Some, like our top pick, the Viper 5906V, can control your car from up to a mile away and feature an OLED display with which to access a wealth of powerful features. Others allow you to access numerous functions via a companion app on your smartphone. There are many proven aftermarket options available. Keep in mind that, though many are quite affordably priced for all the advantages they provide, you might also need to figure in the cost of installation depending on which model you decide to buy. We’ve taken a close look at a bunch of different options, and there’s a remote car starter here for everyone. The 5906V includes the ability to pair the system to your smartphone and control it through a companion app, though you will need to purchase the additional Smart Start module to enable this functionality. The batteries in the remote last a full six months on a single 60-minute charge. The only real caveat here is that the remotes are quite bulky, and the system is quite expensive, but if you can afford it this is the single best option on the market right now. The RS4-G5 is compatible with both automatic and manual transmission vehicles and offers smartphone control if you also purchase the optional Mobile Start MS-3 module. On the downside, the system lacks more advanced security features and only has an operating range of up to 2,000 feet. However, it’s very attractively priced at only around $60, which makes it a tasty bargain.
What to Look For in a Remote Car Starter
Two-Way connectivity
While some remote car starters use a simple one-way transmitter to send simple instructions to your vehicle, others implement a two-way system where information is also transmitted back to the remote. This allows for information such as temperature and alarms to be sent to you from your car.
Security features
A remote car starter can add significant security features to prevent theft of or from your vehicle. Some devices can remotely disconnect the ignition system in your car and prevent the car from being hotwired. Some also feature alarms, or the ability to be connected to existing security systems in your vehicle.
Smartphone compatibility
Often remote car starters will feature additional connectivity options that allow you to access various capabilities on your smartphone. This is particularly useful for viewing information gathered by the remote starter on a large screen.
Ease of installation
The kit you buy and the vehicle you install it in will dictate the difficulty of installing a remote car starter. Some older vehicles may require extra adaptors. If you aren’t confident in your ability to install a remote car starter, or your particular installation scenario is overly complicated, it may be best to have a professional install it.
