9 Best Remote Car Starter Consumer Ratings & Reports 2023

A remote car starter system is more than a necessity for every car owner, as it makes weather bearable.

Nothing is more inconvenient than entering into a freezing car in the winter or sweating yourself on a heated seat during winter.

Press the start button from your home or office and let your car interior become comfortable for you.

Today, the remote car starter unit is multi-functional. You can get a 1 way or 2-way remote car starter depending on your personal choice. You will get confused after exploring countless remote car starters.

To get out of this confusion, we are sharing a list of the best remote car starters by consumer ratings and reports.

Related: Best Car Covers Consumer Ratings & Reports

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Here are the top-rated remote car starters we picked out that you would be interested in depending on your budget…

Best Remote Car Starter Consumer Ratings & Reports

We have compiled a list of the 9 best remote car starters based on consumer ratings and reports 2023.

1. Viper 2-Way Vehicle Security with Remote Start System

Features at a glance
  • Keyless Entry
  • 3000′ Max Range
  • 2-Way LCD Confirmation
  • 2-Way Alarm Alert

People who need a combination of remote car starter and security system would surely take good interest in the top-rated Viper 2-way unit.

Once you install this system in your vehicle, it will protect your vehicle from theft and bring the ultimate convenience of remote start simultaneously

. The impact sensors of systems are installed on the trunk, hood, and door to ensure that your vehicle gets all-around protection from intruders.

It’s a known fact a 1-way system is never good enough as you get no confirmation whether the car has started or not.

Why guessing when you can be 100 percent certain with an audio-visual confirmation? With this two-way unit, you can get ready confirmation of what’s happening with your car on the LCD.

In case of an intrusion, you will get a quick audio/alarm alert. As the system is engineered with a 105dB plus siren, you can easily find your parked car in the busy streets and crowd.

In case your 2-way remote stops working, no worries, there is a 1-way backup remote to make your life easier.

According to the manufacturer, you can remotely start your car within 3000 range, but it will work great only within 1500 feet range in reality. A

s the unit is designed with a dual-stage shock sensor, you can enjoy peace of mind that the system will sense an intrusion and send you an alert right away.

What We Like!

  • Diesel-Engine Safe
  • Dual-Stage Shock/Impact Sensor
  • Brings 105dB+ Alarm Siren
  • Includes Backup 1-Way Remote
  • 1-Year Remote Warranty

Things to Consider!

  • For adding a power lock feature, you need to buy an additional harness

2. Crimestopper Cool Start 2-Way Remote Start System

Features at a glance
  • The solid build of 2-way Transmitter
  • 1-way transmitter
  • LCD pager
  • 3000 feet range

No one likes to sweat in a heated leather seat in summer; the whole experience is pretty overwhelming.

hereby, this 2-way remote car starter is something that will add a great level of comfort to your life. It would let you start your car when you plan to leave home or the office.

When you reach the car, its engine will be working, and the cool car interior will welcome you.

The unit is fully compatible with manual transmission and diesel engines, so it’s a system working with all vehicles. You will get a 2-way and one-way rapid response transmitter.

For dealing with both Fortin and ADS data modules, 2-way twin data ports are integrated into this device.

Its two-way transmitter has got attractive brushed aluminum and titanium finish. You can charge its LCD pager either with a USB or wall charger. There is a side-kick non-paging remote for quick use.

On the LCD pager, you will Out-of-range notification and also remote start run time. You can use this system to get real-time confirmation of lock, unlock and trunk pop.

In case you never installed this system before, it’s better to give up on the idea of self-install. Even when you have a complete wire diagram of your vehicle, installation of this unit won’t be easier.

However, when you have a pretty good idea of handling the installation of a 2-way remote start system, then the whole installation will be pretty quick.

Manual explains it all, but excellent customer service is there to offer you a helping hand even when some questions knock on your mind.

As far as functioning is concerned, you can quickly start a car from 1000 range, although the brand claims that this system would work efficiently in 3000 feet range. When you start going out of range, it will give an instant alert.

What We Like!

  • Out-of-range notifications
  • Compatible with all kinds of vehicles
  • Number of Auxiliary ports
  • Twin data ports
  • Tachometer sensing
  • horn honk

Things to Consider!

