Should I have remote starter installed -- Accord 04 EX

I spoke to a Honda Dealer who said I shouldn't have a remote starter
installed at all due to frequencies in the security system that are
sensitive and change daily that would cause problems with a remote
starter. But I also spoke with a very reputable custom car shop and
they said they COULD install the remote start and they use a system
where they use the valet key and the security card that came with my
Accord to install the remote starter kit. They said it is very safe
and also professional (not a cheap system). They said it would run me
$550 when all is said and done.

First question: SHOULD I get a remote starter kit? I don't want to
wreck my Accord.
Second: Is $550 too much? I can't find pricse anywhere else.

Thanks.

 

When I asked around about remote starters I was told to make damn sure you
find a good installer. Also, ask if their installation, works in
conjunction with, or bypasses, the alarm and immobilizer systems. Since the
immobilizer system prevents the engine from starting without the chip in the
key, many installers will use a bypass to allow the engine to start. This
effectively disables your immobilizer system. The same thing for the
factory alarm. Most people don't care about that since it doesn't directly
affect them but it does make a difference for your insurance.

Many insurance companies offer a discount because the car is equipped with
an immobilizer and an alarm. If the car is ever stolen, and they find out
those systems were disabled by the remote starter installation, they could
refuse coverage. Just something to think about.

Sean

 

The place I got the quote from said they would need the security card
that I got from the dealer (credit card size) and also a valet key.
The way he described it would work is I would leave the car running,
get out of the car, close the door and turn off the car from the remote
transmitter. That way it ensures the car is in neutral when I turn it
back on with the remote transmitter. I will have to check about
whether or not it bypassing the security, but I seem to remember him
saying it would work with the security system (hence the use of the
security card and valet key, I assume).

Does this make any sense? I want to make sure I'm not getting screwed,
plus I would want to make sure they have a warranty on the install,
etc.

Thanks.

 

The obvious answer is no. But since you posted the question, you are
probably inclined to get one regardless of the advice given here. So,
with that in mind; as long as the installer does not cut the factory
wiring, or use piggy back fuse sockets you should be fine. And, you can
always revert back to stock, when problems do arise.

FYI, the factory alarm on your car has nothing what so ever to do with the
Imobilizer system.

Good luck, and as others have said: get a good installer to do the job.

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Thanks a lot. If it helps... when I warm up my car for about 5 minutes
each morning I then have a 45 mile (1 hour) drive to work. So that
might help.

I have a 2004 Honda Accord EX (4 cyl, 4 door) in Pennsylvania (U.S.).

I am very particular about keeping my car in top notch condition and
treating it well to make it last as long as possible (especially since
I put 35k miles on a year). If this remote starter would compromise
the efficiency and longevity of the engine, then I might reconsider.
Thanks!

 

-------------------------

The 'security card' is the one for your radio anti-theft code . . Since
he'll have your power disconnected, he will need that code to reactivate
your radio when he's done . .that's all that part is about.

If you feel you need to warm up your car to 'treat your engine better',
it's not actually true. Honda engines (actually all modern engines) work
best and last longer if warmed up gently, by driving them. They take too
long to warm up while idling, and burn very inneficiently, dumping
excess moisture and acids into your oil. It wouldn't be so bad as long
as you go for a long drive and dry some of that stuff out. If your
owner's manual is like mine, it probably says you shouldn't 'warm up'
the car. Start it and drive (gently).

And yes, the way your guy is talking about installing it _might_ mean
he's compromising your immobilizer, unless he's putting your valet key
in one of those powered key 'shields' which only expose the (hidden) key
when the alarm calls for it.

Knowing the brand name and model, as well as the country you in, might
clarify your question for the people around here who would know the more
exact answer.

'Curly'

 

Thanks Tom. Actually, because it IS so expensive I do value the
opinions given here. The Honda dealer said they never recommend remote
starters to be installed on new Honda's, so I am wary about doing it.
Thanks.