I am thinking about installing a remote starter on my 2008 Highlander, it does not have the smart key. I found one on line for $318.00 whih is the Toyota produced unit for that car.
They sent me the instructions and it seems intense, but I think I can handle the install. Has anyone attempted this on their own. I am a little concerned about playing with the airbag or voiding the cars warranty.
I am thinking about installing a remote starter on my 2008 Highlander, it does not have the smart key. I found one on line for $318.00 whih is the Toyota produced unit for that car.
They sent me the instructions and it seems intense, but I think I can handle the install. Has anyone attempted this on their own. I am a little concerned about playing with the airbag or voiding the cars warranty.
Thanks
Joe
Welcome to the forum. The search function works great! Some people can install it pretty easily. As you can see, some have quite a bit of trouble. It depends on your level of experience. As you can read, you still need to take it to the dealer to have the programming finished anyway.
Thank you for the links, that was an interesting thread to say the least. I will have to re-think this. Maybe I will get a price from Best Buy. Could you just clear up one thing? Does the dealer need to do the programing if the car does not have a smart key?
Joe
Spent two days having the dealer install our remote start and my wife is really pissed.
We had Best Buy install the Viper system in our 4Runner, and it worked well - when we went with the Highlander we were all gung ho about getting the factory system.
Well - first it took them forever because no one knew what they were doing - the second and biggest issue is that when we go to get in the car, it shuts off and you have to restart it.
WTF - the second you unlock the door it shuts off? Our aftermarket system would let us unlock, get in and insert the key and drive away, as long as you didn't hit the brake pedal before turning the key to on, you were good to go. It also had a feature where we could set the car to keep running, jump out of the car - with your keys - and lock it while it stayed running. This was great for running in stores on a cold day and coming back out and the car still being warm.
All in all - cost and convenience, I think I would go with an aftermarket system instead of the OEM. A local dealer - Thompson Toyota offers an aftermarket system that utilizes the factory keyfob and does not need to use your valet key to over ride the immobilizer system.
__________________
2010 Highlander SE 4WD
OEM Hitch installed myself
Sirius upgrade
DVD Headrests
Previous ride was a 2000 4Runner SR5 4X4
I have the OEM starter too and hate it. Mine came with the 08 I bought used and I really think it's stupid that you have to restart it after you unlock the doors.
I found this remote starter. What do you guys think? Any suggestion?
Do you know if the dealer will have to re-program after the remote starter is installed?
I strongly recommend against factory remote starter. They generally cost more, have less functionality and very low range. I purchased a Viper 5901, security and remote start combo, and it works wonderfully. Range is a good mile....and I use the range frequently. Also, feature I really like is that remote is rechargeable using a mini-usb, so I just plug it into my my USB cable I have for my blackberry when I get to work. Charged in an hour or two. I need to charge about every 6-8 weeks, depending on use. There are remote starter only versions as well. Autostart is another solid brand for remote starters.
I would NEVER attempt to install myself, but if you understand the vehicles electrical system, you might be ok. I had mine installed by authorized installer and still had an issue for quite some time where the alarm would sound if I remote started with the security on and doors locked.
Took installer several visits and several discussions with Viper tech to find out that for some reason, the HL emits a delayed signal (door if I recall correctly), that would trigger the alarm. It was a quick and easy program fix. No issues since.
Strongly recommend going with authorized dealer as they have access to proper tech support if necessary and also the proper programming tools.
__________________ 09 Black HL Sport, loaded Cdn version: AWD, bk leather int.
Mods: tinted windows; upgraded headlight and fog bulbs; bug deflector; Ichiba 15mm bolt on wheel spacers, Pioneer FH-P8000BT head unit; Blaupunkt underseat sub, Viper 5901 security/auto start, stainless dual exhaust tip, upgraded horns.
I found this remote starter. What do you guys think? Any suggestion?
Do you know if the dealer will have to re-program after the remote starter is installed?
Not sure where you are but I am in the Toronto area, are you? is so would you recommend your dealer?
Regards,
Denis
Here's the 5901, although there is a newer model with colour LCD, called the 5902. Mine was purchased and installed by Future Shop. Sorry, not in Toronto.
but, since the factory remote can lock/unlock doors/trunk..etc. I don't see why we need another remote to lock/unlock doors
This will work but careful on the install price. Usually there are other charges for hooking up door locks, having a bypass for keys with chips etc.
There are lots of options out there for remote starters. You just have to shop around. Key is to go with a reputable shop and ensure they are an authorized seller. You may pay a bit more, but its worth it if it means a proper job and no headaches with malfunctioning system or cars that won't start at all because of improper installation.
If I understand correctly, you want a remote starter that will function with your factory remote? I don't know of any after market remote starter that works with factory remotes given that its unlikely the two components would be incompatible. Plus, generally, factory remotes have terrible range compared to remotes that come with the remote starter.
__________________ 09 Black HL Sport, loaded Cdn version: AWD, bk leather int.
Mods: tinted windows; upgraded headlight and fog bulbs; bug deflector; Ichiba 15mm bolt on wheel spacers, Pioneer FH-P8000BT head unit; Blaupunkt underseat sub, Viper 5901 security/auto start, stainless dual exhaust tip, upgraded horns.
The Viper 5902 / 5902V can be purchased online (e.g., amazon.com) and you can install it yourself. The Viper website says that it is SmartStart-compatible but it says:
Q: Can I install Viper SmartStart myself?
A: Viper SmartStart is available only through authorized retailers that offer professional installation. Professional installation is required.
So I'm wondering if the Viper 5902/5902V in and of itself will allow SmartStart if it is then activated, and can I activate it myself?
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