Japanese Honda owners can now pre-warm their cars with a dedicated remote or smartphone app, but the convenience comes at a separate cost. For years, drivers in the US have taken remote engine start for granted, with the feature built into most new Honda models at no extra cost. In Japan, however, it’s a different story.
Honda has just launched an official “Remote Control Engine Starter” as a standalone accessory, bringing the convenience many American buyers already enjoy to its domestic market. The new device is compatible with a broad swath of Honda’s Japanese lineup, including popular models such as the Civic and Odyssey. There is a catch, though - most of these models need to have rolled off the assembly line fairly recently to make the cut.
Some exceptions apply, however, such as the Vezel where the accessory is available for all units built since April 2021. The new fob is separate from the key and includes dedicated Start and Stop buttons, along with a built-in LED and an audible buzzer to confirm whether the car has started or if the fob’s battery is running low. In addition to firing up the engine, the system also activates features like climate control, heated mirrors, and window defroster, depending on the vehicle’s spec.
Japanese Honda owners can select a warm-up duration of 10, 20, or 30 minutes, which could prove especially handy during the cold mornings of Northern Japan. The Remote Control Engine Starter by Honda Access is available in Japan for ¥33,000, roughly $210 at current exchange rates, with a required mounting attachment priced at ¥3,300 (about $21). Another option for Japanese Honda owners who want to enjoy a pre-heated cabin is to remotely start the engine from their smartphone without the need of a physical fob.
However, this requires a paid subscription plan and the Honda Remote Control Engine Starter app. This allows users to control various aspects of their vehicle's climate system from the comfort of their own home. The subscription plan is not explicitly stated in the information provided, but it is clear that Honda is providing an additional convenience option for its Japanese owners.
The introduction of remote engine start as a standalone accessory in Japan highlights the varying needs and preferences of different markets when it comes to automotive features. While this convenience may be seen as a luxury by some, others will appreciate the ability to pre-warm their vehicles before embarking on a cold winter morning.