  • the turbo-timer mode is complex

3. Viper 4105V 1-Way Remote Start System

Features at a glance
  • Clone Safe coding for enhanced security
  • 1500 feet range
  • 1-way Remote
  • Keyless entry system

Do you want to save your money but still want to start your car remotely? Indeed, this well-built 1-way unit is something that can meet your demand quickly.

he reason for preferring this unit over others in the market is the brand name- VIPER. If you are into electronics, you already know that this brand offers top-quality products.

Its remote is easy to use and only contains 4-buttons, so there is no rocket-science you have to deal with. It brings two auxiliary ports. In case you want to add some more functions to your system, it will be pretty straightforward.

As far as installation is concerned, it would be best to rely on a professional only unless you know how to deal with every installation step.

Inside the package, you will find one-page manual instructions, which are pretty straightforward and won’t help you with the installation. You can give power only to an auxiliary function like a dashcam from this remote.

When there are concrete walls, you can expect that its transmitter signals will work great in 1200 feet range; the manufacturer claims that it works in 1500 feet range. You can use the existing keyless entry system of your vehicle as it brings one with it.

Once you connect the device with the horn circuit, you can make the most panic mode.

Finding your car will be more comfortable through the car finder option that flashes light five times so you can identify your vehicle quickly.

As the unit is clone-safe code-hopping, thereby you can enjoy utmost security.

What We Like!

  • Easy to use
  • Two Auxiliary channels
  • Car Finder
  • Panic Mode

Things to Consider!

  • The instructional manual is incomplete

4. Avital Remote Start System with Two 4-Button Remote

Features at a glance
  • Two remote transmitters
  • Panic mode
  • Car Finder option
  • Trunk release capacity

It’s always hard to go outside in the winter and wait for your car’s interior to warm-up.

Indeed, a remote car starter kit is an absolute necessity in winter. This one from Avital is well-designed and offers the best value for the money.

If you know about the primary installation mechanism, it won’t require more than four hours to wire up the whole system, bringing two 2-way remotes with four easy to use buttons.

Before you buy this system, you must know that you need to purchase an additional bypass module to make it work.  Its panic alarm mode is optional.

In case you want to configure it, you better use bit writer programs. You can quickly flash your parking lights to get an idea of where you parked your vehicle the last time through it.

Mainly people have concerns that if they keep their vehicle runnings, a frequency stealer will get away with their prized possessions. Thanks to the advanced FOB remote, you won’t have to experience any such scenario.

Anyone who wants to enter your car must have a wireless transmitter as FOB emits a radio frequency that is digitally encoded.

What We Like!

  • Remote control integration for OEM alarm
  • Valet mode
  • Bitwriter programmable for easy configuration
  • Remote start feature

Things to Consider!

  • There is no built-in anti-grind relay

5. EASYGUARD Smart Key RFID PKE Car Alarm System

Features at a glance
  • Multifunctional remote starter
  • Valent and panic mode
  • Keyless GO
  • PKE-passive keyless entry

In case a person is interested in a multifunctional remote car starter, it’s better that he thinks of getting one from Easyguard. It completes the primary function of a remote car starting quickly.

However, once correctly installed, it will let you enjoy keyless GO; there is no need to use the key in the ignition. Just press start to ride your car around.

Its automatic car door lock and unlocks option is worth spending money on. When you are only 3-6 feet away from the car, the car door unlocks and welcomes you.

On the flip side, when you start moving away from the vehicle, like distance is 6 to 9 feet, it locks the door to ensure your car safety.

There is a need to add your secret password from the keypad for locking and unlocking your car door.

With its anti-hijacking function and panic mode, this system keeps your car protected from unauthorized access.

You can release the tank remotely when you have shopping bags in your hand. You can mute the alarm or make it audible as per your needs.

Other great features to come alongside this system are manual lock/unlock, emergency override, center door locking automation, valet mode, and programming method.

What We Like!

  • Lots of safety features
  • Touch password door entry
  • Automatic window closing
  • Password revise & reset

Things to Consider!

  • Inaccurate Manual instructions

6. Compustar 1-way Remote Start and Keyless Entry System

Features at a glance
  • 1-way remote
  • Diesel-safe system
  • Keyless Entry
  • Trunk release feature

In this digital age, everyone desires to control his vehicle start and lock mechanism through his smartphone. Thanks to Compustar 1-way remote, now you can start your car engine remotely from 1000 feet distance.

This model is compatible with DroneMobile technology; you would pair this system for mobile compatibility.

In simple words, you can control your vehicle through your smartphone, besides you can enjoy GPS tracking. Finding where your car is right from your smart device is pretty simple.

