Remote start systems are a finicky subject for many people. If installed incorrectly, you are in for a world of hurt. Including cars starting by themselves, cars unlocking and locking randomly, or just downright not even turning on at all.
There is still a big market for these systems, though. Mostly for older vehicles that don’t have any sort of security or need to have the engine warmed up before driving.
So, let’s get to it and see if we can find the ideal remote start system for you and your vehicle…
Contents
- 1 Top 10 Best Remote Start System To Buy In 2022 Reviews
- 1.1 1 Avital 4105L 1-Way Remote Start System
- 1.2 2 Viper 5706V LC 3 2-Way Car Security
- 1.3 3 Crimestopper Cool Start 2-Way Remote Start System
- 1.4 4 Viper 1 Way Remote System
- 1.5 5 Compustar Pro T11
- 1.6 6 Compustar CS4900-S
- 1.7 7 Compustar CS800-S
- 1.8 8 Python 5706P Responder LC3
- 1.9 9 EASYGUARD EC002
- 1.10 10 Python 4806P 2-Way Remote System
- 2 Best Remote Start System Buyer’s Guide
- 3 Before We Announce Our Top Pick
- 4 Final Thoughts on The Best Remote Start System Roundup
Top 10 Best Remote Start System To Buy In 2022 Reviews
1
Avital 4105L 1-Way Remote Start System
The Avital 4105L is a top contender for the best remote start system with a bunch of high-tech features that really sets it apart from other models.
The remote’s range is superb due to the Superheterodyne receiver. You’ll never get caught looking like a fool pointing the remote in all different directions and poses trying to unlock the car.
You get two remotes that feature a lock, unlock, remote start, and trunk release buttons. We found the buttons to be well fitted, not loose. They feel nice to press and provide good tactile feedback.
There is also added additional outputs for a horn and anti-grind delay. The anti-grind feature is included to help prevent your starter from turning when the car is already running.
The system also has dual sensors that detect an impact. If your car is bumped when parked, the car will start honking. Great to catch people who hit and run.
The virtual tach converter makes installation much easier, especially if you plan on doing it yourself. Overall, we found the Avital 4105L remote system to be excellent. It provides a lot of security features for ease of mind at a great price.
Pros
- Virtual tach converter for easy installation.
- Optional anti-grind delay and horn outputs.
- Syperhet receiver with great range.
- Budget-friendly.
Cons
- Installation instructions not included.
- The starting sequence cannot be re-programmed.
2
Viper 5706V LC 3 2-Way Car Security
Viper has been in the car alarm market for many years. They make premium, feature-rich products with security as the main focus.
The Viper 5706V is a 2-way car alarm and remote start system with a plethora of extra features.
First off, the range of this system is up to 1 mile! We can’t really ever see a use for this, but if you are ever caught in a situation where it would be handy, it’s great to have.
The remote has two sides filled to the brim with features. The one side has the buttons you press, like a standard remote. It has a lock, unlock, remote start, and aux button.
The large LCD screen on the back can display relevant information, and the remote even vibrates. Forgot to lock your car? Don’t worry; the system will vibrate or play a tone to remind you. Did someone bump into your vehicle? This remote will vibrate and notify you that the shock sensors have been activated.
Viper is mostly known for its car security systems, and you’ll find many options here for optimum car security. A great feature is the siren and the active notifications on the remote’s display. If the car is being tampered with, you will be notified by a tone and vibration on the remote. The siren will also start in the car to alert nearby people.
If you don’t want to disturb the people around you, the siren can be turned off, and your remote will be the only means of notification.
The instructions can be challenging to understand, and a DIY install isn’t recommended. It’s best to find a professional to install this product. If you can find the product being sold at a shop, even better.
Pros
- Great range.
- SmartStart compatible.
- Great security options.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Installation isn’t easy.
3
Crimestopper Cool Start 2-Way Remote Start System
The Crimestopper Cool Start, as its name implies, is a combined car security and remote start system.
With an up to 3000-foot signal, about half a mile, you won’t have any trouble communicating with the system, even if your view is blocked.
