What You Need to Know About Remote Starts and Factory Key Fob | CarTronics (2024)

FAQs

How to remote start with factory key fob? ›

Here at Sweet Sounds, we use the phrase “factory key fob remote start activation.” No matter what you call it, the idea is pretty simple: You press the Lock button on your remote control three times in quick succession, and the remote will activate the automatic starter.

A remote car starter is a convenient way to thaw out the exterior of your car and warm up the inside of your car. A remote starter can cool your car down in the summer and turn up the heat in the winter.

Factory remote starters, also referred to as OEM remote starters, are systems that come pre-built into a vehicle. Any remote starter you have installed after purchasing your vehicle is called an “aftermarket” remote starter.

The answer in most applications is a solid yes. With that said, there are some limitations to using your factory remote to start your car or truck. Let's look at the benefits and drawbacks of your OEM remote system and using it with a remote car starter.

A: It really depends on the car. With some, the key fobs can be programmed without any special tools, but others require one or more tools to do the job.

The key fob for your car will have a special button if your vehicle has a remote starter. The symbol for the remote start is usually an arrow making a partial circle, as seen above. However, take note that some vehicle brands might use a different symbol for remote start.

To make a car remote starter work, your vehicle requires correctly installed wiring, a bypass module, a control module, and a remote transmitter. Simply put, car remote starters mimic the engine starting sequence that you trigger when you turn on the vehicle with your key.

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.

Myth 2: Remote starters drain the battery

Since remote systems draw a small amount of current, some assume they can tax the battery. But when installed properly, battery drain is rarely a significant issue. Here's why: – Quality remote start systems are designed to minimize battery drain when the engine is off.

Can you install a remote start system yourself? Maybe, maybe not. It depends. Remote start installation can be a very complicated process, which is why we often recommend professional installation.

Do you need 2 keys to install a remote start? ›

Answer: Please bring two ignition keys that will both start the vehicle. Many of the interface modules require two keys for programming.

A: Yes, your key is still needed to actually drive the vehicle anywhere.

A dead battery, faulty starter, and an activated valet mode are some of the reasons why your remote start isn't working. Aside from electrical issues, coolant and oil pressure problems can also affect the remote start's operation. It costs between $250 and $400 to replace a damaged remote start fob.

Here's what you need to know about remote car starters and factory key fob, and what you need to consider when choosing a system that will fit your needs. Add a car remote starter to existing factory key fob. Remote starters can usually be added to your existing factory key fob (remote).

The remote-start button is shaped like a curved arrow. If your key fob has this button, that means that your car is equipped with Remote Start.