pressure, and more on properly equipped vehicles.
Does 2018 Malibu have remote start?
2018 Chevrolet Malibu: Trim Levels
To get the most for your money, consider the top-of-the-line 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Premier, which comes fully loaded with features such as heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, and premium Bose® audio system.