Everything You Need to Know About Remote Car Starters
You might be wondering: what exactly is a remote car starter? Simply put, it’s a device that allows you to start your car’s engine from a distance. This feature is convenient for cooling down your car on a hot day or warming it up on a freezing morning.
As automotive technology improves, remote car starters have become a common feature in modern vehicles. Keep reading to learn more about how remote starters work, the benefits of installing one, and whether an aftermarket installation is right for you.
What is a Remote Car Starter?
A remote car starter lets you start your car’s engine from a distance, offering numerous benefits. The primary advantage is the extra time it gives your vehicle to reach an ideal operating temperature.
By warming up the engine and making the oil less viscous, the starter ensures that the oil flows smoothly throughout the engine. This results in a better performance and a more comfortable drive.
In summer, it helps to cool the car’s interior before you step inside, while in winter, it heats it up to make your ride more pleasant.
Even if your car doesn’t come with this feature, you can still install one! Many cars from 2016 onward, especially those from manufacturers like Ford, are compatible with dealer-installed remote start systems. If your vehicle is older, particularly pre-2005, you’ll likely need to opt for an aftermarket starter, which will need to be professionally installed at our reputable shop to ensure quality and warranty protection.
How Much Do Remote Car Starters Cost?
The price of an aftermarket remote car starter with installation typically ranges between $549 and $749 depending on what is needed based on your year, make and model. If you drive a European model with transponder keys, or you only have one key, you could pay as much as $800+ due to the complex electronics involved.
Some remote starters offer advanced features that can significantly raise the price.
These include:
Two-way remote notifications
Longer-range remotes
The ability to control windows
Smartphone app controls
These added features can make the system much more versatile and valuable for certain users, but they also come with a higher cost. While remote starters aren’t cheap, it’s important to avoid purchasing low-quality systems online and attempting a DIY installation. Poorly installed or cheap systems can cause more harm than good.
Can a Remote Start Be Added to Any Vehicle?
If your vehicle was built in the mid-2000s or you have a model that offers a remote starter as an option, you can likely add one. We can help guide you if you have a manual transmission or if a remote start is a possibility for your vehicle.
Can a Remote Starter Damage Your Car’s Starter?
There’s a common myth that remote starters can damage your car’s starter, but this isn’t true. In fact, when installed properly by professionals, remote starters can actually be beneficial for your engine, especially in vehicles with diesel or turbo engines. To ensure no issues arise, it's essential to choose a high-quality system and have it installed correctly.
Does a Remote Starter Make My Car Easier to Steal?
Concerns about car theft are valid, in 2019, about 27% of Canada's reported motor vehicle thefts happened in Alberta, according to Statistics Canada. However, adding a remote starter to your car doesn’t make it more vulnerable to theft. In fact, high-quality remote starters have security features that help protect your car.
For instance, these systems keep the doors locked when the car is remotely started. If a thief manages to get inside, many systems will prevent the car from starting by cutting off the engine when the brake pedal is touched. Additionally, some systems keep the steering wheel locked until you’re inside the car and start the ignition yourself.
Does Installing a Remote Car Starter Void My Car’s Warranty?
No, installing a remote car starter will not void your car’s warranty—so long as it’s done properly by a professional installer. Remote starter systems are covered under consumer protection laws, such as the Canadian equivalent of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. As long as the installation is done correctly, your warranty remains intact.
Are Remote Starters Easy to Install?
There’s a significant difference between a DIY job and a professional installation. Installing a remote starter involves wiring, understanding security bypass systems, and more, depending on your car’s make and model.
To avoid potential issues, it’s best to trust the installation to us as experienced professionals.
Can Remote Starters Be Installed on Manual Cars?
Yes, remote starters can technically be installed on manual cars, but the process is more complicated compared to automatic vehicles. Special precautions must be taken to ensure the car is in neutral and the parking brake is engaged before the engine starts.
Conclusion
Remote car starters can be a great addition to any vehicle, offering convenience, comfort, and protection for your engine. If you’re considering installing one, reach out to us, your automotive experts for a quote and professional advice. With the right system and installation, you’ll enjoy a better driving experience for years to come!
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