Can anyone reccommend a good remote start? Would like to have a two-way so that I can tell whether it started, etc.

Anyone with practical experience - good or bad - with remote start?

 

I have had good success with DEI (Viper, Hornet, etc), Adiovox, and Clarion products. The last one I put in is an Audiovox which can start the car and verify the engine is running from 1500 to 1900 feet.

They can a real bear to install so I don't recomend it if you are not so inclined. You have to bypass security systems and the wiring diagrams are not always correct.

 

I recomend and install DEI products full time, they have very few problems compaired to other brands Ive installed in the past.

I would not recomend trying to install it yourself.
The newer Chrysler products are VERY difficult to install remote start/alarm/keyless entry systems into. Its not just because of the transponder keys either, its all the other circuits in the vehicle that are tricky.
You'll need extra relays and resisters just to make the new system work the starter, heater, door locks, flash the lights and so on.
Its not as easy as it used to be where you could just simply tap into the wires and be done

Try your best to find a GOOD installer, they are hard to find, I know because Ive had to fix more then a dozen remote starts that were done at other stores, JUST THIS YEAR!

 

Yeah, that is part of what scares me - finding a good installer. I would *love* to know how to install it myself, but I understand why I shouldn't. Just curious Eracer - where did you learn how to do it?

 

Ive always been big into electronics before I could even drive, so when I got out of high school I got the MECP book, and studied, and studied.
I knew the basics and how to hook things up prior, but with that book I learned the technical side of things and how it all works.
Then I took the test and got MECP certified and landed my first job as an installer back in 1994.
With all the new vehicles and products coming out every year, Ive been learing everyday as I go since then.
Ive been installing off and on for over 10 years now, man I feel old when I say that! LOL

 

Is it unusual to get a remote start without an alarm system? I don't really want/need a fancy alarm system, just want remote start, but it seems just about every system you see is an alarm system - and oh by the way it also includes remote start.

The Viper 5500 seems to fit the bill of what I'm looking for. I have to assume that the stock alarm system would still work with this (or similar) remote start only systems?