Many modern vehicles come equipped with a fantastic feature that adds convenience to your daily routine: remote start. If you’re wondering, “How Do You Start Your Car With Your Key Fob?”, you might be surprised to learn just how simple it is. For many car owners, the factory key fob they already carry can be used to remotely start their vehicle, offering a seamless and integrated experience. Let’s explore how this works and what you need to know about using your factory key fob for remote start.
Understanding Factory Key Fob Remote Start
Utilizing your factory key fob for remote start is often a straightforward process. The technology integrates with your car’s existing systems, meaning you don’t need to carry an extra remote. The installation of a remote car starter that works with your factory remote is quite similar to installing a traditional system with separate remotes. Often, the main difference in installation is the addition of an antenna, typically placed on the windshield. A specialized computer interface module is connected to your vehicle. This module is designed to communicate with your car’s computer, monitoring door lock status and interacting with the factory security system.
So, how do you actually initiate the remote start? The most common method is called “3x Lock Start,” or “three times lock start.” To start your car, you simply press the lock button on your factory key fob three times in quick succession. This sends a signal to the interface module, which then commands the remote starter to ignite your engine. If your key fob is integrated into your car key, this system offers a very clean and convenient solution, eliminating the need for an extra fob cluttering your keychain.
The Convenience and Limitations of Factory Key Fobs
The appeal of using your factory key fob for remote start is undeniable. It’s convenient, as it uses a remote you already have, and it maintains a clean and uncluttered keychain. However, it’s important to consider the limitations, particularly when it comes to range.
While the “can you use a factory remote to start your car?” question is often answered with a yes, the more pertinent question might be “should you rely solely on your factory remote for remote start?”. The primary drawback of factory key fob remote start systems is their limited range. Imagine the joy of stepping into a pre-warmed car on a freezing winter day. Once you experience this comfort, remote start becomes indispensable. But what if your factory key fob’s range isn’t sufficient to start your car from your office, your workplace, or even inside a large building like a grocery store or movie theater? The frustration of expecting a warm car only to find it still cold is a common issue with factory remotes.
Expanding Your Remote Start Capabilities
If range is a concern, aftermarket remote starters offer significant improvements. Even basic aftermarket remotes typically provide a range starting from 800 feet, extending up to a mile for more advanced options. Furthermore, many aftermarket remotes offer two-way communication, providing feedback to confirm that your start command has been received and executed by the vehicle. This confirmation is a valuable feature that factory key fobs usually lack.
For the ultimate in remote start control and features, consider telematics systems like Viper SmartStart. These systems allow you to control your remote starter from virtually anywhere using a smartphone app. You can start your car, lock and unlock doors, and even pop the trunk using your iPhone or Android device. Premium service plans can also include GPS vehicle tracking and alerts based on location or speed. Combining a system like Viper SmartStart with your factory key fob can provide the best of both worlds: convenient short-range control with your factory fob and extended range and advanced features via your smartphone.
If you’re considering a remote starter and are weighing the options of using your factory key fob versus aftermarket solutions, it’s best to consult with experts. Visit a remote starter specialist to discuss your needs and see demonstrations of different systems. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of each option will help you make the best choice for your vehicle and lifestyle.
