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Started a car using a remote
Keyless entry
Lock or unlock the trunk
So, if you only want to start a car using a remote, then most any car starter will do fine. If by chance you want more, then read on because the features vary. One common we requirement we keep seeing is the type of vehicle these starters work with. The vehicle needs to be fuel injected and have an automatic transmission. In our reviews of these products, we didn't see any for a manual transmission vehicle.
Effective Range
How much range do you need? Is your car just outside your home or do you need a longer range like 1,000 feet?
Run-Time Confirmation
Is it important to know that your car is running? Some models have this feature that will turn on the parking lights or dome lights when you start the vehicle remotely. Some higher priced models will alert an LCD display on the transmitter when the car is running.
Pit-Stop Feature
This feature lets you leave the vehicle running and secured while you run into a store. Basically, you can take the key and keep it with you while you're in the store and the car will keep running but prevents someone from driving away since it requires the key to move the car.
Built-In Alarm
If you need an alarm, make sure and look for this feature since not every remote car starter has this. Some units have kits that will let you bypass the manufacturer's factory alarm so it's important to know if you need this o not.
Run Accessories
This is also important to think. For example, the unit can automatically start your heater, air conditioner or the defroster for you when the vehicle is started.
Run Time
Some of the better models let you set how long the car should run when you start it, typically 5, 10, 15, 20, or 25 minutes. Other models will merely start the car and don't have any run time setting.
Automatic Start
Some models will automatically start your car at predetermined times, like every 3hours, or when the temperature drops to a certain degree.
Valet Mode
This lets you disable the remote features when you use a valet to park your vehicle.
Panic Alarm
Like most keyless entry transmitters, some models will let you press the "panic" button to set off the alarm.
Installation
If you plan to install this yourself, pick a remote car starter that also has the installation kits. Some kits are needed for vehicles that already have an alarm, an alarm bypass kit. Some kits have vehicle manufacture wiring kits. If you plan to install this yourself, you should be comfortable cutting and splicing wires and automotive electric systems. If you're not comfortable, please get it professionally installed or at least ask a friend that has already installed at least one.
We saw some models start around $50 at Amazon.com
They carry Bulldog remote starters, that started around the $50 mark and went upwards. Design Tech that also has a lower end unit and mid range models. Their top of the line, currently, is the Airwolf model. This unit has just about all the bells and whistles like multi color LCD display transmitter that shows the status of the vehicle, like if it's running or not, and also if the alarm has been activated. Shoppers Choice has a good selection, including the Airwolf model, click here or click here for their automotive section.
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