A remote starter is a
radio control
Radio control (often abbreviated to RC) is the use of control signals transmitted by radio to remotely control a device. Examples of simple radio control systems are garage door openers and keyless entry systems for vehicles, in which a small ...
led device, which is installed in a vehicle by the factory or an aftermarket installer to preheat or cool the vehicle before the owner gets into it. Once activated, by pushing a button on a special key chain remote, it starts the vehicle automatically for a predetermined time. Different models have
keyless entry
A remote keyless system (RKS), also known as keyless entry or remote central locking, is an electronic lock that controls access to a building or vehicle by using an electronic remote control (activated by a handheld device or automatically by ...
as well. Most newer vehicles need some kind of bypass module to bypass the factory
anti-theft system
Anti-theft systems protect valuables such as vehicles and personal property like wallets, phones, and jewelry. They are also used in retail settings to protect merchandise in the form of security tags and labels. Anti-theft systems include devices ...
, so the vehicle can be started without the
ignition key
A car key or an automobile key is a key used to open and/or start an automobile. Modern key designs are usually symmetrical, and some use grooves on both sides, rather than a cut edge, to actuate the lock. It has multiple uses for the automobile w ...
in the ignition, this is bypassed only to start the vehicle, which after it is running returns to its original state. For cars with
manual transmission
A manual transmission (MT), also known as manual gearbox, standard transmission (in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States), or stick shift (in the United States), is a multi-speed motor vehicle transmission (mechanics), transmission ...
additional safety features may need to be added to prevent the car from starting while it's parked in gear. Having a remote starter installed in a vehicle will usually not void the factory warranty when installed properly.
The first manufacturer to introduce remote start bypass modules to bypass vehicle anti-theft systems was Fortin auto radio based in Montreal, Quebec (Canada). By 1985 multiple manufacturers began producing the devices and automobile manufacturers began offering the remote start devices as an option.
Newer cars with pushbutton starts can also be interfaced, but some do not have a "take over" procedure.
References
{{DEFAULTSORT:Remote Starter
Auto parts