The system uses a 2-way FM/FM remote for communicating with the remote and served us well. We had no issues locking, unlocking, or remotely starting the car from a quarter-mile.
The brushed aluminum and titanium finish feels nice in hand and looks nice too. The steel does make it durable, and it can withstand a significant drop without any issues.
The LCD screen provides a lot of information for the user, one of which is an out of range indicator. There are also real-time notifications for locking, unlocking, and popping open the trunk. This is essential information, especially if you’re not the one opening the door!
There is a function for remotely starting your car at a set time/countdown. It’s great for older cars and pickups that need some heating up before driving. It’s also handy if you are in a hurry and can’t spare the extra 15 seconds it takes to start a car.
It will work in most cars and pickups. It’s compatible with manual transmission cars and pickups, OEM remotes, and all diesel engines. The remote charges with USB and can be turned on and off to save battery when not in use. It’s a little extra feature that makes a massive difference when used.
Installation is not easy, same as the Viper; we recommend you find a professional to install the system for you.
Pros
- Good range.
- OEM transmitter compatible.
- LCD screen.
Cons
- Installation isn’t easy.
4
Viper 1 Way Remote System
This is Viper’s cheaper entry-level remote system aimed at beginner DIY enthusiasts or people on a tighter budget. There are better systems, but they come without the Viper branding.
It works on fuel injected, diesel, and hybrid cars, as long as they are automatic.
You’ll get a pair of 4-button remotes that work up to a quarter-mile. The remote can be used to lock and unlock your car. It can even arm and disarm most factory security systems in cars. There are two auxiliary outputs that can be mapped to different functions such as a horn or for popping the trunk.
The biggest flaw here is that there is no actual security system. Higher priced systems come with security features like collision sensor notifications or sirens. There are no add-ons like that found here, since this is a very basic remote system.
There is a panic mode, but it will need to be hooked up to a horn, or the factory-installed horn. To make up for this lack of security, Viper added a shutdown feature. It’s essentially a cut-off system. If someone tries to steal the car, the gas will be cut off, and the car won’t be able to start at all.
It’s a great, affordable solution if you are looking for a very straightforward remote start system. As with the other Viper system, it’s not an easy installation, and we recommend getting a professional to install it for you.
Pros
- Price.
- SmartStart compatible.
- Compatibility.
Cons
- Installation is not easy.
5
Compustar Pro T11
Compustar has a wide variety of remote systems and probably has one that will suit every buyer.
The Pro T11 is one of Compustar’s top models and comes with a slew of great features that make the price worth it.
That’s nuts! It uses Digital Spread Spectrum Technology to achieve this fantastic feat. This means if you feel like you forgot to lock your car while sitting at the restaurant with the family, there is no need to get up and go check. You can safely lock the car whilst enjoying your dinner.
The LCD screen on the remote will always show you current information. If the car is locked, you will see a lock and vice versa. The same goes for a remote engine start. Once the engine is up and running, you will see a large engine on the screen.
If you’ve opted to install the security system with the remote start system, you will receive security notifications as well. You will even be notified of which zone of the car was triggered. The remote has a built-in speaker and vibrates as well.
Compustar has built-in a lithium battery that puts all the other 2-way LCD remotes to shame. Its battery can last several months on a single charge. Once it’s dead, you can easily charge it up with the micro-USB port.
The Pro T11 is compatible with manual transmissions, push-to-start ignition systems, diesel engines, and hybrid drivetrains. But, the complex nature of the installation means that it is better to get a professional to install this system for you.
Pros
- Great range.
- Easy to use.
- Battery lasts very long.
Cons
- Installation is not easy.
6
Compustar CS4900-S
The CS4900-S is Compustar’s newer mid-range system that drops some of the premium features found in the Pro T11.
For starters, you won’t find an LCD display on the key fob. This might worry some buyers because, without the LCD screen, you won’t be sure if the command you pressed went through.
Compustar added LED notifications next to each of the four buttons. Unfortunately, the LED is only found on the 2-way remote. In other words, the backup remote is only a 1-way remote and does not have the same LED notifications.
