New Matrix with Toyota Auto Start

[Gumby1800]

I will be picking up my new 2010 Matrix AWD XR this week and was wondering if anyone has much experience with the Genuine Toyota Auto Start option.

I'm used to the autostart on my Grand Prix which had increadible range and started the car in a safe mode which prevented the wipers or other accessories from starting.

What can I expect from the Toyota version? No-one at the dealership, including the service dept. was very helpful in describing the Auto Start features.

I have had some tell me that I wasted my money, and that the Toyota version is poor, but I didn't want an extra key fob or the possibility of aftermarket glitches and warranty problems.

Any comments or experiences would be appreciated.

[nmehes]

Toyota remote start works through the normal key fob. You hit the lock button 3 times and hold it down. The car will start. Unlike the Grand Prix you have to unlock the doors to get in which turns off the car. Another thing to keep in mind is that it is only programmed to 1 key fob. Not both.

[Gumby1800]

Thanks nmehes for your quick response.

I got no response whatsoever to this question on the recently dead Matrix Owners Forum.

Do you know what kind of distance/range I can expect when starting the vehicle?