You are sitting in your house on a cold winter morning, looking at your car in the driveway. The thought of getting into a freezing cold vehicle is not appealing. This leads to a common question: can you add remote start to a car? The answer is a definitive yes. Modern keyless convenience isn’t just for new models; many older cars can be fitted with a remote start system.
Adding this feature is one of the most popular aftermarket upgrades. It provides comfort and can even help with vehicle maintenance. This guide will explain everything you need to know about installing a remote start in your vehicle.
We will cover the different types of systems, the installation process, costs, and important legal considerations. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to proceed.
Can You Add Remote Start To A Car
Absolutely. Remote start systems are designed to be installed in a wide range of vehicles. This includes cars, trucks, and SUVs that did not come with this feature from the factory. The process involves integrating an aftermarket module with your car’s existing electronics.
The complexity can vary. It depends on your vehicle’s age, make, and model. Newer cars with complex computer networks require more sophisticated interfaces. Older models with simpler wiring are often easier to equip.
There are two main paths: a professional installation or a do-it-yourself kit. Your choice will depend on your budget, technical skill, and comfort level with automotive wiring.
Types Of Remote Start Systems
Not all remote start systems are the same. Understanding the differences is key to choosing the right one for your needs and budget.
One-Way Remote Start Systems
This is the most basic and affordable type. The remote sends a signal to start the car, but it does not receive a confirmation signal back. You press the button and hope it worked. It’s a simple solution, but lacks feedback.
- Lower cost.
- Shorter range, typically 500 to 1000 feet.
- No confirmation that the engine is running.
Two-Way Remote Start Systems
These systems provide confirmation. The remote unit receives a signal back from the car, often with a light flash, beep, or an LCD screen message. This confirms the vehicle has started successfully.
- Higher price point.
- Longer operational range.
- Provides peace of mind with visual or audible confirmation.
Smartphone-Controlled Systems
These are the most advanced options. They use a cellular network or Bluetooth to connect to an app on your phone. You can start, lock, unlock, and often locate your car from virtually anywhere with cell service.
- Greatest convenience and longest range.
- Usually requires a monthly or annual subscription fee for cellular service.
- Offers additional features like GPS tracking and vehicle status alerts.
Key Components Of A Remote Start Kit
Understanding the parts involved demystifies the installation process. A typical kit includes several key components.
- Control Module: The brain of the system. It processes signals from the remote and interfaces with the car’s computers.
- Remote Transmitter(s): The key fob or device you use to send the start command.
- Wiring Harness: A set of wires and connectors that plug into the vehicle’s existing wiring, reducing the need for cutting and splicing.
- Antenna: Receives the signal from the remote transmitter.
- Security Bypass Module: Crucial for modern vehicles with factory immobilizers. It tricks the car into thinking the correct key is present.
- Installation Manual and Wiring Diagrams: Essential guides, especially for DIY attempts.
Professional Installation Versus DIY
This is one of the most important decisions you will make. Both options have there merits and drawbacks.
Benefits Of Professional Installation
Having a certified technician install your system is the recommended route for most people. It ensures reliability and protects your vehicle’s warranty.
- Expertise: Installers have experience with your specific vehicle’s wiring and security systems.
- Warranty: Both the parts and labor are usually covered by a warranty from the shop.
- Time-Saving: A professional can complete the job in a few hours, whereas a DIY project might take a weekend.
- Safety: Properly connecting to systems like the brake pedal switch and hood pin switch is critical for safe operation.
Considering The DIY Route
If you are experienced with automotive electronics and have the right tools, a DIY install can save money. However, it is not for the faint of heart.
- Cost Savings: You avoid paying for labor, which can be a significant portion of the total cost.
- Challenging Process: It requires reading wiring diagrams, locating specific wires, and making secure connections.
- Risk of Error: Mistakes can lead to a non-functioning system, a drained battery, or even damage to your car’s electrical system.
Step-By-Step Overview Of Installation
While every vehicle and kit is different, the general process follows a similar pattern. This overview gives you an idea of what’s involved.
- Disconnect the Battery: Always start by disconnecting the negative terminal to prevent shorts or electrical damage.
- Access Wiring Points: You will need to remove panels around the steering column, dash, and sometimes the kick panels to access the necessary wires.
- Identify and Connect Wires: Using the provided diagrams, you must locate specific wires for ignition, starter, power, ground, and accessories. Connections are made using T-taps, soldering, or butt connectors.
- Install Safety Switches: A hood pin switch must be installed to prevent starting when the hood is open. The system must also be connected to the brake pedal switch to shut off if the brake is pressed.
- Mount the Module and Antenna: The main control unit is usually secured behind the dash. The antenna is routed for best reception, often near the windshield.
- Program the System: This involves syncing the remotes and, for many modern cars, programming the security bypass module to work with your keys.