To eliminate this cause of concern, you can connect your phone to the remote start system, using Compustar’s app. On the app, you can remotely control all the smart features and verify if the command has been received. Using the app is easy, and the icons will clearly show the status of the car. To add this function, you will need to buy Compustar’s drone module.
The system can be used up to 3000-feet. Testing at a quarter-mile, we encountered no problems locking and unlocking the vehicle.
Remote starting is as simple as pushing the key button on the remote, or by remote starting it from your phone. There is no countdown timer option on this system, though.
The system supports all automatic vehicles and is diesel-engine safe as well. Installation isn’t simple, and we advise getting a professional to install. For newer model cars, you would also need to install an ignition key bypass.
Pros
- Good range.
- Compatibility.
- The mobile app is convenient.
Cons
- Complex installation.
- No LCD screen on the key fob.
7
Compustar CS800-S
The CS800-S is Compustar’s budget option. It’s great for people on a tight budget, looking for a simple remote start system for their vehicle.
Both remotes included are only 1-way remote systems. 1-Way remote systems do not confirm if the vehicle has been locked or not. The same goes for remote starting.
Adding Compustar’s drone module will get you mobile phone connectivity. So, you can connect and confirm if your car is running/locked or not from your mobile phone.
As the price range drops, so does the range of the system, unfortunately. The CS800-S has a 1000-foot range before it loses connectivity with the car. Not a problem if you lock or start your vehicle from inside the house, but if you’re out shopping, you might not be able to use the remote.
Installation is not for beginners, and we recommend getting a professional to install it. For newer vehicles, you will also need an ignition bypass module installed.
The system is compatible with most vehicles, even diesel engines, which is rare. It’s one of the cheaper offerings on this list, and it has quite a few flaws, but also a lot of upsides.
Pros
- Compatibility.
- Ease of use.
- Additional mobile module.
- Price.
Cons
- 1-Way communicating remotes.
- Signal range isn’t great.
8
Python 5706P Responder LC3
The Python LC3 is a more expensive 2-way remote start system packed to the brim with cool features.
This best remote start system comes with a great 1-mile connection range. Not quite as good as the Compustar’s Pro T11’s 3-mile range, but still much better than cheaper options.
The kit includes one LCD 2-way remote and a backup 1-way remote with five buttons. It’s nice to have a backup, but at this premium price, it is disappointing that the back up is only a 1-way remote.
You could opt to buy a SmartStart module as well since the Python LC3 is compatible. This will allow you to control the start system with your smartphone. Great if you lost your remote, or are too lazy to look for it.
Some of the great extra features included here are Doubleguard shock sensors that alert you when someone or something bumped your car. There’s also the Revenger siren, D2D ports, and a whopping four extra auxiliary ports.
The buttons on the remote left us wanting a bit, especially when putting them into a pocket that’s a little tight, like jeans. The buttons had a tendency to be too sensitive and would activate when pushing the keys into our pocket.
It’s easy to spot when it happens, though, due to the vibration and ringtone that plays when you turn a function on or off.
Another great feature is the temperature gauge on the LCD screen. If you’re like us, hopping into an ice-cold car after shopping for hours during the summer, is a feeling of bliss. Remotely starting the car and being able to see the temperature, puts your mind at ease. The same can be said for winters when you’d like a cozy warm interior before you even get in.
Pros
- Tons of extra features.
- LCD display.
- Full alarm system with siren.
Cons
- Price.
- Backup remote is a 1-way remote.
9
EASYGUARD EC002
The Easyguard EC002 is the “be all” of remote systems.
Just unpacking the system out of the box seems daunting with a push start button, keypad, the actual module, and all the cables.
The first great feature that really made the difference for us was the PKE-passive keyless entry. It mainly takes away the need for any remote, other than the fact that you still need it on you.
But, if your hands are full and you can’t get out the keys, no worries! The keyless entry system will unlock the doors when the key fob is within 6-feet of the car.
Also included is a press to start button that can be installed for keyless starting and a keypad for an extra layer of security. If that’s not for you, you can just leave it out of the system.
Now, for such a futuristic-looking system, the key fob itself is a bit of a disappointment. It comes with only three buttons and no LCD or LED notifications whatsoever.
