The Best Remote Car Starters
Remote car starters are pretty useful for starting or cranking the car on a distance.
They can help you access the car for whatever reason remotely or secure it.
The significant thing to look for in a remote car starter is the compatibility with your car and transmitter range.
However, some remote starters come with exciting features.
We are here with a list of top ten remote car starters to help you pick the best one for you.
Highest Rated Remote Car Starters (by Customer Reviews)
- 1Factory OEM Remote Activated Plug and Play Remote Start
- 2Avital 5305L 2-Way LCD Remote Start
- 3AVITAL 5303L Security/Remote Start System
- 4Avital 4103LX Remote Start System
- 5Universal Immobilizer Bypass for Remote Start
- 6Avital 7143L 4 Button Replacement Remote Transmitter
- 7Avital 4113LX Remote Start
- 8Crimestopper RS4-G5 Cool
- 9Performance Tool W80586 Heavy Duty Remote Starter
- 10INNOVA 3630 Remote Starter Switch
1
Factory OEM Remote Activated Plug and Play Remote Start
This Remote kit comes preloaded and prewired for instant use.
It is compatible with select models from Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep manufactured in 2007-2015.
The unit is simple to install and a genuine Lessco product.
The product uses a factory key fob.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to use and install
Cons
- A delay before the car starts
Jake's TakeThis Factory Oem remote is compatible with a wide range of cars.
It won’t take you a lot to install, and after you get used to the dealy, it will work like a dream.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
Avital 5305L 2-Way LCD Remote Start
This Avital remote has a 2-way LCD screen.
It is backlit and features various sound and vibration modes for convenient use.
The units are easy to use because of four simple buttons, command confirmation and event notification.
The remote is easily programmable for lock and outlook options on different car models.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easy to use
- Affordable price
Cons
- The auto-lock after 20 seconds may be annoying and may lock you out of the car
Jake's TakeThe simple controls and the affordable price might be one of the reasons to try this remote.
Just pay attention not to leave your keys in the ignition for longer than 20 seconds, because it will lock the car.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
AVITAL 5303L Security/Remote Start System
This Security/Remote Start System by AVITAL model 5303L has one LCD screen and a four-button control panel.
The unit is easy to use and features both active and passive arming.
Because of the multi-level security arming, you can pick which sensors will be active and which will be avoided.
The panic mode is convenient with the flash of parking lights.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Multi-level security passive and active security arming
- Fail-safe starter kit
Cons
- Complex installation
Jake's TakeIf you are not good with setups, it might be a good idea to have this remote professionally installed.
Other than that, it is easy to use.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
Avital 4103LX Remote Start System
This Avital 4103LX device needs a bypass module for proper installation.
The kit includes two remotes with a four-button control panel.
It comes with the Valet mode that allows your car to stay running even after the key isn’t in it.
The configuration is somewhat simple.
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Pros
- Two remotes included
- Simple installation
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Doesn’t come with the manual guide for setup
Jake's TakeEven though this one somehow doesn’t come with the how-to-guide, you can always find it online.
It is a simple and effortless remote starter with keyless entry.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
Universal Immobilizer Bypass for Remote Start
This universal remote from Directed Electronics is compatible with a variety of alarm systems.
The setup is rather simple, with the two-wires system.
This unit from Directed Electronics has durable construction and is made of metal and plastic parts.
The design is a key-in-the box, and you will need a spare key for it to work.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Straightforward installation
- Easy to use
Cons
- You will have to have a spare key
Jake's TakeThis standard and universal remote is an excellent choice for those who want a simple remote starter.
It is a long-lasting product that can overlive your car.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
Avital 7143L 4 Button Replacement Remote Transmitter
This Avital replacement Remote Transmitter comes at an affordable price.
It has a manageable control panel with four buttons for lock, unlock, trunk lock and an alarm.
The transmitter is compatible with Avital 3300, 5103 & 5303 remote systems.
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Pros
- Simple control panel
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Harder buttons
Jake's TakeWhen you get used to using this remote, the harder buttons won’t be an issue for you.
The replacement remote is compatible with three other remotes, so it is always useful to have it around.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
Avital 4113LX Remote Start
This Avital remote model 4113LX comes with two one-button remotes.
The remotes use 12V batteries and are lightweight.
It has panic mode enabled.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Small and compact
- Easy to use
Cons
- Complex installation for many people
Jake's TakeIf you follow the installation manual of this remote carefully, you might be able to do it by yourself.
The installation is complicated, but the unit works effortlessly.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Crimestopper RS4-G5 Cool
This device from Crime Stopper has two transmitters with a 2000 feet range.
It is a one-way remote system that has keyless entry enabled.
The brushed metal makes it durable and elegant looking.
The Crime Stopper remote has a 2-Way data port for simple data module hook-up.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Durable and resistant
- Wide transmitter range
Cons
- Complex setup with manual cars
Jake's TakeIf you like your car to wait for you warmed up, this one is for you.
With the 2000 feet range, this remote will become your most loveable gadget during the winter.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
Performance Tool W80586 Heavy Duty Remote Starter
This Performance Tool unit is made of heavy-duty lead and allows you to start or crank your car from either side.
The 12-gauge wire leads are oil and grease-resistant.
Because of the red light, you can easily know when the starter switch is connected to a hot circuit.
On the plus side, a push-button switch is straightforward and contributes to the durability option.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Long wires
- Durable and high-quality product
Cons
- Some people may find it hard to install
Jake's TakeA tool like this Heavy Duty Remote Starter is helpful to have around.
You will have no trouble using it, but with the setup, you might need someone with more engineering knowledge.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
INNOVA 3630 Remote Starter Switch
This Innova Remote Starter switch features an ergonomically designed grip.
