Remote starters are great for those frigid mornings when you want to slide into a nice and toasty vehicle for the drive to work. However, before you rush out and purchase one, there are a few things you need to know about remote starters.
Ranges
All remote starters have a specified range as to how far you can be from the vehicle to start to it. These ranges are typically between 500 feet and 5,000 feet. This broad range is important, as they are based on no interference between the transmitter and the vehicle. If you plan to start a vehicle right outside your door, a 500-foot range will work. If you know your car will be downstairs or buried deep in a parking lot, the highest range is the best option.
The Damage Myth
There is a myth that remote starters can damage your vehicle. The truth of this is, a properly installed, high quality system will not cause any damage. Incidents where cars have quit running or even caught fire are typically due to being installed improperly, although extremely cheap systems are also unreliable.
Installation Matters
As mentioned, you need to have your remote starter installed by a professional that understands the intricacies of the system and how to run the wiring. Vehicles have become more complex over the years, and that complexity can be a problem if someone doesn’t have the proper knowledge of the systems involved. This is one case where the cheapest installer is not necessarily the best option. Make sure to do your research to protect yourself and your vehicle.
Warranty Concerns
It’s also important to understand that having a remote starter professionally installed will not void your vehicle’s warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975 prohibits the voiding of a warranty based on adding after-market products, unless the FTC has noted the specific product as causing failures. If an issue occurs with your remote starter that is not covered under your manufacture warranty, it should fall to the shop that installed it to take care of the damages.
Programming
You will also need to decide if you want a remote starter that activates the rear defrost or heated seats, or provides keyless entry. There are remote starters available that can have these features added, but you will need to pay for the additional options.
Remote starters are a major convenience, but you need to make sure you choose the right installer and product to ensure everything works properly.
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FAQs
Remote start is a factory option for many models, but if your vehicle wasn't equipped with it originally, you can have an aftermarket remote car starter installed. It's usually between $100 and $500 for the parts, and it can take a pro between an hour and three hours to install it.
What are the basics of remote start? ›
A remote starter uses a radio-frequency signal from a remote transmitter (your aftermarket key fob) and uses it to trigger a series of relays that will switch the ignition circuits on to simulate the sequence that is performed when starting your car with a key.
How do I choose a remote starter for my car? ›
Here are some things to consider before making your purchase:
- Start range.
- Compatibility.
- Engine kill.
- Consider professional installation.
- Don't focus on price.
- Don't forget to open your garage door.
- Keep your pets at home.
Myth 2: Remote starters drain the battery
– Quality remote start systems are designed to minimize battery drain when the engine is off. For example, Compustar units draw less than 20mA of current when not active. This light load will not substantially drain modern vehicle batteries.
What problems can a remote starter cause? ›
Improper installation could lead to other issues.
If a new remote-start mechanism was installed by someone other than the manufacturer, you run the risk of having it installed improperly. This mistake can lead to other problems, such as a premature draining of your vehicle's battery.
What is the best remote car starter to buy? ›
Here are my picks for the top remote car starters that will have you feeling fired up:
- Compustar CSX4900-S. Best Overall: 2-way alarm alerts, 3,000 feet range, drone smartphone app compatibility. ...
- Compustar CS7900-AS. ...
- Viper 4806V. ...
- Python 5706P. ...
- Avital 5103LX. ...
- Firstech CM7100. ...
- Compustar RFX-R3. ...
- Crimestopper RS7-G5.
To make it possible to turn your engine on and off at the push of a button, your vehicle needs wiring, a bypass module, a control module, and a remote transmitter.
Is it hard to set up remote start? ›
Remote start installation can be a very complicated process, which is why we often recommend professional installation.
What is the average cost to have a remote start installed? ›
The average Compustar remote start installers offer systems plus installation for around $319.99-$449.99. Several things factor into this cost. Different vehicles use different mechanisms for starting the engine.
Can I install a remote starter myself? ›
Ideally, remote starters should be installed by a qualified technician because improper installation can damage expensive vehicle control electronics.
What is 2-Way Remote Starter? This is a more modern version of a starter. Unlike one-way remotes, two-way remotes confirm the successful transmission of commands to the vehicle directly to the Compustar console visually and audibly. With two-way remote starts, you receive instant confirmation of the engine start.
What are the cons to remote start? ›
Cons
- Wasted fuel. Let's go back to the short morning trip example mentioned earlier. ...
- Large CO2 emissions. Because there's more fuel burning than usual, the number of emissions and pollution increase as well. ...
- Excessive wear of the engine. ...
- You increase your chances of getting listed as a high-risk driver.
The answer is no. According to Allyn Bertrang, the Deputy Chief with the Eau Claire Fire Department, even if your garage door is opened you want to keep your running car well away from your home so exhaust can escape into the atmosphere.
Is remote start bad in cold weather? ›
Remote Start in Cold Weather
It allows the climate system to circulate warm air into the car, making it toasty when you are ready to go. However, remote start benefits in other ways, too. You never need to leave your car running with the key or fob in it, inviting theft.
What are the disadvantages of remote start car? ›
Cons
- Wasted fuel. Let's go back to the short morning trip example mentioned earlier. ...
- Large CO2 emissions. Because there's more fuel burning than usual, the number of emissions and pollution increase as well. ...
- Excessive wear of the engine. ...
- You increase your chances of getting listed as a high-risk driver.
Your ride to work will be more pleasant.
With remote start on your vehicle, you can warm up your vehicle so you don't have to run outside in the bitter cold to get into an even colder car. And with your engine warmed up, you won't have to wait for your heater to stop blowing cold air.
What is required for remote start on a car? ›
To make it possible to turn your engine on and off at the push of a button, your vehicle needs wiring, a bypass module, a control module, and a remote transmitter.
How long does a remote car starter battery last? ›
Under normal circ*mstances, the battery life of the remote key control is generally 2-3 years. It is determined according to the actual number of uses, and there are differences between different models, and it is difficult to determine the specific replacement time.
