Remote Start Frequently Asked Questions

Remote Start FAQ

Each year, we install hundreds of remote start systems.  Here we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions...

Q. Will a Remote Start System void my new car warranty?
A. NO.
  We install remote start systems for many of the area car dealerships.  When properly installed, today’s remote start systems are fully compatible with the complex electronic systems in newer vehicles.  Federal Law prevents an auto manufacturer from voiding a new car warranty because you chose to have non-factory accessories installed.  For more info, Google Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975.

Q. How long will it take?
A.
Installation time varies greatly from vehicle to vehicle.  Please make arrangements to leave your vehicle with us for an entire day. 

Q. What should I bring with me?
A.
Please bring two ignition keys that will both start the vehicle.  Many of the interface modules we use require two keys for programming.

Q. What's the difference between a 1-Way and a 2-Way remote start?
A. With a traditional 1-way remote start, you press the button, the car starts, and the parking lights flash to confirm.  This is just fine when you can see your vehicle.  But with a 2-way system, you'll receive an audible and visible confirmation ON THE REMOTE, after you press the button.  This confirms that the vehicle received the signal.  Then you'll receive another confirmation ON THE REMOTE, after your car has successfully started.  So if you're far away or inside a building where you can't see, there's never any guessing whether or not the signal reached the car or if it actually started.  For the best remote start experience, we highly recommend any of our 2-way systems!

Q. I keep hearing about DRONE.  What's DRONE?
A. DRONE is a Smart-Interface that allows control of remote start, door locks, and more from your smartphone, tablet, smart watch, or PC.
Other features include location and speed monitoring, maintenance reminders, and vehicle health information such as battery voltage alerts. DRONE is now compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant!

Q. My car is a stick shift.  Can you install a Remote Start?
A. YES!
  We have remote starts designed to work safely on stick shifts.  There is a small additional charge for stick shift vehicles.

Q.  I have a diesel engine.  Can you install a Remote Start?
A.  YES!
  We have remote starts designed for diesels.  When you activate your remote start, it will wait for the glow plugs or manifold heaters to turn off before it attempts to start.  There is a small additional charge for diesel vehicles.

Q. My key has a chip in it.  Can you install a Remote Start?
A. YES!  While other shops charge extra for the necessary modules, we don’t.  While there are a few exceptions to this, we include the necessary module for 99.9% of the vehicles out there today.

Q. My vehicle has a push-button start (Smart Key).  Can you install a remote start?
A. YES!  For most Smart-Key / push-button start vehicles, we are able to install a remote start.  There is a small additional charge for these vehicles.

Q. How long will my vehicle stay running?
A.
Standard run-time for any of our CompuStar Remote Start systems is 25 minutes, for most vehicles.  This is usually plenty of time for your vehicle to warm up on even the coldest mornings.  Upon request, we can set a shorter or longer run-time.

Q. Can somebody take my car while it is remote started?
A. NO.  If your car is locked, it will remain locked.  The steering wheel and shifter (automatic trans) will also stay locked.  Most importantly, you must insert your key in the ignition before you can drive away.  If anyone attempts to drive away without the key in the ignition, the engine will shut off as soon as you put your foot on the brake pedal.

Q. How much will I save if I install it myself?
A
Because of the complex nature of Remote Start Systems, we do not offer them for sale without installation.

Q. How much will you charge to install a remote start I bought on the internet?
A
In order to maintain our high quality standards, we do not install remote start systems purchased elsewhere.