Remote starters are great for those frigid mornings when you want to slide into a nice and toasty vehicle for the drive to work. However, before you rush out and purchase one, there are a few things you need to know about remote starters.
Ranges
All remote starters have a specified range as to how far you can be from the vehicle to start to it. These ranges are typically between 500 feet and 5,000 feet. This broad range is important, as they are based on no interference between the transmitter and the vehicle. If you plan to start a vehicle right outside your door, a 500-foot range will work. If you know your car will be downstairs or buried deep in a parking lot, the highest range is the best option.
The Damage Myth
There is a myth that remote starters can damage your vehicle. The truth of this is, a properly installed, high quality system will not cause any damage. Incidents where cars have quit running or even caught fire are typically due to being installed improperly, although extremely cheap systems are also unreliable.
Installation Matters
As mentioned, you need to have your remote starter installed by a professional that understands the intricacies of the system and how to run the wiring. Vehicles have become more complex over the years, and that complexity can be a problem if someone doesn’t have the proper knowledge of the systems involved. This is one case where the cheapest installer is not necessarily the best option. Make sure to do your research to protect yourself and your vehicle.
Warranty Concerns
It’s also important to understand that having a remote starter professionally installed will not void your vehicle’s warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975 prohibits the voiding of a warranty based on adding after-market products, unless the FTC has noted the specific product as causing failures. If an issue occurs with your remote starter that is not covered under your manufacture warranty, it should fall to the shop that installed it to take care of the damages.
Programming
You will also need to decide if you want a remote starter that activates the rear defrost or heated seats, or provides keyless entry. There are remote starters available that can have these features added, but you will need to pay for the additional options.
Remote starters are a major convenience, but you need to make sure you choose the right installer and product to ensure everything works properly.
