How to Install Remote Start: Information from Professionals

Installing a remote start system enhances your vehicle's functionality, providing both comfort and safety for everyday use. A remote start allows you to start your car remotely using a key fob or remote start button, making it a convenient upgrade for cold mornings or hot afternoons. You can warm up the engine and adjust the interior temperature before entering the vehicle, ensuring a more comfortable experience.

The remote start installation process involves connecting key components like the remote start module, wiring harness, and ignition switch to your vehicle's electrical system. By following the install instructions, including the wiring diagram and details for specific parts like the brake pedal and steering column, you can successfully integrate a remote start kit into your car.

Understanding the Components of a Remote Start Kit

To successfully install a remote start system, it’s essential to understand the key components of a remote start kit and their specific roles. Each part is important in making sure the system functions effectively and integrates seamlessly with your vehicle's existing features. Some of the main components include:

Key Fob

The key fob, or remote, is your primary control for activating the remote start system. Modern key fobs often include buttons for remote start, lock, unlock, and other functions. Other older fobs can access the remote start functionality by pressing a sequence of buttons, usually the lock button 3 times, or lock/unlock/lock depending on the vehicle. 

Remote Start Module

The remote start module is the heart of the system. It communicates with your vehicle’s electrical components to start the engine remotely. This module interfaces with the vehicle's control modules with harnesses that connect to the wiring area mentioned in your tip sheet. Some remote start kits will have a remote start module and bypass module, while others will only have a bypass module that works as both products.

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is a key connection point for the remote start system. It allows the remote start module to mimic the action of turning the key in the ignition to start the engine. Correctly and securely fastened connections to the ignition switch wiring are vital to the proper function of programs like plug and play.

T-Harness Connections

The T-harness simplifies the installation process by allowing the remote start kit to integrate with your vehicle's factory harness without cutting or splicing wires. This connector bridges the remote start system with your vehicle's electrical system, ensuring a secure and efficient connection.

Brake Pedal Connection

The brake pedal switch is a safety feature that ensures the vehicle cannot be shifted out of park without pressing the brake. It is always best to test wires if possible. With a multimeter set to DC voltage, test the voltage on the brake wire shown in the tip sheet. It should have close to 0 volts when the brake is not pressed, and 12 volts when it is. During installation, the wiring diagram will guide you on connecting this component to maintain safety standards.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

This guide provides a very general overview of the steps involved in installing a remote start system. Keep in mind that specific installation steps can vary significantly based on your vehicle's make, model, and year. It’s crucial to consult your remote start kit’s installation manual and wiring diagram for vehicle-specific instructions. For more detailed guidance, MyPushcart provides professional installation options and comprehensive instructional videos tailored to some cars, ensuring you have the resources needed to complete the installation successfully.

Below is a broad outline of the process, including connections on the steering and passenger sides, programming, and computer-based setup.

 Connection on the Steering Side

• Review Installation Instructions
  • Review and determine the areas you need to access.
  • Preparation can include removing the steering wheel cover, knee bolster cover, kick panel cover, and in some cases, the glove box to access the passenger side connections. 

• Remove Covering

  • After checking the instructions, remove the outlined sections to allow access to the wires needed in your remote start kit’s instructions.

• Disconnecting Plugs and Connecting Wires

  •  Locate the plug containing the wires that need to be connected based on your remote start system

  • Use the connectors to splice the wires together using the wrap, poke, tape method.

  • For a t-harness connection, carefully disconnect the connector from the vehicle and connect that to the female connection on the t-harness. Then plug the male end of the t-harness into the vehicle, making sure not to bend any pins or pull wires tight. Make sure both ends are fully fastened. 

• Cut Unused Wires:

  • Carefully cut any wires provided in the kit that the car doesn't have a function for, as outlined in your install manual, to prevent unnecessary clutter or potential malfunctions.

Potential Connection on the Passenger Side

• Remove Glove Box: Remove the glove box to access the power body module and other relevant components on the passenger side of the vehicle.

• Connect T-Harness or Provided Connectors: Follow the previous instructions and attach the remote start system to the power body module using the T-harness or other connectors provided in the kit. This ensures a secure and efficient connection between the system and your vehicle's electrical components.

Physical Programming

• Initiate Programming Mode: Press and hold the program button on the remote start module to enter programming mode.

• Connect the Connector: Attach the 4-pin or 6-pin connector to the remote start module while holding the program button.

