Best Car Remote Starters For 2021

It’s hot and muggy, and your car has been baking in the sun for hours. Or, at another time, the temperature is well below freezing, there’s ice on the car’s windshield, and you’ll need gloves just to grip the steering wheel. It’s times like these when a remote car starter would be a welcome blessing.

From the comfort of your house, apartment, or office, you’d simply press a button on a

Best Overall

Prestige APS997Z

Sale

$137.98

(-$7.99) (6%)

Why We Picked It

The Prestige APS997Z is the best overall value we’ve seen. It gives you an array of high-end features for a reasonable price. This two-way system has a one-mile range and an LCD-equipped key fob that lets you easily see what’s happening with your vehicle. It includes keyless entry and a security system, and can be used with CarLink to allow smartphone control and GPS tracking. The system comes with two five-button key fobs and a glass-mount antenna with an LED light and valet switch. And it allows selectable run times and start modes, and even a parking meter countdown. Limited lifetime warranty.

Pros & Cons

Two-way communication lets you see vital info on the key fob’s LCD screen
Long one-mile range
Compatible with the CarLink smartphone system for unlimited range, GPS tracking, and remote operation over a cellular network (subscription required)

More expensive than one-way systems
Second key fob is one-way only
Some users say it’s hard to install and recommend having it done by a pro

Best Runner-Up

CrimeStopper RS7-G5

Sale

$119.95

(-$9.96) (8%)

Why We Picked It

The CrimeStopper RS7-G5 is another well-equipped two-way system. It’s a little less expensive than the Prestige APS997Z but has a shorter range (3,000 feet) and no integrated security system, and there’s no option to control it with a smartphone.

The system comes with two five-button transmitters that, in addition to starting the vehicle, provide keyless entry, let you lock and unlock the doors, and let you operate a trunk release or sliding door. Limited lifetime warranty.

Pros & Cons

This two-way system includes a handy LCD transmitter
Lets you lock and unlock the vehicle, as well as operate a trunk release or sliding door
3.000-foot range

Range is shorter than that of the Prestige APS997Z
Doesn’t include a security system
Second key fob is one-way only, with a 2,000-foot range

Best One-Way System

Prestige APS787Z

Why We Picked It

This model is very similar to the Prestige APS997Z but without the two-way communication and LCD key fob. It comes with two five-button transmitters that operate up to a mile and allow a range of functions, including keyless entry. The APS787Z includes an integrated security system and antenna with LED light and valet switch, and allows selectable run times and start modes. It also works with the CarLink system to allow smartphone control. Overall, it’s an excellent system if your vehicle is typically nearby and visible.

Pros & Cons

Less expensive than two-way systems
Long one-mile range
Compatible with the CarLink smartphone app for unlimited range, GPS tracking, and remote operation over a cellular network (subscription required)

Lacks the feedback of a two-way system
More expensive than some other one-way systems
Some users advise having a pro do the installation

Best for a Tight Budget

CrimeStopper RS4-G5

Sale

$59.64

(-$9.90) (17%)

Why We Picked It

For a budget-friendly price, the CrimeStopper RS4-G5 has some impressive features. This one-way system comes with two five-button transmitters that give you keyless entry, remote locking and unlocking, and the ability to operate a trunk release or sliding door. It also has a reasonable 2,000-foot range. If all you need is a remote-starter system without two-way communication, this fits the bill while still giving you some extras. Limited lifetime warranty.

Pros & Cons

One of the least expensive systems we’ve seen.
Five-button key fobs let you lock and unlock the vehicle, as well as operate a trunk release or sliding door.
2,000-foot range.

Doesn’t provide the feedback of a two-way system.
Doesn’t include an integrated security system.
There’s no option for controlling the system from a smartphone.

Best for Smartphone Control

CompuStar CS4900-S

Sale

$149.95

(-$20.00) (13%)

Why We Picked It

While the CS4900-S is the most expensive system here, it’s a great value for a smartphone-capable system. This two-way system’s transmitter uses an LED for confirmation and has a 3,000-foot range. Those are modest boasts, but if you’ll be primarily using a smartphone, there’s no need to pay extra for more capability.

The DroneMobile X1-LTE smartphone controller allows “limitless” range over a cellular network and GPS tracking of the car, and it shows vehicle info in the app. But it requires a service plan. If you want a longer one-mile range, security system, and LCD key fob, opt for the CompuStar CS8900-AS.

Pros & Cons

Allows GPS tracking and smartphone control out of the box.
Good overall value for a smartphone-capable system.
3,000-foot range.

Smartphone functionality requires a data-plan subscription.
No integrated security system.
LED key fob doesn’t provide as much info as an LCD display.

