[Philkotse guide] Do you really need a remote starter in your car?

Most of the vehicles we have today have lots of techy features that make driving a lot more convenient. One of those many features is the remote car starter. Philkotse.com will explain what remote car starter is and if you really need the said feature.

1. What is a remote car starter?

Remote car starter is called by many names: remote start system, auto starter, and car starter.

Basically, a remote car starter is a radio-controlled, wireless tool that starts the vehicle’s engine from a particular distance. It usually comes in the form of little remote controls or key fobs with engine ignition buttons and sometimes it comes with other functions too.

Generally, the distance from which the device will work is indicated on the packaging of the item. Other models will work within a distance of 500 or 1000 feet. Some more robust starters have a longer range that can work as far as a mile.

A remote car starter is a radio-controlled, wireless tool that starts the vehicle’s engine from a particular distance

Aside from starting your vehicle, there are car starter models that are capable of locking and unlocking the car's door, warming up the seats, popping the trunk, and even controlling stuff from your phone.

Most models also have a keyless entry feature. To be sure, thoroughly read the specifications of your device to know the things it can and can't do.

>>> Check out: 3 useful tips on how to choose a remote car starter for your vehicle.

2. How does a remote start system work?

This device works via radiofrequency. There's a box connected to the vehicle's ignition switch and other primary start-up mechanisms. By pressing the ignition button on the remote or key fob, the signal is sent to the box telling the system to start the engine.

Frequencies

A remote start system or remote keyless ignition system is a system designed to start a vehicle without the need to get into the car and turn on the engine physically. This device offers lots of benefits. One is the convenience of starting the vehicle and letting it warm up without you, leaving the house.

Each model has a unique radio signal in which you can assure that the device will only work for your vehicle. And other remote starters won't be able to start or open your vehicle without your authorization.

Remote car starter allows users to start the vehicle and letting it warm up without you, leaving the house

Engine Ignition

The remote starter is actually a small piece of device installed in the vehicle. As stated above, it is a box that receives the signal from the remote control of the user. It enables the user to switch systems with just a click of a button.

The said box should be linked to the power wire, ignition switch, ignition wire, brake wire, starter wire, vehicle’s ground wire, and tachometer. It may sound complicated, but it is easy to identify each wire.

The remote starter is actually a small piece of device installed in the vehicle

The wires are also found in the same spot in the vehicle. Once the starter receives the signal sent by the remote, it switches on the said systems. It will start the engine, allowing preset settings such as heat to come on and start working. It will also lock the doors and will blink the lights, which is an indication that it is functioning.

>>> You might want to know: Top 8 symptoms of a failing car starter.

3. Benefits of remote car starter

Good for the engine

During the cold season, driving the car without warming up the engine will be hard on the motor. The engine needs to warm up to provide heat to the oil. It will provide better lubrication for the engine.

In particular, it's more important to warm up old car models and trucks that have a diesel engine. Every time you head out for the day or on your way home from a long and tiring workday, all you need to do is to push the start button of the remote starter. Then you will have your car's engine warm up even without physically entering the vehicle.

Push the start button of the remote starter and you have your car's engine warm-up without entering the vehicle

>>> Read more: Potential dangers of Start/Stop push-button.

Safety and security

Remote car starter gives extra safety and security to vehicles. It is one of the best benefits that the device can offer. With the remote car starter, you can quickly start the vehicle without the need to leave the keys in it.

Remote car starter gives extra safety and security to vehicles

Pre-warm or pre-cool the interior

Another benefit of having a remote control car starter is, it enables users to get into a cold or warm car cabin. During the hot season, you can simply push the start button to start the car and turn on the air-conditioning unit of your vehicle. You don't have to enter a hot car cabin and wait for the car's aircon to take effect. You can pre-cool it using your remote car starter.

A remote control car starter enables users to get into a cold or warm car cabin

The same concept can be done during the cold season. You can leave the car’s heater on using the remote car starter before getting in the car. That way, you don’t have to wait for the car’s heater to take effect. You will get into your vehicle with a readily warm cabin.

It increases the car’s resale value

If you install a remote car starter to your car, you don't only add convenience for your driving experience, but you also increase the resale value of your car. Adding a remote car starter is one of the inexpensive modifications a car owner can do. It will give car owners a useful selling point whether you make a trade-in at a car dealership or sell it to a private individual.

4. Bottomline

Car remote starters are a handy device that makes the driving experience of most drivers more convenient. Aside from convenience, it also provides several benefits as aforementioned.

Aside from convenience, it also provides several benefits as aforementioned

The need to install a remote starter to your vehicle depends on the needs of the driver or car owner. If you want extra car security, added resale value, pre-cool or pre-warm feature and a good engine, then installing a remote starter is the best option for you. If your vehicle doesn’t have a remote starter, you can ask a professional to have one installed in your car.