What is RVS Disable History in an OBD Scanner? A Comprehensive Guide

Remote Vehicle Start (RVS) is a convenient feature that allows you to start your car from a distance, especially useful in extreme weather conditions. However, you might encounter situations where your RVS suddenly stops working. When troubleshooting this issue, especially with modern vehicles, an OBD scanner becomes an indispensable tool. One crucial piece of information an OBD scanner can reveal is the “RVS Disable History.” But what exactly is RVS Disable History, and how can it help you diagnose problems? This article will delve into understanding RVS Disable History within the context of OBD scanners, ensuring you’re well-equipped to tackle remote start issues.

Understanding RVS Disable History

RVS Disable History is essentially a log or record kept by your vehicle’s computer system, specifically the Body Control Module (BCM) and Engine Control Module (ECM), of all the instances where the remote start function was intentionally disabled or prevented from initiating. Think of it as a detailed report card of every failed remote start attempt, noting down the reasons for each failure.

Why is this history important? Because modern vehicles are designed with numerous safety and operational parameters that must be met before remote start is engaged. If any of these parameters are not within the acceptable range, the system will prevent remote start for safety or to prevent potential damage. Instead of simply failing silently, the system often records the specific condition that caused the RVS to be disabled. This is where the RVS Disable History becomes invaluable for diagnostics.

By accessing this history using an OBD scanner, you can quickly pinpoint the potential cause of your RVS malfunction, saving you time and potentially unnecessary repairs. Without this history, you might be left guessing and “throwing parts at it,” as the original article mentions, which can be costly and inefficient.

Common Reasons for RVS Disable History

The conditions that can trigger an RVS disable and be recorded in the history are varied and designed to protect your vehicle and ensure safe operation. Based on service information, common reasons include:

• Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is illuminated: If your check engine light is on, the RVS system is typically disabled. This is because an active diagnostic trouble code (DTC) signaling an engine or emissions issue might prevent safe remote starting.
• Vehicle in Valet Mode: Valet mode often restricts certain vehicle functions, including remote start, for security reasons when your car is parked by someone else.
• Exceeding Remote Start Attempts: To prevent excessive idling and potential security risks, the system might limit the number of consecutive remote start attempts (often to two).
• Hazard Switch ON or Hazard Switch DTC: If your hazard lights are activated or there’s a fault in the hazard light system, RVS may be disabled.
• Hood Ajar Status or Hood Ajar DTC: A common culprit! If the system detects that the hood is not properly closed (even if it seems closed to the naked eye), RVS will be disabled. This is a safety feature to prevent starting the engine while someone might be working under the hood.
• Content Theft Deterrent (CTD) System Alarm Trigger: If the car alarm system has been triggered, RVS will likely be disabled as a security measure.
• Excessive Engine RPM or Coolant Temperature: These conditions indicate an abnormal engine state that prevents safe remote starting.
• Accelerator Pedal Position Greater Than 0 Percent: If the system detects that the accelerator pedal is being pressed, it will prevent remote start.
• Vehicle Not in Park (P): For safety, RVS only operates when the vehicle is confirmed to be in Park.
• Vehicle Theft Deterrent Malfunction: Issues with the vehicle’s anti-theft system can also disable RVS.
• Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control System DTC: Problems within the transmission shift lock system can prevent remote start.
• Vehicle Speed Sensor Signal Detected: If the system detects vehicle movement, it will prevent remote start, as the vehicle should be stationary.

Alt text: An OBD2 scanner tool is plugged into the OBD2 port of a car, ready to read diagnostic information including RVS Disable History.

How to Check RVS Disable History with an OBD Scanner

To access the RVS Disable History, you’ll need an OBD2 scanner. The process generally involves these steps:

1. Connect the OBD2 Scanner: Locate the OBD2 port in your vehicle (usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side) and plug in your scanner.
2. Turn on Ignition (Key ON, Engine OFF): Turn your key to the “ON” position without starting the engine. This powers up the vehicle’s computer systems, allowing the scanner to communicate.
3. Navigate the Scanner Menu: Using your scanner, navigate to the diagnostic menu. Look for options like “Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs),” “Data Stream,” “Vehicle Information,” or similar terms. The exact menu names will vary depending on your scanner brand and model.
4. Look for RVS or Remote Start Data: Within the diagnostic menus, you’ll want to find sections related to “Body Control Module (BCM)” or “Remote Functions.” From there, look for “RVS Disable History,” “Remote Vehicle Start History,” or similar data parameters. Consult your scanner’s manual for specific guidance on locating this information.
5. Review the History: Once you find the RVS Disable History data, the scanner will display any recorded reasons for remote start failures. These will often be codes or descriptions corresponding to the conditions listed earlier (hood ajar, DTCs, etc.).

By interpreting the RVS Disable History, you can focus your troubleshooting efforts on the specific system or sensor that is causing the issue. For example, if the history shows “Hood Ajar,” you know to inspect the hood ajar switch and its related wiring.

Conclusion

Understanding and utilizing RVS Disable History through an OBD scanner is a powerful diagnostic technique for resolving remote start problems. Instead of blindly guessing, you can use this feature to gain valuable insights into why your remote start is failing. By systematically checking the RVS Disable History and addressing the identified issues, you can efficiently restore your remote start functionality and enjoy the convenience it offers. Investing in a quality OBD2 scanner can be a worthwhile decision for any car owner looking to perform basic diagnostics and maintenance, including troubleshooting features like Remote Vehicle Start.