What do you need to know about remote car starters?
Remote car starters are, basically, what they sound like: a wireless, radio-controlled tool that starts your car’s engine from a certain distance away. Most often, these gadgets come in the form of key fobs, or little remote controls with buttons for engine ignition and, sometimes,…
Do you need a bypass module for a remote starter?
Beware services that don’t explicitly include a bypass-module installation. If it turns out your car needs a bypass module (over 95% of cars on the road do, FYI), that service can cost you up to an additional $150 after the remote starter has been installed—not a very fun surprise.
How old do you have to be to reset your remote starter?
If your car is five years old or newer, you’re likely in for a trip to the dealership; many new transponder keys can only be reset by the service department. But for older cars, The Drive’s crack How-To department is here to help and get that remote working once again.
Are there any disadvantages to using a remote starter?
Another disadvantage to a remote starter is the fuel you’re wasting while warming up the vehicle. And while most people don’t think twice about this aspect, the fact is that you’re going to be filling up more than usual when you use your remote starter.
Remote car starters are, basically, what they sound like: a wireless, radio-controlled tool that starts your car’s engine from a certain distance away. Most often, these gadgets come in the form of key fobs, or little remote controls with buttons for engine ignition and, sometimes,…
What happens when the remote starter does not work?
If they no longer flash when you ask your vehicle to lock or unlock using the remote starter controller, you may be in valet mode. If you can lock and unlock your doors just fine but ONLY the remote start does not work, you may be in valet mode.
Beware services that don’t explicitly include a bypass-module installation. If it turns out your car needs a bypass module (over 95% of cars on the road do, FYI), that service can cost you up to an additional $150 after the remote starter has been installed—not a very fun surprise.
If your car is five years old or newer, you’re likely in for a trip to the dealership; many new transponder keys can only be reset by the service department. But for older cars, The Drive’s crack How-To department is here to help and get that remote working once again.