In the domestic market (GM, Ford, Ram), remote start is often a dormant feature that can be activated via a scan tool. In the VAG world, the hardware is almost never present. Unlike heated seats or automatic locking, remote start requires:
Modern VAG cars (MQB platform: Golf Mk7, Audi A3 8V, etc.) use a highly sensitive CAN bus network. If the car detects voltage drops or irregular signals from the ignition switch (which a cheap remote start creates), it will throw a "Ignition Switch Implausible Signal" error and may even lock the steering column. vcds remote start