Aremote car starter is a small device that allows you to start the engine without inserting a physical key in the ignition. The appropriate wiring, a bypass module, acontrol module, and aremote transmitter are needed for a remote start setup.
A lot of remote car starters operate in two-way mode. Some of these are also compatible with most smartphones, making it more convenient to start your vehicle without the key fob. Upon pressing the remote starter, signals are sent to the control module via radio frequencies.
Remote starters have been around longer than most people realize. The first U.S. patent for a remote car starter was issued in 1963 to Samuel Fried of Omaha, Nebraska.
But it wasn’t until the 1980s that remote start systems began appearing more widely, thanks to companies like Fortin in Canada that developed bypass modules to work around factory anti-theft systems.
In most modern vehicles, OEM remote start systems are integrated into the Body Control Module (BCM) rather than being standalone units or part of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
Tips for Using the Remote Car Starter
The remote starter may fail due to electrical faults. However, some instances require simple solutions to resolve such issues, such as resetting the remote starter.
Performing several lock/unlock cycles and inserting the key in the ignition will typically reset the remote start system. The exact steps may vary, depending on your vehicle’s specifications.
It’s best to consult your vehicle owner’s manual or have a professional inspect your vehicle if you plan on installing a remote start system.
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