Nissan remote start: Which used models include it?

Remote start is one of the most sought-after features in modern vehicles, offering convenience and comfort with just the push of a button. A remote start system may greatly improve the comfort of your everyday drive whether you’re warming up your vehicle on a chilly morning or cooling it down on a hot summer afternoon. Nissan, a brand known for innovation and value, has equipped many of its models with remote start capabilities over the years. But which used Nissan models include this feature? If you’re browsing nissan for sale listings, understanding which models come with remote start can help you narrow down your search and make a more informed decision. In this article, we’ll break down the used Nissan models that are most likely to come equipped with remote start, how the feature works, and what to look for when buying used.

What Is Nissan Remote Start and How Does It Work?

Nissan’s remote start system allows drivers to start their car from outside the vehicle using either a key fob or, in some cases, a smartphone app through NissanConnect. This technology preconditions the vehicle’s climate by activating the heating or cooling system, so your car is comfortable before you even open the door. Typically, remote start is tied to higher trim levels or added via premium packages. It’s also important to know that not all trims or years offer this feature standard—some may require upgrades or specific configurations.

Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima is one of the brand’s best-selling sedans, and it has offered remote start on select trims since the early 2010s. Specifically, the remote start feature started appearing more consistently from the 2013 model year onward.

• 2013–2015 Altima: Remote start was available on SL trims and optional on SV trims.
• 2016–2018 Altima: Remote start became more widely available on SV and SL trims, and in some cases, part of optional convenience or technology packages.
• 2019–2021 Altima: Remote start was included on SR, SV, SL, and Platinum trims. Some models also offered integration through the NissanConnect Services app.

If you’re considering a used Altima, check the trim and optional packages, as lower trims like the S or base models typically do not include remote start.

Nissan Rogue

The Rogue is one of Nissan’s most popular SUVs, and it began offering remote start around the same time as the Altima.

• 2014–2016 Rogue: Remote start was available as part of the SL Premium Package.
• 2017–2020 Rogue: Remote start became standard on the SV and SL trims. The introduction of the NissanConnect Services further enhanced remote start functionality via smartphone.
• 2021 Rogue: The redesigned model offers remote start standard on SV and higher trims, making it a great choice for buyers looking for this convenience in a used vehicle.

Because the Rogue is a top seller, used inventory is abundant, and many mid-to-high trim Rogues will likely have this feature.

Nissan Maxima

The Maxima, Nissan’s sportier full-size sedan, has long been equipped with advanced technology, including remote start.

• 2012–2015 Maxima: Remote start was included in higher trims like the SV with Premium Package.
• 2016–2018 Maxima: Remote start became more widespread, available on SL, SR, and Platinum trims.
• 2019–2021 Maxima: The feature continued to be standard on most trims except for the base S trim.

Given the Maxima’s position as a near-luxury sedan, you’re more likely to find remote start across used models from this line.

Nissan Murano

The Murano is a stylish crossover that also began incorporating remote start in the early-to-mid 2010s.

• 2015–2016 Murano: Remote start became available on SL and Platinum trims.
• 2017–2020 Murano: SV trims and above typically included remote start. It was also available via NissanConnect Services on newer models.
• 2021 Murano: Remote start became more commonly included across SV, SL, and Platinum trims.

The Murano’s tech-forward design makes it a reliable bet if you’re looking for a used SUV with remote start capabilities.

Nissan Pathfinder

This midsize SUV, known for its family-friendly design, also features remote start on several of its trims.

• 2014–2016 Pathfinder: Remote start was optional on SV and standard on SL and Platinum trims.
• 2017–2020 Pathfinder: The SV trim and above typically came with remote start.
• 2021 Pathfinder: While the model underwent significant redesign for 2022, earlier used models still offer remote start on SV trims and above.

Due to its popularity among families, used Pathfinders with this feature are not hard to find, especially in the higher trims.

Nissan Sentra

The compact Sentra offers affordability, but remote start was not as widely available in earlier models.

• 2016–2018 Sentra: Remote start was limited to SR and SL trims and often required a technology or premium package.
• 2019–2021 Sentra: Remote start became more common in SR trims and available through NissanConnect Services in newer models.

If you’re searching for a budget-friendly used car with remote start, the Sentra is a good choice—but be sure to verify trim and options.

Nissan Titan

For truck lovers, the Nissan Titan offers impressive towing capability and a solid list of comfort features.

• 2016–2019 Titan: Remote start was available on SV trims and standard on SL and Platinum Reserve.
• 2020–2021 Titan: The feature became more widespread and could also be accessed through the NissanConnect Services app.

Customers seeking both practicality and contemporary convenience are frequently the target market for Titan trucks with a remote start.

Nissan Frontier

The Frontier is a practical midsize pickup, but it historically lagged behind in tech features compared to other Nissan models.

• 2019–2021 Frontier: Remote start became more accessible on SV trims and above, especially with technology or value packages.
• Earlier Models: Prior to 2019, remote start was typically not available unless added through aftermarket systems.

If you’re eyeing a used Frontier, aim for 2019 and newer models if remote start is a must-have feature.

Nissan Leaf

As an electric vehicle, the Nissan Leaf doesn’t have a traditional engine to start, but it does offer remote climate control.

• 2013–2017 Leaf: Higher trims allowed remote climate activation via the NissanConnect EV app.
• 2018–2021 Leaf: Continued to offer remote climate functions, though not termed as “remote start” in the traditional sense.

If your goal is cabin comfort before driving, the Leaf still delivers similar benefits, though through slightly different systems.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Nissan with Remote Start

When searching for a used Nissan with remote start, keep these tips in mind:

• Trim level matters: The feature is typically included in SV, SL, SR, and Platinum trims.
• Check for tech packages: Some trims require a tech or convenience package to include remote start.
• Ask for confirmation: If buying from a private seller or smaller dealership, ask to see the feature in action or verify through the VIN’s equipment list.
• Look for NissanConnect: Remote start via a smartphone app may be available for models with NissanConnect Services. It gives users more control and freedom.

Conclusion

Remote start is a valuable convenience feature that many drivers appreciate especially in extreme weather conditions. Nissan has incorporated remote start into several of its popular models over the past decade, including the Altima, Rogue, Maxima, Murano, Pathfinder, Sentra, Titan, and more. When looking through nissan for sale listings, focus on trims like SV, SL, and Platinum, which are more likely to come equipped with this technology. By understanding which used Nissan models include remote start, you can make a more confident and satisfying purchase—one that keeps you comfortable from the moment you leave your front door.

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