My engine light came for the first time at 10k miles. When i remote start, it turns on and stays on for about 20 seconds then turns off, it has a full tank of gas. I am unable to remote start again, i can only start by key in the ignition. It seems to run fine. Any thoughts...? I know i have to take it in but cant make time right now.

 

With the check engine light ... remote start, mds and such will not work correctly. You need to take it in.

 

Update, engine light turned off yesterday now remote start works again weird. If i take it in will dealer still be able to check to see why engine light came on?

 

Some times the check engine light is as simple as a loose gas cap. Two weeks ago I had a CEL so I popped the gas cap and tightened it down a couple of extra clicks. Problem solved -- no more CEL. This is a trick I learned from my Volvo dealer.
The emission system samples for possible leaks at the gas filler neck. When a leak is detected the CEL illuminates, and if you take it to the dealer their techs will flash it as an emission issue and quickly trace it to the gas cap.
Often times it is only a spec of dirt on the sealing edge of the cap and when you clean it off the problem disappears. That is unless they tell you you have a bad gas cap and nick you for $40 or so to replace it.
Good luck.

 

There should be a code in the history. Since the remote starter turned itself off my guess is it is engine cooling related

 

Yes as long as you do not disconnect the battery the code should be stored. There are some exceptions. However I am not sure why HUMYZ believes that it is engine cooling related. Whatever event took place that caused the MIL is why remote start failed. A CEL or low fuel will abort a remote start.

 

Yep. This is the case on every remote start system. If there is a Check Engine Light, the vehicle will not remote start. It's a way of your vehicle telling you "Hey!! Something is wrong!"

 

I'm not sure that you need to go to the dealer if the "Check Engine" light is no longer on.

from the 2012 Owner Manual:
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is part of
an onboard diagnostic system called OBD II that
monitors engine and automatic transmission control
systems. The light will illuminate when the key is in
the ON/RUN position before engine start. If the bulb
does not come on when turning the key from OFF to
ON/RUN, have the condition checked promptly.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap,
poor fuel quality, etc., may illuminate the light after
engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light
stays on through several of your typical driving cycles. In
most situations, the vehicle will drive normally and will
not require towing.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause
damage to the engine control system. It also could
affect fuel economy and drivability. If the MIL is
flashing, severe catalytic converter damage and
power loss will soon occur. Immediate service is
required.

 

On my 13 there is a separate light for the gas cap! Does that hold true for the 11-12 D's
STEVE

 

My wife mention to me that she went to a generic has station to fill up, it could have been bad gas related.