What You Need to Know When Buying a Remote Car Starter

As the weather starts to get colder, getting out of bed and into your car can really start to become a challenge. Snow, icy roads, and general discomfort can make you want to roll over and go back to sleep. Thankfully, you can beat at least some of that winter gloom with a remote car starter. With the ability to start your car from a distance, and an upgradable design to grant you more features as you need them, a remote car starter can make your day-to-day life a little easier. Let's get into what you need to know when buying a remote car starter.

Why Get a Remote Car Starter?

As we already mentioned, the main reason for getting a remote car starter is to be able to start your car from far away. That means running the car and heating it up while you finish getting ready for work or school in the winter. By the time you get out there, the car will already be defrosted and ready to go. What's more, warming up your engine for a few extra minutes during extremely cold temperatures allows it to reach the appropriate operating temperature, which is beneficial for your engine's operation in the long run. Remotely starting your car also means enjoying a cooled-down car during the summer. No more hot seats or uncomfortable rides while the cool air ramps up - you'll have a nice air-conditioned car the moment you step inside.

Choosing a Remote Start System

When it comes to choosing a remote start system, you'll have to take a few things into account. Modern remote start controllers, which act as the main units to remote start systems, are fully digital and come loaded with tons of helpful features in addition to being able to remotely start your car. Though these controllers are upgradable most of the time, it's important to be aware of a few different terms when you're shopping for your initial system. The biggest thing you'll need to be aware of is the difference between 1-way and 2-way remotes.

1-Way Remotes

Many remote car start systems use 1-way remotes. A remote in this context refers to the little device you use to communicate with the controller to start your car. All of these remotes, 1-way or otherwise, send out radio signals to the controller to perform an action. 1-way remote start systems send a command to the controller to start your engine, and some models also allow you to lock or unlock your doors remotely, or even pop your trunk. The difference between these and a 2-way remote is that they don't get a signal back. That means, once you hit the start button, you won't get any confirmation that the car got the signal. Though this may seem like a limitation, these remotes work from a far distance, usually up to about a quarter mile away. Once you hit the button, unless you're very far from your car, it should work without a problem. 1-way remotes may seem basic, but they get the job done and are budget-friendly.

2-Way Remotes

2-way remotes give you a confirmation, usually in the form of a light on the remote, to let you know that your command to the controller went through successfully. With a visual cue, you'll know for sure that your car is on and waiting for you. Like the 1-way remotes, many models also come with the ability to lock, unlock, and pop the trunk on your car. You'll get a confirmation when those commands go through too. On top of this added peace of mind, 2-way remotes also tend to work from even farther away than 1-way remotes, usually with a range of about 1 mile. If you want to be absolutely sure that your car is running, and need that extra distance boost, a 2-way remote may be right for you.

Smartphone Control

If you want to forego the remote altogether, you can get a smartphone starter upgrade for your controller. With this, you'll be able to remotely start your car from almost any range since your smartphone will send the command over a cellular or WiFi network. The app associated with these starters usually comes with a handful of extra perks as well. You'll likely be able to lock, unlock, or pop the trunk of your car, and some of these apps can even show you the live location of your vehicle. Though they tend to be a bit pricier than a 1-way or 2-way remote, smartphone controls come with a bunch of benefits to compensate for that. If you want extra features and the ability to monitor your car no matter where you are, you may be interested in a smartphone-controlled remote car starter.

Vehicle Compatibility

You'll also need to be sure that your chosen model is compatible with your vehicle. This will depend on how new your car is, whether it's a luxury vehicle, and whether it has a push-to-start or a standard key ignition. You don't want to go through the hassle of buying a unit that you like only to find out that it doesn't work with your car, so don't skip this step!

Security Upgrades

Once you've got your remote start system installed and you've chosen your remote, you can start to look at security upgrades. Security upgrades for your remote starter usually come with a siren tone, a tilt sensor, and a shock sensor. That means even the slightest hint of nefarious activity will alert anyone nearby to the commotion, deterring thieves.

Installation

The last thing you need to consider when buying a remote car starter, especially if you're giving a remote starter as a gift, is the installation. When you buy yours at P.C. Richard & Son, you'll receive an invoice number and a phone number to call in order to book your installation at a P.C. Richard & Son installation center. These appointments are made through a centralized system, making it easy to choose from available times and locations to find the most convenient option for you. Please note that a part called a T-harness may be required for the remote starter to be installed, which can only be purchased at the time of installation.

A remote starter can be a game-changer year-round. No more letting an icy windshield make you late for work, or burning yourself on hot leather seats. Simply push a button, and let your remote starter take some of the hassle out of your commute.