For car owners in areas like Brick and East Brunswick, the idea of starting your vehicle remotely, especially on a cold morning, is incredibly appealing. A common question at Auto Image is whether your existing factory key fob can be used to activate a remote car starter. The good news is, in many cases, the answer is yes. However, while using your OEM key fob for remote start offers simplicity, it’s important to understand the trade-offs. Let’s delve into the advantages and disadvantages of using your factory remote with a remote car starter system.
The Simplicity of Factory Key Fob Control
Integrating a remote car starter with your factory key fob provides a streamlined user experience. The installation process mirrors that of a traditional remote starter, with the primary difference being the addition of a computer interface module and an antenna discreetly placed on your windshield. This module acts as a communication bridge, interacting with your vehicle’s systems to monitor door lock status, security, and relay commands to the remote starter.
The activation is designed to be intuitive: typically, pressing the “lock” button on your factory key fob three times in quick succession triggers the remote start. This “3x Lock Start” feature, as it’s often known, is a convenient solution. If your remote is integrated into your car key, it eliminates the need for carrying an extra remote, keeping your keychain clutter-free.
Understanding the Range Limitations of Factory Key Fobs
While the convenience of using your factory key fob for remote start is undeniable, it’s crucial to consider its limitations, particularly concerning range. Imagine the satisfaction of stepping into a pre-warmed car on a freezing winter day – it’s a game-changer. However, the range of a factory key fob can often be a limiting factor in fully enjoying this benefit. What if your key fob’s range doesn’t extend from your office to the parking lot? What about starting your car from inside a large building like a grocery store or a cinema? The disappointment of reaching your car expecting it to be running, only to find it still ice-cold, can be frustrating. This is where the inherent limitations of factory key fobs become apparent.
Exploring Enhanced Remote Control Options
In contrast to factory key fobs, aftermarket remote starters offer significantly improved range. Even basic aftermarket remotes typically provide a range starting from around 800 feet, extending up to a mile for higher-end models. Furthermore, many aftermarket remotes offer valuable feedback, confirming that your start command has been successfully received and executed by your vehicle. This two-way communication provides peace of mind, eliminating the guesswork associated with factory key fob systems.
For the ultimate in remote start control and vehicle management, consider exploring telematics systems like Viper SmartStart. These advanced systems allow you to control your remote starter, lock and unlock doors, and even open the trunk using a smartphone app, whether you use an iPhone or Android device. Premium service plans can also include GPS vehicle tracking and customizable alerts based on location and speed. Many customers opt to combine a SmartStart system with their factory key fob setup, effectively layering control options for maximum flexibility and convenience.
Finding the Right Remote Start Solution for You
If you’re considering a remote starter and are weighing the pros and cons of using your factory key fob, we encourage you to visit Auto Image. Our expert team can demonstrate how factory key fob integration works and help you assess if it meets your needs. If extended range or advanced features are important to you, we can showcase the benefits of Viper remote starter systems and other aftermarket options. Don’t hesitate to reach out through our contact page with any questions you may have. We’re here to help you find the perfect remote start solution to enhance your driving experience.