- Test Thoroughly: Reconnect the battery and test every function: start, stop, lock, unlock, and all safety features.
Cost Breakdown For Adding Remote Start
The total cost can vary widely. It is influenced by the type of system, your vehicle, and who does the installation.
System and Parts Cost
- Basic One-Way System: $50 – $150 for the kit itself.
- Quality Two-Way System: $150 – $300 for the kit.
- Smartphone-Controlled System: $200 – $500 for hardware, plus ongoing subscription fees ($50 – $100 per year).
- Required Extras: For many vehicles made after the mid-2000s, a separate security bypass module or a dedicated vehicle-specific harness is needed, adding $50 – $150 to the parts cost.
Professional Labor Costs
Labor is typically the largest expense. Shops may charge a flat rate or an hourly fee. The national average for a professional remote start installation ranges from $150 to $500 for labor alone. Complex vehicles (like those with push-button start or advanced security) will be at the higher end.
Legal And Safety Considerations
Before you install or use a remote start system, you must be aware of important legal and safety rules.
Idling Laws And Environmental Concerns
Many cities and states have laws limiting how long a vehicle can idle unattended. These laws are designed to reduce emissions and prevent theft. Always check your local regulations. Most remote start systems have a default runtime, often 10-15 minutes, after which the engine shuts off automatically to comply with these laws.
Critical Safety Features
A properly installed system includes non-negotiable safety protocols. These are designed to prevent accidents and theft.
- Hood Pin Switch: The engine will not start if the hood is open, protecting a technician working on the vehicle.
- Brake Shut-Off: The engine must immediately shut off if the brake pedal is pressed without a valid key in the ignition. This prevents unauthorized driving.
- Transmission Safety: The system will only engage if the vehicle is in “Park.” This is usually detected through a connection to the transmission range sensor or the parking brake.
Common Problems And Troubleshooting
Even with a good installation, you might encounter issues. Here are some common problems and there potential solutions.
- Vehicle Starts Then Immediately Stalls: This is almost always a problem with the security bypass module or the transponder key programming. The car’s immobilizer is shutting the engine down because it doesn’t detect a valid key.
- Remote Has Short Range: Check the antenna placement. It should not be coiled or placed near large metal objects. The remote’s battery may also be weak.
- System Drains The Battery: A parasitic drain indicates a wiring fault. The control module or a connection may be drawing power when the car is off. This requires professional diagnosis.
- Remote Functions Are Intermittent: This could be due to a poor electrical connection, a failing remote battery, or interference from other wireless devices in the area.
Maintaining Your Remote Start System
A little maintenance ensures your system works reliably for years to come.
- Replace Remote Batteries Regularly: Don’t wait for them to die completely. A weak battery reduces range and reliability.
- Keep The Remote Dry: Moisture is the enemy of electronics. Avoid leaving the remote in damp places.
- Annual Check-Up: If you had a professional installation, consider having the shop inspect the connections once a year, especially before winter.
- Update Software: For app-based systems, ensure your smartphone app and the module’s firmware are up to date for the best performance and security.
FAQ Section
Can I Add Remote Start To A Manual Transmission Car?
Yes, but it is more complex and requires additional safety steps. The installation must include a specific sequence to ensure the car is in neutral and the parking brake is set before the system will activate. This often involves extra sensors and careful setup. Not all installers will work on manual transmission vehicles, so you must find a specialist.
Will Adding An Aftermarket Remote Start Void My Car’s Warranty?
No, not legally. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in the United States, a dealer cannot void your entire vehicle warranty simply because you installed an aftermarket part. However, if they can prove that the remote start installation directly caused a specific failure (like an electrical issue), they may deny warranty coverage for that specific repair. Using a certified installer and quality parts provides the best protection.
How Long Does A Remote Start Installation Take?
A professional installation for a standard automatic transmission vehicle typically takes between 3 to 5 hours. More complex vehicles, such as those with push-button start or manual transmissions, can take longer, sometimes up to a full day. A DIY installation can take anywhere from 6 hours to an entire weekend, depending on your skill level.
Can You Install Remote Start On A Push-To-Start Car?
Yes, you can. Modern aftermarket systems are designed to work with keyless ignition systems. The installation often requires a more advanced security bypass module that interfaces digitally with the car’s computer network. The process is more intricate and usually costs more than an installation for a traditional key-turn ignition.
Is Remote Start Bad For Your Engine?
Used responsibly, remote start is not bad for your engine. In fact, it can be beneficial in extreme cold by allowing oil to circulate and the cabin to warm up before you drive. The key is moderation. Letting the car run for 5-10 minutes is sufficient. Excessive idling for very long periods is unnecessary, wastes fuel, and can lead to carbon buildup in some engines over a very long time.