Many car owners are curious about the possibility of using their factory key fob to remotely start their vehicles. At keyfobprog.com, we often encounter questions from clients in Brick and East Brunswick regarding remote start systems integrated with their original equipment manufacturer (OEM) key fobs. The good news is, in numerous vehicles, utilizing your factory remote for remote start is indeed feasible. However, it’s important to understand the capabilities and limitations of these systems. Let’s delve into the advantages and disadvantages of using your OEM remote system in conjunction with a remote car starter.
The Simplicity of Factory Key Fob Remote Start
Opting for a remote car starter that works with your factory key fob offers a streamlined and user-friendly experience. The installation process closely mirrors that of traditional remote starters with dedicated remotes. A key component is a computer interface module, installed along with an antenna, which is typically placed on the windshield. This module acts as a communication bridge between your car’s systems and the remote starter. It monitors door lock status and integrates seamlessly with your factory security system.
The activation method is usually straightforward: pressing the lock button on your factory key fob three times in quick succession. This “3x Lock Start” or “three-times lock start” feature sends a signal via the interface module to initiate the remote start. For vehicles where the remote is integrated into the key itself, this solution provides a clean and convenient setup, eliminating the need for extra key fobs cluttering your keychain.
Understanding the Range Limitations of Your OEM Key Fob
While the convenience of using your factory key fob for remote start is undeniable, it’s crucial to consider the potential drawbacks, primarily concerning range. Imagine the satisfaction of stepping into a pre-warmed car on a freezing winter day – remote start becomes an indispensable feature once experienced. However, the range of a factory key fob might not always be sufficient for your needs. Think about starting your car from inside your office building, a large shopping mall, or even a restaurant. The frustration of believing your car is warming up, only to find it still ice-cold upon reaching it, is a common issue with limited range.
Expanding Your Remote Start Range with Aftermarket Options
Even basic aftermarket remote starters significantly outperform factory key fobs in terms of range. Entry-level aftermarket remotes can offer a range of up to 800 feet, while higher-end models can extend to a mile or more. Furthermore, many aftermarket remotes provide valuable feedback, confirming that your start command has been successfully received and executed by your vehicle. This two-way communication eliminates the guesswork and ensures you know your car is actually starting.
For the ultimate in remote start control and features, consider telematics systems like Viper SmartStart. These systems allow you to control your remote starter, lock and unlock doors, and even open the trunk using a smartphone app, whether you have an iPhone or Android. Premium subscription plans often include advanced features like GPS vehicle tracking and customizable alerts based on location and speed. Many users choose to combine a SmartStart system with their factory key fob integration, gaining the benefits of both short-range and long-range control options.
Choosing the Best Remote Start System for Your Needs
If you’re considering a remote starter and are weighing the option of using your factory key fob, we encourage you to visit Auto Image. Our expert team can demonstrate firsthand how factory key fob remote start works and help you assess if it meets your range requirements. If you find that the factory remote’s range is insufficient for your lifestyle, we can present you with a range of Viper remote starter systems that offer extended range and advanced features. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us through our contact page with any further questions you may have.
