Introduction
Remote start systems, also often referred to as “Auto Starts,” have been utilized in vehicles for some years now and for many different reasons. These days, having a remote start system is somewhat about keeping up with tech and times. Remote starts are fast becoming standard on vehicles from the factory, due to the demand and convenience the feature offers. In this blog, we will discuss exactly what benefits come with aftermarket remote start systems, details of what to look for, the basic operations, and go over what to look for when purchasing a system for your vehicle.
Remote starts can melt that pesky ice that attacks our ability to drive in the winter time
I am very impressed with the work that was done in my car. I had them install a remote start. It has been wonderful and they are very detailed in their work. I would highly recommend them to anyone. – Jillyn Netcher
Some clients have previously seen remote starts as never ending headaches and pains. When remote starts act up, this is most commonly due to below par installation methods or cheap product. There are some exceptions, such as; user handling, below freezing weather, a deteriorating battery or, even just improper voltage to the system. If these factors are not an issue then, having a remote start system can be a life changer. For the most part, it’s all about the installation. While reading this blog, keep in mind, purchasing and having a system correctly installed by a certified shop is always recommended. In any extra event this advice can save a lot of time and money in the long run.
It is easier to explain price once than to apologize for quality forever.
The benefits of an Aftermarket Remote Start system…
One of the most commonly mentioned benefits by remote start users is, the fact that the vehicle will heat up in cold weather while they prepare for their venture. Many don’t think about how utilizing the climate controls year round while remote starting the vehicle can be just as advantageous. A good example would be, to leave the AC on during hot summer days to cool the interior down before while the remote start is running. It is also good to let the vehicle’s motor warm up to running temperature before asking it to perform work under load.
In some American states, it is illegal to leave a vehicle unattended, running with keys in the ignition. Using the “Pit Stop” feature, while running into a gas station or while simply running a small errand within a few minutes in general, is a good way to avoid a ticket. Not to mention, the high possibly of the vehicle being stolen and causing a large inconvenience in your day. All in all, adding a remote start is beneficial in many ways.
Adding an aftermarket remote start system allows for the option of upgrading the remote kit to a much more efficient and reliable remote than the factory option. Most factory remotes, or fobs, will only transmit, on average, up to 200-300ft of range. Some aftermarket units will start at 600-800ft of range. LIS Audio’s most commonly used unit is the 4 Button 1500ft range Compustar, ArcticStart or NuStart system. Many higher end remote kits offer range up to, or exceeding, 3 miles. Some units will offer app based activation allowing the vehicle to be started from any place a cellular signal is accessible. Including from the other side of the globe.
The downfalls of online remote start shopping…
Shopping online for remote start systems can often be misleading. Not all vehicles require the same equipment to integrate an aftermarket remote start system and some add-on features may require more materials than the manufacturer may provide new in the box. Many wholesale sites may unintentionally send a unit that is not properly stocked with all the necessary parts. Which can make fixing the issue much more complicated than going to a shop. Aside from the inconvenience of waiting for the unit to arrive, when ordering online, is the fact that if it becomes faulty, the shop that installed it most likely won’t be able to warranty the product. Nor will an independent installer.
A tangled mess of an older remote start that was malfunctioning in a this vehicle
Many product warranties are valid only when installed by a professional technician at a certified shop. If the unit breaks, or is faulty, and is warrantied through an online retailer then the unit must be uninstalled, shipped back for warranty, and then must be installed once again. This could easily be more waiting and more money, overall more inconvenient and more expensive than spending the money at a local shop.
A warning sticker that LIS Audio places under the hood in plain sight for any person that could possibly work on the vehicle
Many online retailers that sell remote start systems are rarely upfront about the condition of the product being purchased, the stipulations of their warranties and may prove to be much more inconvenient than they promise. There are nearly a handful of online sites to shop with that will give a “non-savvy remote start buyer” accurate information and compatibility of the unit per vehicle. Even then it is easy for the uneducated to purchase the wrong part or, not purchase the proper additional components to complete the installation.
Ordering a package online isn’t always as convenient as we expect it to be, is it?