This is a bit of a letdown, not really for locking and unlocking the car, since that is done automatically. The thing is, without the notifications, you won’t be sure if the car is running when you remotely start the car. It seems to be more of an afterthought in this system.
The priority of the Easyguard EC002 is safety. If you want a remote start system, with a significant focus on safety, we can highly recommend getting this system.
Pros
- Great security settings.
- Keypad and push start button are great extras.
Cons
- No LCD/LED screen.
10
Python 4806P 2-Way Remote System
The Python 4806P is a great midrange automatic car starter. It’s quite basic, and the mid-range price means that a lot of features get left on the cutting block.
On the 2-way remote, you get four buttons, each with an LED light to notify you. No LCD means no extra information like car temperature, but the LED lights are more than good enough considering the price.
The backup remote does not have any LED lights and is only a 1-way remote. The system has a 1-mile connectivity range but is influenced by the surroundings. If you’re parked in the city with lots of buildings around you, you won’t come even close to the 1-mile range.
The system is compatible with SmartStart, which allows connectivity with a smartphone. This means you can see extra information on there and use security functions like panic mode.
The Python has a shock sensor that provides an audio alert and vibration if an object hits your car. It’s a handy feature if you are security conscious, but can be problematic if your vehicle gets bumped by surrounding objects during a storm outside.
Customizing does increase the price. For example, you can add seat heating or a rear window defroster. Great add-ons, but costly if you are working within a budget.
Pros
- Audible alerts.
- Good connection range.
- SmartStart compatible.
Cons
- No LCD.
- Difficult installation.
Best Remote Start System Buyer’s Guide
Picking up the perfect remote start system is not an easy job. With so many different brands, models, and such a wide price range, it can be tough to decide what to invest in.
Remote start systems need a reasonable range. That’s worth noting, and the fact that a 2-way system is much better than a 1-way system. 2-Way systems just mean that the car sends information back to the remote, verifying that the command has indeed been successful. These two features are the most important things for a best remote start system.
Do you want smartphone connectivity? Is an LCD screen important? Do you want to be able to read the temperature of the car?
Having an LCD screen usually leads to you also receiving way more information. Most LCD systems will provide you with the car’s temperature, current lock state, and act as a security monitor. If these features seem like necessities to you, then it’s best to invest in a system with an LCD screen on the key fob.
Smartphone connectivity can also be a determining factor. Being able to connect your car to your phone is a really neat feature and opens up the door to a lot of extra features. Firstly, you’ll be able to remote start your car, no matter where or how far away from it you are. It also means if you don’t have an LCD screen key fob, you can monitor your car’s current status on your mobile device.
That’s why we believe it might be a good idea to save some cash and buy a system without the LCD display and just add a smartphone connection module.
The last thing to look for is compatibility. Diesel engines usually require a whole different installation process, and that is if they are supported. A lot of brands do not support diesel engines, unfortunately, but there were two on our list that did.
Before We Announce Our Top Pick
If you enjoyed this review, you might be interested in reading others, such as the Best Rear View Mirror Glues, the Best Buffing Pads, the Best Bug Tar Removers, and the Best Car Vacuum Cleaners currently available.
If you do your own maintenance, head to our reviews of the Best Mechanic Gloves, the Best Carburetor Cleaners, and the Best Automotive Paint Guns on the market.
Then, for the latest road-worthy gadgets, check out our reviews of the Best Car Compasses, and the Best Bluetooth Headsets for Drivers you can buy.
Ok, back to remote start systems…
Final Thoughts on The Best Remote Start System Roundup
The value champion here is definitely the… Avital 4105L remote start system.
It is only a 1-way start system that comes with its cons but is so inexpensive it’s hard to ignore.
The ideal remote start system is a perfect balancing act between value and features. Therefore, our top pick is the… Crimestopper RS7-G5.
It’s not so much a remote start system; rather, it is a fully-fledged security system with remote start capability. It provides so many great features at almost half the price of the other more premium start systems. It’s also compatible with a lot of vehicles, which makes it an excellent option for most and definitely the first choice for us.
Happy remote starting!