This remote car starter also brings a keyless entry system to add a bit of comfort to your life.

Now you can easily unlock and lock your car, no matter how far you are from it. You must press the start button for 2.5 seconds to send a command to your vehicle where this system will start the engine.

You can install it safely on a diesel-powered vehicle. Its trunk release function allows you to pop up a truck without using your hands.

Again you need to press the trunk button for 2.5 seconds to complete this operation.

If you have an old vehicle, this starter kit will work great with it, and there is a need for a bypass module for perfect installation.

What We Like!

  • Super long-range, 1000-ft
  • GPS Tracking is possible
  • Smartphone control
  • 1-year warranty

Things to Consider!

  • It won’t work with a new vehicle having a push/start button

7. Prestige Two-Way LCD Confirming Remote Start

Features at a glance
  • 1-mile range
  • Automatic Arming/locking
  • Illuminated Entry
  • Multiple Vehicle Control

It is one of the longest range remote car starters available in the market. With 1-mile/5280 feet range, you can start your car as remotely as possible.

No matter how far you are away from your vehicle, you can handle automatic arming and locking features.

This unit allows you to take control of multiple vehicles. It’s easy to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely through its remote keyless entry and avoid intrusion.

The system brings a 2-way LCD transmitter containing five buttons; it will offer you visual confirmation about lock/unlock and remote start features.

There is a 1-way transmitter as well via which you can easily find your car through a flashlight. The system brings a glass-mount antenna with built-LED light for your convenience.

No matter if the temperature is cold or hot, you can start your car at the farthest location as you desire through this remote control.

The unit’s latest redesigned version got a metal chrome finish, so the remote looks good in your hand and offers an upscale feel.

To ensure the car’s safety, this system is engineered with a dual-stage shock sensor. The car’s hood, trunk, and doors are fully shielded. No intruder will find a chance to steal your vehicle.

You can custom program this transmitter as per your requirements. There are  11 NOC Outputs with 19 Control Options, while four auxiliary outputs allow you to enhance this starter kit’s functioning.

What We Like!

  • Multi-Tone Mini Siren
  • Starter Interrupt
  • Security system included
  • Flashing Parking Lights
  • 4 – Auxiliary Outputs, 10 Control Options

Things to Consider!

  • It’s tricky to deal with unit programming.

8. Crimestopper Car Alarm with Remote Start

Features at a glance
  • Up To 2,300ft Range
  • Smartphone Interface Port
  • Keyless Entry
  • 2 Sleek 5-button Transmitters
  • Car Alarm System & remote starter

It is a technologically advanced car alarm system with remote start capability.

Crimestopper designed this system with both tachometer (RPM) sensing or tachless (voltage)sensing modes so that you can do a remote start quickly.

Even if you want to stop the engine from running, it can easily use engine stop functionality.

If you have a bit of mechanical understanding and knowledge, you can check its well-written manual for self-installation and save some bucks of professional installation services.

This 1-way remote brings three systems in one such as alarm, remote start, and keyless entry. You will find five simple to use buttons on the transmitter that gets a brushed aluminum trim with a silver button.

As far as security is concerned, the unit brings all the functions you need to maintain the ultimate security of the vehicle.

The remote has a dual-stage shock sensor, starter kill output, a 25 Watts high-powered single-tone siren as the system runs on 433 megahertz high frequency.

You can audio/visual arm/disarm this system whenever you need it. Many programmable features offer the best value for the bucks on this mode.

They include remote panic protection,  active rearm mode, car jack protection, auto-lock and unlock through vehicle ignition, and 1 or 3 seconds door lock pulse.

What We Like!

  • Audio/visual intrusion alert
  • Easy to Install
  • horn-honk output
  • dome light illumination
  • Four remote auxiliary outputs

Things to Consider!

  • Programmable functions stop working after six months

9. Avital 1-Way Remote Start System with 4-Button Remote

Features at a glance
  • Virtual TachTM
  • one and a half-mile range
  • 1-way remote with four buttons
  • Anti-grind output

If you need the best combination of a car alarm system with a remote car starter, one is available from Avital.

This brand brings a 1-way remote that contains four buttons you can lock, unlock, remote start, and trunk release through it.

For adding multiple layers of anti-theft protection, Avital designed this unit with fault-proof starter interrupt. It means if an intruder tries to hotwire your vehicle, he will experience nothing but failure.

Another feature to offer full-proof security is its dual-zone impact sensors. If an intrusion is suspected that it starts reacting either with chirps or sirens.