A lot of the much larger online retailers will also try ploys to draw buyers in so they’ll just spend their money. These companies will offer packages or bundles that come with “everything needed for installation” or that are “plug and play” units. In most cases, this is not the situation, especially for someone that is new in the remote start installation world. Be weary of those online great deals, if it seems too good to be true chances are, it is.
What comes with a typical remote start system?
Now, we will break down the most commonly found parts of a remote start system and what to look for generally from vehicle-to-vehicle in order to find the right system, per application. This section will help the beginner have a better understanding of what and where to look for a remote start system with most any type of vehicle on the road today. Granted, there are a lot of contingencies to vehicle-to-vehicle that will not be touched on.
A remote start system and a few extras ready to be opened and installed
The brains of the operation…
There are 3 most commonly found components used in remote start systems today to give aftermarket features to the factory platform. The first and main component that will be included in every remote start installation is, the remote start unit itself, often referred to as the “brain.” This unit could be a module that has a high current, low current, or even both low and high current harness for starting. Knowing whether the vehicle has a high current or low current ignition wire harness will determine which type is fit for the application.
A LIS Audio prepped remote start system ready for installation
The remote start brain itself is typically capable of performing most basic features via hardwire through the main harness and the ignition harness. The typical functions of the main harness could be, as much as but not limited to; lock, unlock, factory alarm arm, factory alarm disarm, door triggers, trunk release, light flash, tachometer input, foot brake input, horn honk, dome light supervision, hood pin, neutral safety, E-brake trigger and possibly ground. There may also be other programmable outputs and inputs on this harness as well as wires to enable additional features or sensors.
You can see plenty of examples of how to correctly install remote starter systems on our social media pages
The ignition harness typically consists of power, ignition, start, accessory and ground if it is not located in the main harness. This harness may be high current wire most commonly but can be found having low current wires, or in some cases it may have both. Some remote start units will simply consist of a single module that provides these same functions but entirely across the Data gateway. This allows for more than one job to be performed in one single wire, which means less wires and lower current overall. Less weight, less effort, more work.
Immobilizer bypass…
This brings us to our next component, the immobilizer bypass. Some newer cars (generally newer than 1997) may have an transponder (immobilizer) in the ignition, which is synced to a chip with a unique code in each one of the keys. These unique codes won’t work in any other vehicle without being programmed, which is why theft of newer vehicles is a bit more complex. This technology prevents thieves from simply cutting a metal key and getting away with cars as easily, and it makes hot-wiring a car next impossible.
The clear plastic piece around the ignition with the chip board, copper wrapped around the ignition cylinder and the black plug on the back, is the transponder assembly (immobilizer).
The small ring of copper around the ignition reads the chip in the key for varification. So, in order to “trick” the vehicle into thinking the key is in the ignition (when in reality it is in your hand, while you’re remote starting the vehicle) an immobilizer bypass is needed. We program the immobilizer bypass to the vehicle keys which it then sends a Data signal to the immobilizer in the vehicle that mirrors the code of the chip in the keys. This is how remote start systems are integrated into newer vehicles with immobilizers.
The immobilizer bypass can sometmes be “docked” into a brain rather than hardwired
Which remote is the best remote for me?
The third most commonly found component in a remote start system is the remote kit, sometimes referred to as a “RF kit.” The RF kit typically consists of 2 remotes, an antenna and antenna cord which connects the antenna to the brain for control. The antenna will most commonly be installed on the front windshield or on the dashboard and may have a button and/or a LED light on it that helps to deter thieves.
This Toyota FJ Cruise received a 4-button remote start system as well as a few other goodies
Most RF kits will have a primary remote and a back up remote depending on manufacturer, tho many new kits will have 1 main remote and an app based antenna. Some remotes will have an identical pair others will have a stronger and more capable remote with a slightly weaker but similar remote for back up. When referring to range, it is seen as being in an open field with no large obstructions between the remote and the vehicle. Range listed for the RF kits will typically just signify the intensity of the signal. When in a building, or near a large structure, range of the transmitter is almost certain to be reduced no matter the strength.
Our number 1 selling single button 1-way remote which is great for adding only a remote start feature
The most universal and commonly found remote will have unlock, lock, trunk pop, remote start and possibly panic. We refer to the option below as a “4 button” remote. There are also remote kits that have one single button for starting and stopping the vehicle and with a different press pattern may also lock and unlock the vehicle, we refer to these as a “single button” remote. These remotes are typically found with 1-way and 2-way compatibility depending on manufacturer.