Furthermore, it is made of durable, shock-resistant ABS plastic, and included heavy-duty 6-foot oil and grease resistant leads.
It is compatible with the majority of vehicles, both computer-controlled and standard cars.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- High compatibility with cars
- Convenient size
Cons
- The wires can get hot
Jake's TakeThe cords are thin, but very durable and can withstand high temperatures.
The Innova Remote Starter features good quality for the money and is worth considering.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Remote Car Starters Buying Guide
Remote car starters are convenient and useful, especially during the winter.
Imagine getting up in the morning, and getting in the heated car without the need to scrape windows frost or wait for the engine to warm up.
It is a simple way that can make your life a bit easier, so why not take advantage of technology development?
The remote car starters are useful during the summer as well.
If you have parked on the sunny parking spot, entering a car after a few hours can be equal to entering a sauna.
With the remote starters, yous car wait for you chilled and ready for use.
Are Remote Car Starters Safe?
If you are worrying that someone will steal your car if he sees the running car unattended, you should know that remote starters are 100% safe.
It starts without the key, but if you want to drive it, you must place the key into the ignition.
For cars that can operate on the keyless principle, you should press the starting knob.
Additionally, if the car started remotely, and you depress the brake without the key or without pushing the button, the car will stop working that second.
So, remote car starters are very safe to use.
Remote Starters Benefits
Let’s talk a bit about the benefits of having a remote car starter.
Those include benefits for your engine, safety measurements, comfort, and increased car value.
Remote Starter and Engine
Everyone is aware of the fact that warming up your car before a ride is beneficial in the winter months.
However, if you are in a hurry, you might skip on this step and start riding immediately.
If the car gets warmed up, the oils in the motor are warmer, so they provide better lubrication and better motor performance with lower noise.
People who use remote starters can always have their cars warmed up before they even sit for the wheel.
Improved Safety
As we explained before, remote starters are anti-theft devices in a sense that allows only you to start the engine remotely.
On the other hand, if you use the remote starter in winter, you don’t have to worry about frosted windows and low visibility.
The car can be ready for you to start riding it the second you get in.
Comfort
The warmed-up car and sets during the winter and chilled interior in the summer are something all people will enjoy.
Increased Value of the Car
If you are planning to sell the car in the future, if you install the remote car starter, it automatically raises the value of your car.
Therefore, you can sell it for more money, even if it is an older car model.
Consider investing money in a suitable remote starter to get the better deal.
Essential Remote Car Starter Factors
As we covered the initial things to know before, getting a car starter, we can move on to fundamental factors that affect your choice.
Compatibility with Your Car
Compatibility is an essential factor that determines your choice.
Double-check your car requirement and the remote starter model.
Also, read the warranties.
Sometimes, installing an additional unit into the car can void the warranty, if installing a remote system can damage the vehicle ignition.
Therefore, always buy remote starters from authorized dealers, to prevent any damage and secure the warranty.
Transmitter Range
The transmitter range is significant for practical reasons.
The strength of the signal determines the transmitter range, but some factors contribute to it.
For example, you may find the units with very high signal strength, but the actual transmitter range will depend on the building, terrain or other barriers between you and your car.
Therefore, you will start your car from your home, your office, restaurant or any other places, so the range is going to be a bit lower than stated in the product specification.
Logically, the stronger the signal, the better the device is.
Try to calculate your approximate distance from the office and home and parking, as that would be the most common route.
Then, try to find the remote starter that fits into that range.
Remote Starters Additional Features
Other than the basic purpose of starting the engine remotely, starters come with a variety of other features.
Hood Safety Switch
For safety reasons, it is essential to have cut off switch installed under the hood.
The principal purpose of it is to prevent the engine from working if the hood is up.
2-Way Remotes
The system of 2-way remotes is practical because you use the remote to give the car signal to start.
Then after the car has started, you will get a signal that it is warmed up and ready to use.
Rear Defrost
The majority of the car come with the rear defrost system that restarts whenever the engine shuts down.
To ensure that a rear defrosts starts when the engine starts remotely, make sure that you connect the defrost circuit with the remote system during installation.
Car Locator
If you have issues remembering where you have parked, just pressing an auxiliary can lead you to the car.
It will honk, and you will follow the sound.
GPS Locator
GPS locator comes with the newer models.
If you pick the one with the GPS enabled, you can always know where your car is.
It is useful when you borrow your car to your children, just to monitor their route.
Keyless Entry
The remote starters with keyless entry allow you to carry only one key fob.
The remote starters have a better transmitter range, so it removes the need for additional keyless entry fob.
Auxiliaries
As the remote starters can have more features, you will have to have an auxiliary port for every feature you wish to install.
Think about the features you want, and then get the remote starter that will allow you to connect everything you want.
Installment
If you don’t have car technical knowledge, we recommend going to a specialist to install it for you.
In that case, you can pick the starter that meets your needs.
However, if you plan to do it yourself, make sure to look at the instructions video and manual guide, before you buy the unit.
That will, you will see if there are some things you don’t understand and can choose another one with a more uncomplicated installation.
Conclusion
Remote car starters have many benefits, and they are convenient to use year-round.
They can keep your engine working properly, improve safety and get you a better deal when you want to sell the car.
Remote car starters must be an exact match for your car model and have the appropriate transmitter range for your needs.
On the other side, nowadays remote starters come with more features.
Check the features you want and make sure to get the starter with enough auxiliaries for keyless entry, rear defrosts, GPS, or anything else you want.
What's your take on Remote Car Starters? You think they're just a luxury or a must-have item? Don't hesitate to share your comment below with your opinion!
Hi there, great post. I have a quick question. Do you prefer the electric motors or gas motors in your RC cars? I see these electric cars go so fast! I’m just curious because I’m planning to buy my first one. Thanks for your help.