A Full Guide to Remote Start Installation

Updated: Jun. 09, 2023

Remote starters are convenient, inexpensive and easy to install. Learn about remote start installation here.

Remote starter installationFamily Handyman
Install a remote starter for your car yourself. It's a great upgrade, inexpensive and a project you can do yourself with simple tools and the supplied wiring diagram.

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How to buy and install a remote car starter

remote car starter installation

Remote starters for your car

These remote car starters come with a test light and wire splicing supplies to simplify installation.

About remote car starter installation

Remote starters are downright cheap these days. You can get one with some pretty cool features for about $40 at amazon.com. If you can read a wiring diagram, are patient enough to use a test light before you connect wires and are willing to take the time to make really good splices, you can install a remote starter yourself and save about $125.

If your vehicle has an antitheft system, make sure the remote start unit includes all the necessary components. Some “inexpensive” brands require additional (and costly) antitheft bypass modules. The Bulldog RS82B unit shown here works with most antitheft systems and comes with a computer-safe test light and wire splicing supplies.

Download the free wiring diagram for your specific vehicle from the manufacturer’s website (in this case, bulldogsecurity.com). Follow the instructions for the remote car starter installation. When finished, you can program the unit to work with your key fob remote.

If you want more high tech features, get Bulldog Security’s Deluxe model. You’ll get a two-way LCD transmitter/ receiver with a half-mile range. The starter sends a confirmation signal back to the receiver letting you know the engine has started. And the in-car temp sensor reads cabin temperature and transmits that to the screen as well. The deluxe unit also includes remote keyless entry, so you can ditch the factory remote.

Required Materials for this Remote Car Starter Installation Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time for car starter installation. Here’s a list.

  • Remote starter kit

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