This 4-button remote kit comes in 1-way and 2-way communication
A 1-way remote means that the remote kit and remote start brain only have one way communication, remote command sending and then the brain receiving. Now, the 2-way remote kits will offer 2-way communication, which means the remote sends signal for the brain to receive then the brain sends a confirmation back to the remote showing the command was, or was not, successful. The 2-way remote kits will often have a LED that blinks or a chime that sounds upon confirmation of each command.
A LIS Audio LCD 2-way remote that allows for alerts to be displayed in the users hand from up to 3,000ft away
The next upgrade for the remote kit is to jump to the 2-way LCD screen remote. This has the same 2-way communication but with a bit more information displayed for the user. This remote will have a screen, which will either be black and white or multi colored depending on manufacturer. The screen will display confirmations of commands sent as well as monitor the current conditions of the vehicle. Most LCD remotes will display whether the vehicle is locked/unlocked, doors open, remote stat run time, range of reception, battery life and sometimes-even more. The range on the LCD remotes tend to vary anywhere from 1500ft of range upwards to 3 miles.
This Toyota FJ Cruiser also received a Drone Mobile app based remote start add-on
As if the LCD screen doesn’t provide enough smarts for everyone there is yet another step up from there, which is smart phone activation and monitoring. Some of the top manufacturers, such as Compustar’s and ArcticStart’s DroneMobile, have created apps that can be downloaded to most smart phones to utilize this platform to send and receive Data communications to and from the vehicle. The range on the app based start applications is typically limited to the current cellular service of the user in their current position. So, a user with a vehicle in the US can start their car all the way from China.
Justice, Owner at LIS Audio showing how to use our basic 4-button remote start system
These apps have the most advantage with users that regularly take long trips out of town leaving their vehicle behind and need it started every so often. Though the options is becoming much more regular and affordable for everyone today. Vehicle fluids, moving parts and batteries like to see regular work in order to have a long life. The DroneMobile app is also very advantageous when it comes to drivers that need to park extremely far from their location, want to know the security of their vehicle wherever they may be, or for a vehicle that is kept in storage that isn’t always easy to get to and start regularly.
A tip start Mercedes-Benz smart key that can be very expensive to replace
For the convenience of using the factory remote, there is also an option presented. This method typically uses the “3-times-lock” sequence to activate the aftermarket remote start system. It will give the user the advantage of not having to carry the bulkiness of two remotes if the factory key has a remote built in. The range with this system will remain the same as that of the limited 200-300ft offered by the manufacturers remote. This option is available on most but not all vehicles.
Cameron, Owner at LIS Audio showing how to operate the 3X-Lock-Start basic remote start system
Choosing a starter from looking at the key…
The exact amount of components needed tend to be dependent on the exact year, make and model of the vehicle as well as how advanced the vehicle Data system may be. Some vehicles will not have a chip in the key and will only require using the remote start unit and a remote kit for operation. Some vehicles will allow for 3X-Lock-Start for remote start activation.
A factory replacement style key with an immobilizer chip in the black base
A shops main goal, in most accounts, is to keep the present functions of the keyless and factory alarm system with aftermarket while adding remote start. This means, if the vehicle comes with lock, unlock, trunk pop and panic on the factory remote then the aftermarket remote should at least have these features, plus additional features that are allowed to be aded on. Some functions like, rear window roll down, maybe considered “add-on” features at some shops, so be sure to as in advance if you wish to retain them.
A Standard Key that could have an immobilizer chip that has the remote seperate
Most original “standard” keys will have some fully metal or with a small rubber or plastic grip on the head. Many classic vehicles will actually have a key for the ignition and a separate key for unlocking doors and popping the trunk. These keys will not have chips in them nor will there be an immobilizer in the ignition.
In the late 90’s some manufacturers started adding chips to standard style blade keys to prevent theft. Most of these chipped keys are identifiable by the symbol or letter stamped near the base of the blade on the key. Others are identified by the color of the grip on the head of the key. It is always recommended to have a certified professional look at the specific vehicle and key to accurately assess whether there is a chip in the key or an transponder (immobilizer) in the vehicle.
