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Warm weather may still be lingering across Alberta, but as any savvy Edmontonian knows, winter is never too far away.  While many of us want to delay thinking about the inevitable, now is the perfect time to be looking ahead for solutions that help you stay warm on the roads this winter.

Remote car start solutions are a great way to increase your comfort and help with pesky cold-weather tasks like window scraping, etc. At Certified Radio, we’re proud to offer leading automotive solutions you can trust, including a wide range of remote start solutions.

If you’ve been debating installing a remote start to finally beat the cold this year, the time to shop and book your installation is now! Don’t get caught in the seasonal crush; be ahead of the curve once winter hits!

Below, we’ll take a look at 5 key things to keep in mind when considering remote start systems. Read on to learn more!

Vehicle Compatibility

Before you purchase a unit, it’s important to realize that remote starters are not “one size fits all.” In order to make sure you find the right fit for your car, you’ll need to ensure that any potential models are compatible with your vehicle’s make, model and year. Different cars have varying electrical systems, and certain remote units may not align with the specific components used in your car. Choosing a system that’s designed to interact with your vehicle helps avoid compatibility issues and ensures a smooth installation process.

Professional Installation

Speaking of installation, one of the biggest (and most expensive) mistakes we see people make when purchasing a remote start system is trying to install it themselves. Even if you’re fairly handy when it comes to auto repairs, it’s important to remember that alterations that involve electrical work, such as installing a remote start system, upgrading stereos, etc, all come with significant risks for even the simplest of mistakes. Wiring is often complex and easy to confuse, and minor errors can lead to major malfunctions, and even lead to electrical fires that destroy the vehicle.

Partnering with a skilled team of technicians like the installation pros at Certified Radio helps remove unnecessary risks and ensure you get the best performance and longest life cycle out of your remote starter.

Range and Signal Strength

The range of the remote car starter is an essential factor to consider when choosing your unit. Those living in apartments, condos, and other residences where their vehicle is parked farther away or working in offices with distant parking will want a remote system that has enhanced range to ensure their vehicle can react as efficiently as possible. You’ll also want to consider the signal strength if you deal with obstacles like walls, concrete structures, and other things that may cause difficulties. We offer a variety of remote car starters with different ranges, ensuring you find one that provides reliable performance despite potential signal obstructions.

Safety and Security Features

A good remote car starter should also come with essential safety and security features to protect your vehicle. Such features include engine cut-offs if a brake is pushed without a key in the vehicle and a secure signal relay to avoid unauthorized access from those with spoofers, etc. Many remote starters now come with other features like keyless entry, trunk release, and even smartphone accessibility for optimal convenience.

Weather Resistance

Let’s face it: Edmonton’s winters aren’t exactly easy on vehicles. When choosing any auto part, but especially any electrical component, it’s important to makes sure your unit is weather-resistant. While most units will struggle to work efficiently in extreme temperatures (as do any electrical devices), your top choice should be able to stand up to Alberta’s cold weather without failing. Certified Radio makes sure our remote starter units are up to the task so you can count on them to work all year round!

Battery Life

Finally, you’ll want to consider the battery life of your remote control. Shorter battery life can lead to inconsistent performance, particularly during cold snaps. Cold spells are when you need your starter most, so ensuring your battery life is as efficient as possible is crucial to maximizing your ROI.

Stay Cozy All Winter Long

For those thinking ahead and getting ready to battle winter ahead of the crowds, Certified Radio has you covered. Contact our team today to learn more about remote car starter system installation or by visiting us in-store!