• Look for Indicator Lights: Pay attention to the lights on the module, which indicate successful programming mode entry. Make sure to release the program button on the light color indicated in your guide. 

• Plug in Additional Connectors: Connect the remaining wires and harnesses to the module, ensuring all connections are secure.

• Follow Button Sequences:  Press the relevant buttons on the key fob (e.g., lock and unlock) and watch for indicator lights confirming successful programming.

• Remove Module if Further Programming is Needed (optional): Complete the vehicle programming and then disconnect the module power last. Once the computer programming is completed, reconnect the module, being careful to connect to the vehicle power first and not hit the button on the module when you connect it. 

• Finalize Programming:  For OEM remote-controlled kits, the blue light on the module should flash once each time you press the lock from the OEM remote if the installation is successfully implemented. To activate the remote starter, press the relevant buttons on the key fob, as outlined in the guide, usually lock 3 times, or lock/unlock/lock. 

Computer-Based Programming

Depending on your kit and car type, computer-based programming may be the main way you set up your remote start programming instructions. In other cases, the remote start can be programmed manually through the car, and computer programming can be used to solve any issues, such as an over-crank when starting the car. 

• Prepare for Computer Setup: Begin by downloading the Fortin Flashlink Manager for your Windows PC or laptop (not compatible with Apple and mobile phones). Save the Flashlink manager to your desktop and then open it and log in with the credentials provided in the tip sheet.

• Program Using Tip Sheet: Refer to the tip sheet provided with your remote start kit for specific programming instructions. 

• Connect the Correct Module: Connect the module to your computer in the following order, plug in the flashlink tool, then after the Flashlink manager recognizes the tool, plug the EVO module into the tool. Proceed once the Flashlink manager recognizes the EVO module.

• Access the Remote Start Tab: Unless directed in the tip sheet to do otherwise, open the decryptor tab, click the send key data, and wait for the program to finalize.

• Finalize Computer Programming: After the decrypter is finished and all steps on the tip sheet are completed, unplug the EVO from your computer and reconnect to the vehicle. Ensure that you plug in all the connectors' power first without pressing the buttons on the module. 

By following these steps, you can successfully install a remote start system, ensuring proper connections, programming, and functionality. Always consult the installation instructions and wiring diagrams provided in your remote start kit for vehicle-specific details, and consider seeking assistance from a professional installer at MyPushcart.

Testing and Troubleshooting the Remote Start System

After installing your remote start system, thorough testing is essential to ensure it functions correctly. Start by pressing the series of lock unlock buttons on your OEM key fob shown in your tip sheet or the aftermarket remote, if included, to activate the remote start and confirm the engine starts. Test the keyless entry to ensure the lock and unlock buttons work for aftermarket remotes or smartphone systems.

Possible Solutions

If issues arise, ensure all connectors, including the T-harness and ignition switch wiring, are secure. If there are any wire-to-wire connections made with t-taps on your vehicle's installation, check to make sure they are connected properly. If you are concerned, remove the t-tap and splice the wire using the strip/pok/tape method. Retry the programming after verifying all connections are secure, if the programming is successful, the blue light on the EVO will flash once when the lock button is pressed.

 For unresponsive fobs, check the battery and confirm the fob was paired correctly during programming. Reprogramming the fob may be needed to ensure it is paired properly.  For persistent problems, consult the wiring diagram or recheck the programming steps.

If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, reach out to our technical support for expert help using the information provided on your tip sheet, or by creating a support ticket. Our professional assistance can address compatibility issues or programming errors, ensuring your remote start system works seamlessly with your vehicle.

MyPushcart Unlocks the Benefits of a Remote Start

MyPushCart's remote start system adds significant value to your vehicle, enhancing both comfort and safety. Whether it’s warming up the car on a cold morning or ensuring your vehicle is ready before you step inside, a remote start system is a practical upgrade for any driver. We make this upgrade easier by offering top-quality auto accessories and a wide range of remote start kits designed for various makes and models.

Since every vehicle’s installation process is unique—varying by make, model, and year - we provide different resources to guide you through the process, including professional installation services and comprehensive instructional videos for some cars.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer expert assistance, we ensure your remote start system is installed efficiently and correctly. By choosing MyPushCart, you’re investing in high-quality products and a team committed to making your installation experience as seamless as possible.

Resources:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4b_gSciGIg&t=242s 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCERrFwAiisjLJBpQRL8lU4w