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What You Need to Know When Selecting a Remote Starter For Your Vehicle

April 09, 2024
remote car starters edmonton

Summer may be just around the corner, but many Edmontonians are still feeling the chill of mornings spent scraping windows and shivering in the cold while they wait for their cars to warm up. With our infamous long winters and sub-zero temperatures, it’s no surprise that remote car starters are one of the most in-demand additions for your vehicle across Alberta.

As a great way to increase your comfort while commuting, remote starters can help keep your cabin temperature cozy no matter the outside environment.

At Certified Radio, we know how passionate Edmontonians are about customizing their vehicles for convenience. With decades of experience and one of the most diverse inventories you’ll find in the region, we’ve got everything you need to upgrade and stay comfortable while driving all year round.

Below, we’ll take a look at some of the top factors to keep in mind when considering a remote starter for your vehicle. Read on to learn more!

Choosing the Right Remote Start Solution

While it’s generally not overly difficult to find a remote starter that will work for your vehicle for optimal safety and performance, it’s best to keep a few factors in mind while looking. Different vehicle makes and models have different needs, and environmental factors, like where you park your vehicle, will also influence which remote start system is the ideal fit. Core details to keep in mind when shopping include:

Compatibility

One of the most common (and most preventable) mistakes people make when choosing a starter is failing to confirm if their chosen model will work with their vehicle. Whether you have an older or newer model, it’s essential to do your research and ensure what units work with your vehicle.

What About Manual Vehicles?

There is a long-held myth that manual transmissions can’t have remote starters installed. While this is false, it is more difficult to install and requires extra consideration.  In order for a remote starter to be safely and effectively used with manual transmissions, the unit must:

  • Interface with the clutch interlock;
  • Make sure the transmission is in neutral; and
  • Verify that the parking brake is engaged.

Quality and Durability

Invest in a starter made from high-quality materials and the newest technology so as to avoid premature wear and tear or poor performance. When shopping, look for features such as robust construction to ensure longevity and reliability.

Range

If you park on the street at home or find yourself in situations where your car is frequently parked far away, you’ll want to invest in a long-range remote whose signal has a much farther reach than other units. Consideration should also be given to units that work through your cell phone for those who want the ultimate in range and convenience.

DIY-Don’t

Many car enthusiasts enjoy being hands-on with their vehicle upgrades and repairs, and while it is possible to install a remote starter on your own, it’s also a recipe for disaster (and costly fixes) unless you have the right tools, experience, parts, and expertise. Installation requires delicate hands and know-how to avoid serious mistakes, as well as:

Precision and Accuracy

Professional installers like the team at Certified Radio have the skills to correctly align and connect all components, minimizing the risk of errors or complications. This precision is essential for optimal performance and reliability.

Time and Convenience

Finally, even experienced DIYers often find that “simple” projects like a remote starter installation can take significantly longer than anticipated. By hiring a professional, you save yourself the hassle and frustration of making costly mistakes, allowing you to focus on other priorities.

Don’t Get Left Out in the Cold Next Winter

Spring and summer are the perfect time to take advantage of remote starter installations! Get ready for next winter and enjoy the perks of a remote start that also cools down your car all summer long! Certified Radio is proud to offer Edmontonians the benefits of decades of industry-leading experience and a customer-first team that’s always here to meet your needs!

View our current stock here and contact our team today to learn more!