Commonly found with Ford vehicles this remote head key is a remote and key in one
The next style of key up from here is almost certainly going to be chipped and have an immobilizer in the ignition, aside from a small group of manufacturers. It is referred to as a “remote head” key. This key features the vehicle keyless entry remote on the key itself marrying the previously two-piece combo into one. Chipped keys can be identified similarly to standard keys with chips.
A factory flip key first used on high end luxury cars that has the remote entry built-in
The “flip key” blade style is typically a remote with the blade hidden that flips out the side, or straight out. These are commonly seen with mid to late 2000’s Volkswagen and Audi keys. Chevrolet has had a run of flip keys as well as a few more manufacturers that they weren’t common to. These keys are almost always going to have a chip coded to the immobilizer and are not inexpensive to replace. They will typically have at least lock and unlock built into the remote head, possibly trunk pop and panic.
The Dodge style tip start key which also has an immobilizer chip built-in
The next key will be more advance and almost always work through a Data system in the vehicle. This key is typically all plastic with a unique shape to one end that fits into a rotating key port. This is referred to as a “tip start” key. It is fairly safe to assume a vehicle with this style of key will need an immobilizer bypass in order to correctly install a remote start system.
This fob is commonly found with Infiniti or Nissan Push-To-Start vehicles and most certainly has an immobilizer built-in
Many new vehicles are coming equipped with push-to-start buttons in place of the standard tumbling style ignition cylinders. The remote carried in place of the standard vehicle key is referred to as a “fob” or “tombstone” style key. The vehicle typically senses the fob when it enters its proximity, allowing the carrier to simply climb in with the fob and start the vehicle with a push of a button. Some fobs will unlock the vehicle when it enters the proximity and may also provide a dock for the key called a “key port.” Key ports may sometimes be found on the left of the driver’s side dash, along the center console or inside the armrest of the center console.
Now, as you can see this is the reason why there are so many different remote kits on the market. Each vehicle is slightly different in how the factory remote work with the vehicle, as well as having different features already available from vehicle-to-vehicle. Aftermarket manufacturers must try to meet the needs of a specific vehicle paired with the application and needs of the user while maintaining the factory functionality. Which could mean any number of features!
The biggest differences of Older vs. Newer vehicles with Remote Starts…
As previously mentioned, there are some distinct differences between adding a remote start system to a new vehicles verse older vehicles. Most of these differences will be in how advanced the vehicle Data system may be. Some vehicles that are old enough will actually have no computer system in the vehicle at all. On the other hand, some newer vehicles are able to control every function to each component through Data.
An 1969 Oldsmobile 442 LIS Audio performed an installation on
The differences between older and newer vehicles receiving remote start systems will be in the interfacing of the aftermarket remote start system with the vehicle itself. Some older vehicles will require additional parts to make the remote start function properly, such as relays for door locking systems, circuit integration of the trunk pop feature, or even diodes to prevent circuits from back feeding. With older vehicles it is much easier for a technician to accurately identify the wires without utilizing wiring schematics but can take much more time going to multiply wires, as a opposed to just a few Data wires.
A vehicle prepped, disassembled and ready for installation with the LIS Audio protection package
Since many newer vehicles have a computer system that uses Data signals to send commands, one single wire can have multiple purposes. This may cut down the amount of wires used in the vehicle but, it also makes testing circuits much more complex and is one of the reasons many technicians today rely on wiring schematics and vehicle diagrams for accurate information. Without access to dealer information, experience in installation or expensive software programs, it can be hard to find the correct wires for installation of a remote start unit in a newer vehicle.
When choosing a shop to perform the work be sure that they are not only have MECP certified techs but, that they hold themselves to a higher standard
Integrating a remote start system into a vehicle can be a difficult task from time to time. Even for an experienced technician. This is why we recommend always using a certified professional shop to perform the installation. Adding electronics to a vehicle can be iffy, so leave it in the hands of a professional that knows what to look for and how to diagnose an issue if one were to arise. Along with the ease of fixing issues that could arise, if the unit was to go bad and it was purchased through an authorized dealer, the shop would be able to replace it immediately under warranty.
