Toyota's Lexus Remote Engine Warm-Up Disabled in Germany

RunWithRugs · 2026-02-28T15:23:50+00:00

German regulators ordered Toyota to disable remote engine warm-up features in Lexus models due to environmental violations. This affects many vehicles sold in Germany, prompting frustration among owners while Toyota claims it's to prevent fines.

RunWithRugs

2026-02-28 15:23:50

Abstract generation in progress

(MENAFN) German regulators have compelled Toyota’s premium Lexus division to remotely deactivate remote engine warm-up capabilities across combustion vehicles nationwide over environmental violations, media reported Wednesday.

Thousands of Toyota and Lexus owners discovered their auxiliary climate control systems abruptly shut off without warning, German media disclosed.

The sweeping deactivation impacts the vast majority of Toyota’s German fleet—the automaker moved over 100,000 units in the country during 2025 alone, with the shutdown extending to earlier model years as well.

Previously offered at no charge via the MyToyota or Lexus Link Plus mobile platforms, the parking pre-heat function has been eliminated across all gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles throughout Germany, company spokesman Ralph Muller confirmed.

Toyota justified the remote kill switch as a protective measure “to protect the vehicle user from fines,” explaining that authorities classify remote engine warm-up as “unnecessary running” generating “avoidable exhaust pollution.”

The Japanese automaker framed the forced compliance as shielding customers from regulatory penalties by proactively disabling the controversial feature. Battery-electric models and plug-in hybrid variants retain the heating capability, as their cabin warming systems operate independently of combustion engines.

Online reaction reflected widespread frustration and bewilderment among affected motorists.

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