Q&A for How to Install a Remote Starter in a Car

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How much will this cost if I have it installed by a professional?

Frank Hernandez
Auto Technician
Frank Hernandez is an ASE Master Certified Technician based in La Palma, CA. With over 7 years of experience, Frank is certified in collision, maintenance and light, and undercar repair. He is currently an Automotive Technology Instructor teaching on-board diagnostics, maintenance & repair, and customer service. Frank has an Associate of Science degree in Automotive Engineering Technology from Cypress College.

Frank Hernandez

Auto Technician

Expert Answer

The cost may vary due to factors like the hourly rate of the mechanic or shop, the type of system you’re installing it into, and the complexity of your vehicle’s wiring. On average, you can expect to pay somewhere between $150 and $400 for the installation. This range often includes both the labor and the starter unit itself, but it’s always a good idea to confirm what’s included when getting quotes. The installation process involves connecting the remote starter to your car’s ignition and starting system, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to a couple of hours. The time and cost will depend on how complex your car’s electrical system is. For example, newer cars with advanced security systems or a push to start button might require additional modules or extra work, which can push up the price. You can shop around and ask for estimates from a few reputable shops to get an idea for price ranges in your area.

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Question

When my remote starter is on, the park lights do not turn on. What does that mean? And how do I fix it?

Community Answer

Check your parking lights connection - that seems to be the only possible problem unless you have a faulty system.

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Question

Is it necessary to connect a remote starter to any other components of my car?

Community Answer

No, you don't need to connect the remote starter to any other components after following the instructions here.

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Question

After installing the remote starter, my car seems to be struggling to have enough power to run the engine and electronics, but if I use the normal start this does not happen. What should I do?

Community Answer

The system may be either drawing too much power, or, when you use the remote start, the engine may start, but not generate enough power. Get it checked out from a certified dealer.

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Question

Why did my check engine light come on after doing this?

Community Answer

There are different things that can cause a check engine light to turn on. It may not have anything with the remote starter. You should go to a car place that can use a special diagnostic tool to find out. Many car places, including Auto Zone, will do this for free.

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Question

How do I tell if a vehicle already has a remote starter?

Community Answer

Look on the windshield, most likely close to the rear-view mirror. If there's a remote starter, there'll be a component similar to the object in the man's hand from Step 10. That's the sensor that receives the signal from the key fob.

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Question

My truck starts and the doors lock, but the engine shuts down in a few seconds. What's wrong?

Brian Powers

Community Answer

There are a few things that might cause that. No tach signal connected to the engine, tach signal not programmed into the remote start system, no immobilizer bypass interface installed with the remote start, immobilizer interface not properly programmed, or immobilizer interface wiring issues.

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Question

I have a home generator. I would like to install a remote starter for it. Can this be done?

Brian Powers

Community Answer

While it is technically possible, it is not advisable or practical. The remote start module would need to be protected from both weather and engine heat. The engine would need some type of tachometer signal for the remote start to work, or the remote start would have to have voltage-sensing capability. Also, simply starting a home generator does not automatically transfer your home's electrical service to the generator. That is done with a separate automatic transfer system that detects a loss of line voltage coming from your utility service.

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