Remote start lets you start your engine from outside the vehicle using a key fob or smartphone app, so the car warms up or cools down before you get in.
You have two main routes: buy an aftermarket remote start system and have a professional installer wire it in, or purchase a factory remote start option if your car's manufacturer offers one. Aftermarket systems range from basic push-button starters to smartphone-controlled units. Factory systems integrate directly with your car's existing electronics and often come with your vehicle's warranty coverage.
The installation itself is not a DIY job for most people — it involves running wires through your dashboard, connecting to your ignition and starter systems, and programming the unit to your car's specific make and model. A professional installer handles all of this and tests the system before you leave.
Key Takeaways
- Aftermarket remote start systems cost between $300 and $1,500 installed, depending on features and your vehicle's complexity.
- Factory remote start, if available for your car, integrates with your existing key fob and costs less than aftermarket but offers fewer customization options.
- Professional installation is required for both types because the system must connect safely to your car's electrical and ignition systems.
- Some insurance companies offer small discounts for remote start because the feature reduces time spent idling in cold weather.
Aftermarket remote start systems and what they cost
An aftermarket remote start system is a third-party device you purchase separately and have installed in your car. These systems range from basic models that start your engine with a button press to advanced units that let you lock and unlock doors, pop the trunk, and control climate settings from your phone.
Basic aftermarket systems typically cost $300 to $600 before installation. Mid-range systems with smartphone control and more features run $600 to $1,000. High-end systems with GPS tracking, remote door locks, and integration with your car's factory alarm can reach $1,500 or more. Installation labor usually adds $100 to $300 on top of the unit's price, though this varies by installer and your vehicle's wiring complexity.
Aftermarket systems work on most vehicles, including older cars that don't have factory remote start. However, some luxury or newer vehicles have security systems that make installation difficult or impossible without disabling safety features. Ask an installer whether your specific car model is compatible before you commit.
Factory remote start: when your car manufacturer offers it
If your car's manufacturer built remote start into the design, you can order it as a factory option when you buy the vehicle, or sometimes add it later through the dealership. Factory remote start uses your existing key fob and integrates seamlessly with your car's computer and security system.
Factory remote start typically costs $200 to $500 when ordered with a new car, depending on the manufacturer. Adding it to a car you already own costs more — usually $400 to $800 installed — because the dealership has to order the hardware and reprogram your vehicle's systems. The advantage is that factory systems come with your car's warranty and don't void any coverage.
The downside is limited customization. Factory systems usually offer only basic remote start through your key fob; smartphone control, if available, often requires a separate subscription service through the manufacturer's app.
What happens during professional installation
A professional installer begins by examining your car's electrical system and determining the safest routing for new wires. They remove panels from your dashboard and steering column to access the ignition switch and starter connections. This step takes the most time because every car's interior layout is different.
Next, the installer runs the remote start module's wires through the dashboard, under the carpet, and along the frame to reach the battery and ground points. They connect the module to your ignition switch, starter, and parking brake (if your car has one — many remote start systems won't function unless the parking brake is engaged for safety). They also connect the system to your car's alarm or security system if you have one.
Once all connections are complete, the installer programs the remote start unit to your car's specific make, model, and year. This programming tells the system how long to crank the engine, whether to require the brake pedal to be pressed before shifting into gear, and how to communicate with your key fob or smartphone. The installer then tests the system multiple times to confirm it starts and stops reliably.
How to choose between aftermarket and factory remote start
Choose factory remote start if your car manufacturer offers it and you plan to keep the vehicle for several years. You get warranty coverage, seamless integration, and no risk of voiding other warranties. The trade-off is less flexibility — you cannot add features later or switch to a different system easily.
Choose aftermarket remote start if you want more features, your car doesn't have a factory option, or you want smartphone control that doesn't require a monthly subscription. Aftermarket systems are more customizable and work on a wider range of vehicles. The downside is that installation voids some warranties on aftermarket parts, though it typically does not affect your car's factory warranty.
If you lease your car, check your lease agreement before installing anything. Most leases prohibit permanent modifications, and you may have to remove the system before returning the vehicle.
Where to find a professional installer
Car audio and alarm shops are the most common source for aftermarket remote start installation. These businesses specialize in running wires through dashboards and programming aftermarket electronics. Search online for "remote start installation near me" or ask your local mechanic for a referral.
For factory remote start, contact your car's dealership directly. They can tell you whether your specific vehicle supports it, what it costs, and how long installation takes. Dealership installation is usually more expensive than independent shops but guarantees the work is done correctly and covered under warranty.
Before you commit, get a quote that includes both the unit cost and labor. Ask the installer how long the work takes — most installations finish in one to three hours — and whether they offer any warranty on their work.
Common issues and what to watch for
The most common problem after installation is the remote start not working in cold weather. This usually happens because the installer set the crank time too short for your engine in freezing temperatures. A good installer tests in various conditions and adjusts the settings accordingly.
Another issue is the system draining your battery if the car sits unused for weeks. Quality aftermarket systems have a low-power mode that prevents this, but cheaper units may not. Ask your installer whether the system has battery protection before installation.
Some people report that remote start interferes with their car's factory security system or causes warning lights to appear on the dashboard. This usually means the installer did not program the system correctly for your specific vehicle. If this happens, return to the installer and ask them to reprogram it — this should be free if they did the work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will remote start void my car's warranty?
Factory remote start does not void your warranty because it is part of your car's original design. Aftermarket remote start typically does not void your factory warranty either, but it may void the warranty on the aftermarket parts themselves. Ask your dealership and installer for clarification before installation.
Can I install remote start myself?
Most people should not attempt this themselves. The system requires connecting to your car's ignition and starter circuits, which can damage your electrical system or create a fire hazard if done incorrectly. Professional installers have the tools and training to do this safely.
Does remote start work if my car is locked?
Yes, that is the whole point — remote start works from outside the vehicle. However, most systems require you to unlock the car and press the brake pedal before you can shift into gear and drive, even though the engine is already running.
How much does remote start add to my car's fuel consumption?
Remote start uses a small amount of fuel each time you start the engine, but the overall impact on fuel consumption is minimal. Many people actually save fuel because they warm up the engine before driving, which improves efficiency compared to driving a cold engine.
Can I add remote start to an older car?
Most cars from the 1990s onward can have aftermarket remote start installed. Older vehicles with simpler electrical systems may have compatibility issues. Ask an installer to inspect your specific car before you decide.