What to look for in a good Remote Start system…
By now you should have a general understanding of how remote start systems benefits and how they are compatible with different vehicles. Now, we will determine how to select a remote start for specific applications. This part of the blog will be somewhat biased due to the brands we have previously used and currently use at LIS Audio. The brands we mention are top of the line and very well known in the industry. These manufacturers have been around for many years, and have for many years had very satisfied customers, and technicians.
Some of the different style of aftermarket remotes provided by ADS and DEI
The two most popular manufacturers of remote start and alarm systems are DEI and ADS. DEI, also known as Directed, is very well known for more than a handful of company’s it umbrella’s, such as Viper, Python, Clifford, Avital, and a few others. You will see ADS producing remote start and alarm options through brands like Compustar, ArcticStart, FTX, idatalink, DroneMobile, and more. At LIS Audio we choose to use only ADS, or Firstech, remote start and alarm systems, which won out over DEI products by a small margin of comparison. The main reason we at LIS Audio support using Compustar and Firstech products primarily is due to their great customer service and the awesome technology they offer within the DASII sensor.
The DASII Sensor provides remote start options for manual transmission vehicles
Some clients have a fear of adding a remote start to a manual vehicle, which some of these fears are for a very good reason. Some remote start systems of the past didn’t integrate so well into manual transmission vehicles causing more headaches than the system offered in convenience, and even some times causing damage to the vehicle or persons working on it. The Firstech DASII sensor eliminates the any fears the past systems may have instilled. The DASII is a 4-in-1 security sensor that detects two stages of impact/intrusion, tilt and forward motion, plus glass break, is required for installation of remote starters for manual-transmission vehicles and those that want aftermarket security.
The LIS Audio workshop full of many different projects
Less experienced remote start users have an image that it is very difficult to have a system installed when adding one to a diesel vehicle. This is not as big of a deal to perform as it has been in past. Firstech and ADS offer solutions that are easily implemented to deal with glow plug warm up and even turbo timing. Remote start systems are not impossible to integrate into vehicles with diesel engines.
A video of the RPS Touch feature we added to this Toyota FJ Cruiser
To narrow down which remote start system to purchase, you will want to ascertain an idea of which manufacturer you want to go with. From here the product can be picked up from a local shop which will most likely provide at least the manufacturer warranty. As mentioned before, we also recommend having a certified professional handle the installation. Most of the larger remote start companies will offer dealer locators for an easy and accurate way to find who sells their product near you that can also offer a professional installation.
Dealer locater search engines can be found one the remote start manufacturer websites
After a manufacturer has been selected, it is time to decide which features are most important for the specific application… Is the vehicle a manual and does it require a DASII sensor? Is range a huge factor in where the vehicle is parked day-to-day, from home, school, or work? Do we want a simple 3X-Lock-Start option through the factory fob with limited range? Or do we want an added remote with 2-way communication and long range? Do we want control and monitoring of the system from our smart phone? Answer these questions and then start shopping!
Is your vehicle compatible?
Follow the links attached to the below pictures to see if your vehicle will work with any of the systems previously mentioned. Simply enter in the information that the website asks for about your vehicle, and then begin to determine which units are offered for the specific vehicle. Once you have a decent idea of what your options are, consult with an installation professional to be sure no additional parts are need.
This link will take you to a search engine that will show you which iDatalink products are compatible when using Compustar or ArcticStart
This link will take you to a search engine that will show you which DEI products are compatible when using Viper, Python or Clifford
From here it will be a deciding factor for the user of what they want with the installation. Experience and reviews can also be a huge help when deciding which route to go. Reading online customer reviews, as well as asking a knowledgeable shop, local or not, can really help a ton with making an accurate decision. It always works out well when it is done right the first time. “No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” Find a shop that exudes this motto and you can’t go wrong!
Thank you for reading our blog on remote start systems and how they work with many different vehicles one the road! Good luck in finding the right system for your application and we hope this helps you make a more educated and informed choice!
Contact LIS Audio if you have any questions…
Call: (913) 912- 6990
E-mail: info@lisaudio.com
Website: http://www.lisaudio.com
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