Abstract: A remote convenience system (10) and an associated function remotely control convenience functions at a vehicle (16). A receiver/controller (14), located at the vehicle (16), receives vehicle remote convenience function request signals (30) that convey remote function request messages and controls vehicle systems (e.g., 48, 50, 52, and 68) to perform the remotely requested vehicle functions. The receiver/controller (14) includes a messaging processing portion (110) for providing a signal (e.g., 128/130) to activate an at-vehicle alarm component (e.g., 50/52) and for providing a signal (132) to activate a remote assistance-summoning component (68). A portable transmitter outputs the remote convenience function request signals (30) to cause remote control performance. The transmitter (12) includes a manually actuatable emergency pushbutton switch (94). The switch (94) is actuatable in a first operation mode (e.g.