You can remotely start the engine of your car from one and a half-mile range, thanks to its Superhet receiver (HX). Through its Virtual TachTM, installation becomes easy as tach wire is no longer required.

What We Like!

  • Fault-proof starter interrupt
  • Dual-Zone impact sensor
  • keyless entry, trunk release
  • Directed SmartStart Compatible

Things to Consider!

  • It’s hard to find a professional installer for this system

How to Choose the Best Remote Car Starter

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed while making a selection of the best remote starter for your car.

The market has countless options; without getting an idea of the best factors, it’s challenging to make the right choice. Here is what you need to consider.

Know Your Car’s Requirements

It’s essential to read your car warranty to find out how your car warranty will be voided.

If you install a starter system and it somehow damages the vehicle, you won’t be able to claim the car warranty. It would help if you had a clear idea about car requirements to know what to look at in the warranty manual.

The biggest mistake that a car owner makes is to install a system from an unprofessional. Ensure you buy the system from a well-reputed company and know what system would work well with your car.

If you don’t have a keyless entry system, you can easily find a kit with it.

Transmitter Range

The most crucial factor to consider before buying a system is its range. Never buy a low range system as it will cause ultimate discomfort.

Maybe you park a vehicle in the nearest street, but your remote start should work on the long-range as well. Sometimes, you park the car in the shopping mall parking system, and if your remote car starter is low range, it would not be comfortable from that range.

The unit’s range also explains its signal strength. The stronger signal a unit has, the other range it can work efficiently.

Some brands make misleading claims that the range is more than 500 feet. If there is no obstruction between you and your car, then yes, it is possible to start your vehicle from a 500 feet range; it only happens in an ideal world.

In the real world, there are windows, walls, RF interferences, buildings, etc. They are obstacles that reduce the system’s range and signals.

When you park cars in busy streets and hotels, this range reduces to a great extent. Thereby, try to find a system with accurate range estimates.

When you don’t have an exact idea, you better read reviews to know what customers are talking about its signal strength in a specific range.

Installation

When it comes to installation, you always need to hire a professional installer who knows what he is doing. Some manufacturers clarify that their warranty will work only when you install the device from a professional.

Otherwise, it will void. Although you need to pay some cost for professional installation yet this option also brings peace of mind.

2-Way or 1-way

The price of a 2-way remote starter is always more than one-way. I

n a two-way, you send a signal to your vehicle to begin the car engine, and the receiver sends a signal back to you confirming that the car engine has started and is running.

In one way, you send a signal to the car and don’t receive any confirmation signal. Indeed, a 2-way remote is a luxury accessory you can have.

Number of Auxiliaries

The system is designed with one button for its essential function -starting the vehicle.

However, when you are in a mood to add some more features to this system, this integration will be possible through a corresponding auxiliary port. You need to define first what kind of features you need in a remote start system.

Once you are clear, the next thing is to ensure that the selected unit can handle every feature like opening the truck, emergency call activation, locking/unlocking door, etc.

Several Key Fobs

Generally, a remote starter kit has one key fob. In case you need more than one, buy a kit that is either expandable or brings at-least two remotes.

Engine Kill

You can find a system that lets you turn off the engine remotely.

Two-way LCD key fobs

These days, you can find advanced level key fobs featured with LCD. From your key fob, you can check the interior temperature.

It allows you to get an idea about the temperature in your car before going outside.

Smartphone Interface

You can buy a unit that is fully compatible with your mobile operating system. It’s super convenient to control your vehicle through your smartphone.

You would be able to locate your vehicle via GPS. Even it’s easy to monitor car speed if some of your family members use the car. In case the vehicle’s speed limit increases, you get an instant alert.

RPM Sensor

Another thing to look out for when buying a remote car starter is checking how sensitive your RPM sensor is.

The monitor will keep an eye on your car’s engine RPM, so that it doesn’t damage your vehicle if the engine has some sort of issue.

Another benefit of this sensor is that it will tell the starter system that the car doesn’t have started yet, and so the system will try to restart it again.

This sensor is an excellent facility during cold days when the remote car system sometimes doesn’t work correctly.

Safety Switch

Sometimes, you need to open the hood, and if the system is connected, it may become an issue.

Therefore, you should buy a system that has a cutoff switch installed under the hood. Next time you need to open the hood, you can turn this switch off to avoid injury.

Keyless Entry

Getting a remote starter kit with keyless entry is always beneficial for a car user.

