Remote start installation typically costs between $300 and $1,500, depending on your vehicle, the system you choose, and who installs it
The price you pay depends on three main things: whether your car already has the wiring and hardware to support remote start, which brand and features you pick, and whether you go to a dealership, an independent shop, or a big-box retailer. A straightforward aftermarket system on a car with straightforward wiring might run $400 to $600 total. A luxury vehicle that needs custom integration, or a system with extra features like smartphone control, can easily reach $1,200 or more. Labor alone usually falls between $150 and $400, though some shops charge flat rates and others charge hourly.
The biggest variable is your specific vehicle. Newer cars with existing remote-start capability built into the factory system cost far less to set up — sometimes just $50 to $200 to reprogram at a dealership. Older vehicles or those without any remote-start infrastructure need a full aftermarket system installed, which is where costs climb.
Key Takeaways
- Total cost ranges from $300 to $1,500, with labor typically $150 to $400 of that total.
- Vehicles that already have remote-start wiring or capability built in cost far less to set up than those requiring a complete aftermarket system.
- Dealerships usually charge more than independent shops, but may offer better integration with your vehicle's existing electronics.
- The brand and features you choose — smartphone control, range, integration with your car's security system — significantly affect the final price.
What the labor cost covers
Installation labor includes running wires through your vehicle's dashboard and steering column, connecting the system to your ignition and battery, programming the remote or app, and testing everything. The time required depends on how accessible your vehicle's wiring is and whether the installer needs to remove trim panels or work around airbags and other safety systems.
Most independent shops charge either a flat rate for remote-start installation (usually $200 to $350) or an hourly rate ($75 to $150 per hour, typically taking 2 to 4 hours). Dealerships often charge higher hourly rates but may complete the work faster if they have done it many times on your exact model. Big-box retailers like Best Buy or Car Toys usually fall in the middle on price and may offer package deals that bundle the system and labor together.
How your vehicle's existing systems affect price
If your car was built in the last five to ten years, it may already have remote-start capability that just needs to be activated. Many manufacturers include the hardware but lock the feature behind a software setting or a dealership-only set up. In these cases, a dealership can turn it on for $50 to $200, sometimes as part of a software update.
Vehicles with push-button start, keyless entry, or advanced security systems are more expensive to integrate with an aftermarket remote-start system because the installer must may support the new system communicates properly with existing electronics. Luxury brands and high-security vehicles can cost significantly more. Conversely, older vehicles with straightforward mechanical ignitions and basic wiring are often cheaper to retrofit because there is less risk of interfering with other systems.
Aftermarket system brands and their price ranges
Budget systems from brands like Viper, Avital, and Compustar start around $300 to $500 for the hardware alone, before labor. Mid-range systems with better range or smartphone capability run $500 to $800. Premium systems with advanced features — two-way communication, GPS tracking, or deep integration with your vehicle's factory system — can cost $800 to $1,200 or more before installation.
Smartphone-controlled systems cost more than basic remote-only systems because they require additional hardware and ongoing connectivity. Some systems charge a monthly or annual fee for app access, usually $10 to $20 per year, though many now include a trial period. The range also matters: basic systems work up to 1,000 feet, while premium systems can work from miles away if they have cellular connectivity.
Where you choose to install it matters
Dealerships typically charge the most but offer the advantage of deep knowledge of your specific vehicle and direct access to factory systems. If your car has built-in remote-start capability that just needs set up, a dealership is often the fastest and safest choice. Expect to pay $100 to $300 just for labor at a dealership, plus the cost of any hardware.
Independent car alarm or electronics shops usually undercut dealerships by 20 to 40 percent and often have more flexibility on system choice. They may also be faster for scheduling. Big-box retailers like Best Buy offer convenience and sometimes bundle pricing, but their technicians may have less experience with your specific vehicle model. Some tire shops and quick-lube places also offer remote-start installation, usually at competitive prices, though quality and warranty coverage vary widely.
Additional costs to expect
Beyond the system and labor, you may encounter extra charges. If your vehicle needs new wiring harnesses or adapters specific to your model, that can add $50 to $150. Some shops charge a diagnostic fee ($50 to $100) if they need to inspect your vehicle's wiring before quoting a price. If the installer discovers that your vehicle's electrical system is damaged or incompatible, repairs could add significantly to the total.
Warranty coverage varies by shop and system. Most aftermarket systems come with a one- to three-year manufacturer warranty on the hardware. Labor warranties are typically one year. Dealership installations usually include a longer warranty, sometimes matching your vehicle's warranty period. Always ask what is covered before you commit.
How to get an accurate quote for your vehicle
Call or visit three to five shops with your vehicle's year, make, model, and trim level. Be specific about what features you want — smartphone control, range, integration with your existing key fob. Ask whether they will use a brand you specify or if they have a preferred system. Request a quote that breaks down the system cost, labor cost, and any additional fees separately.
Ask each shop whether your vehicle already has remote-start capability built in, because that changes the price dramatically. If you are unsure, your vehicle's manual or a quick call to your dealership can tell you. Also ask about warranty coverage on both the hardware and the labor, and whether the shop offers any may provide if the system fails shortly after installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install remote start myself to save money?
If you have electrical experience and your vehicle has straightforward wiring, you might save $200 to $400 in labor. However, mistakes can damage your vehicle's electrical system or disable safety features. Most people find the complexity not worth the savings, and many shops will not warranty work you have done yourself.
Will remote start void my vehicle's warranty?
Factory-installed remote start or set up of built-in capability will not void your warranty. Aftermarket systems installed by a professional shop typically do not either, as long as the installer does not damage other systems. Dealerships may be more cautious, so ask before you proceed.
What is the difference between a remote-only system and a smartphone system?
A remote-only system uses a key fob with a limited range, usually 1,000 feet or less. A smartphone system lets you start your car from anywhere with cellular service, but costs more upfront and may charge a yearly fee for app access. Remote-only systems are simpler and more reliable for basic use.
Do I need to replace my remote start system if I get a new car?
Most aftermarket systems are vehicle-specific and cannot transfer to a different car. If you buy a new vehicle, you would need a new system installed. However, if your new car has built-in remote start, you may not need an aftermarket system at all.
How long does installation usually take?
Most installations take two to four hours. straightforward activations of existing factory capability at a dealership might take 30 minutes to an hour. Complex integrations or vehicles with difficult wiring access can take longer. Ask the shop for an estimate before you drop off your vehicle.