Even when you have manufacturer keyless entry installed, another one with the system will boost its range. Thereby, you can lock and unlock the car from a distant location comfortably.

Security System

You can avoid car theft risks easily by installing a security plus remote start system.

It lets you add an extra layer of protection by creating sensors all around your car. If a burglar tries to break in, you will get an immediate alert, and you can protect your car.

Heated Seats

If you live in a cold area, one of the best utilities is to invest in a remote starter that can offer a heated seat facility.

It will keep your seat warm and comfortable no matter how cold the weather is outside.

Rear window defrost

Dealing with window frost every winter day is a common phenomenon. You don’t have to wait for the car heat to melt this snow away.

Simply invest your money in a system that can easily defrost your rear window. You won’t have to do any sort of scraping from time to time. Super Convenient!

Car Alarm

Sometimes, you park your vehicle in large or crowded parking lots, and finding your vehicle among all is always a big trouble.

You can save yourself from annoying search operations simply by getting a car alarm feature. When you click a button, the car horn will let you discover your car in the crowd.

Warranty

Another most important consideration while buying the best remote car starter is its warranty. Make sure that a system is designed with a lifetime warranty or money-back guarantee.

In case you have some issues or don’t like the system, you can replace or return it. When the warranty is there, you have peace of mind that you can seek replacement and repair if anything goes with a system.

It’s better to check whether this system offers an after-sale service or not. Sometimes, you buy an affordable system, but you fail to connect with its customer service.

Read the best remote car starter reviews to know all about the quality of its customer service.

Final Verdict

The best remote car starter will let you get full control of your car’s start mechanism from the most extended range.

It’s suggested to buy a long-range like more than 1500 range remote so that you can make the most of it in busy streets and crowded parking lots.

For keeping your car warranty intact, you should always get help from a professional installer. This extra cost will save your contract and let you enjoy all features of a highly advanced remote to its fullest.

Once you start using this system, you will regret living all your life without it. So, go and grab one now.

People Also Asked About Remote Car Starter

What are the best remote car starters?

Here are the best remote car starters by consumer ratings & reports 2023:

  1. Viper 2-Way Car Security with Remote Start System
  2. Crimestopper Cool Start 2-Way Remote Start System
  3. Viper 4105V 1-Way Remote Start System
  4. Avital Remote Start System with Two 4-Button Remote
  5. EASYGUARD Smart Key RFID PKE Car Alarm System
  6. Compustar 1-way Remote Start and Keyless Entry System
  7. Prestige Two-Way LCD Confirming Remote Start
  8. Crimestopper Car Alarm with Remote Start
  9. Avital 1-Way Remote Start System with 4-Button Remote

What’s the difference between 1 way and two-way remote start?

The main difference between both systems is that the two-way system confirms that your vehicle has started. You won’t have to go outside to find out if the car is up and running or not.

Does an aftermarket remote start void warranty?

No, you can buy a remote start for your vehicle from any place. The only requirement is to ensure that a professional installs it.

You must know that car dealer install an after water starter system in your vehicle, so it won’t void the warranty if you do the same.

The main problem is when an unprofessional install this starter and somehow damages the car; it’s when your car warranty is affected.

How many times can you remote start your car?

Once you press the button and the engine starts, the starter stays idle for 20 minutes. You can remotely start the engine as many times as you need.

Are car remote car starters worth it?

The most significant advantage with a car starter remote kit is that one can start the car remotely.

In summer, the car interior heats up as your vehicle remains outside at a high temperature. The whole car interior gets colder through the remote start mechanism, and you won’t have to sweat inside the car.

You can avoid sudden cold or muscle spasms during winter by starting your car and turning on its heater. As soon as you reach the car, it offers a cozy and warm environment to soothe your muscles.

How much does it cost to install a remote start system?

The cost of a remote start system depends on three factors; the first thing is the starter’s price. The second cost involves installation service.

And the third cost factor is when you need to buy a bypass module via which this system becomes compatible with your car. Overall, the cost range is between $200 to $500.

Can a remote start drain the battery?

Yes, a remote car starter system relies on your battery, even when the engine is off. It’s because it has to stay active to receive a command from your remote fob. Thereby, it gets power from the battery.

Can Remote Starter Protect Your Car?

Yes, if you buy a system integrated with anti-theft and security systems, it becomes impossible for the intruders to get away with your car. These start to ensure that the car does properly locked when the start process completes.

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Ryan Collins

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