Bestselling Antitheft Remote Starters on Amazon

Sponsored

Bestseller No. 1

687 Reviews

Compustar CS4900-S (4900S) 2-way Remote Start and Keyless Entry System with 3000-ft Range

Compustar CS4900-S (4900S) 2-way Remote Start and Keyless Entry System with 3000-ft Range
2 4-Button remotes with Lock, Unlock, Trunk Release, & Remote Start/Stop buttons
All-in-one remote start & keyless entry system

SaleBestseller No. 2

273 Reviews

Prestige APS997Z Two-Way LCD Confirming Remote Start & Alarm 1-Mile Range

(1) Five Button 2-Way LCD Confirming Transmitter (1) Five Button 1-Way Transmitter Flash Logic FLCART Compatible Glass Mount Antenna with Built-in LED Light

SaleBestseller No. 3

Innova 3630 Remote Starter Switch

Cranks engine from under the hood without the help of an assistant
Includes heavy duty 6-foot oil and grease resistant leads
Extra large, easy to use insulated metal clips eliminate risk of accidental shock

SaleBestseller No. 4

1,076 Reviews

Avital 4105L 1-Way Remote Start System with 4-Button Remote

Avital remote start system includes two 4-buttom remotes with up to one and a half mile range
Lock, unlock, trunk release, and remote start
Fault-proof starter interrupt - Keep your car where you parked it with this layer of protection against “hot-wiring” by car thieves.

Bestseller No. 5

7 Reviews

MPC Factory Remote Activated Remote Start Kit for 2015-2017 Toyota Sequoia - H-Key - with T-Harness - Firmware Preloaded

✅ WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW - This is a complete remote starter kit for 2015-2017 Toyota Sequoia - H-Key - Gas. Includes a all-in-one remote start data interface bypass module, and T-Harness. Firmware preloaded and is ready to be programmed to YOUR vehicle. All components required for installation are included. Automatic Transmission ONLY Product may not work in vehicles manufactured for sale outside of U.S. & Canada
✅ REMOTE START FEATURES - This is an All-In-One Add-on remote start system for vehicles with existing keyless entry. Does not include remotes - this uses your factory remotes to start your vehicle by pressing the "lock" button three times. No need to carry extra key fobs! Warm or cool your car from the comfort of your home.
✅ SEMI PLUG & PLAY INSTALLATION TYPE - This kit uses a plug-in T-Harness which dramatically reduces number of wiring connections that typical systems require. The installation of this product will still require some wiring connections. We provide concise directions with wire colors and locations. A person with basic knowledge of wiring car electronics should be able to install this product successfully.

Bestseller No. 6

Compustar CS920-S (920S) 1-way Remote Start and Keyless Entry System with 1000-ft Range

Compustar CS920-S (920S) 1-way Remote Start and Keyless Entry System with 1000-ft Range
1000-ft max range remote start bundle with two 1-way remotes. Includes CM900 control module.
All-in-One Remote Start Bundle

Bestseller No. 7

3,096 Reviews

Start-X Remote Start Kit for F-150 2015-2020, F-250 17-21, Ranger 19-21, Expedition 18-20, Edge 15-20, Fusion 14-20, Explorer 16-21, Transit 20-21, Escape 20-21 (Lock Unlock Lock)

✅ USA- This kit is brought to you by Start-X, the leading plug n play remote start company in North America. The Remote Start module contains patented technology, is proudly designed, engineered, and manufactured in North America. With tens of thousands satisfied customers you can't go wrong. Start-X technical support agents are located in the USA and provide support in English.
✅ #1 BEST SELLING KIT - Use the #1, bestselling Remote Start kit to warm up your vehicle in those freezing mornings. With tens of thousands satisfied customers, this kit is rock solid. No more waiting 10 min to defog your windshield.
✅ COMPATIBILITY F-150 2015-2020, F-250/F-350 17-21, Ranger 19-21, Expedition 18-20, Edge 15-20, Fusion 14-20, Explorer 16-21, Transit 20-21, Escape 20-21 Compatible with both gas and diesel, key start, and push to start. 🔴🔴 NOT COMPATIBLE WITH HYBRIDS. 🔴🔴Functional hood pin required. Open the hood and start the engine. If you see a hood ajar indicator, you have a functional hood pin.

Bestseller No. 8

Start-X Remote Start Kit for Rogue 2014-2020 || Key Start Vehicles Only || Plug n Play || Zero Wire Splicing || Not Compatible with Rogue Select

✅ START YOUR VEHICLE REMOTELY- Use the most complete Plug N Play Remote Starter KIT to warm up your vehicle in those freezing mornings. No more waiting 10 min to defog your windshield. 😊 Press lock 3 times on your existing remote, to remote start.
✅ START-X T-HARNESS – This kit includes a unique Start-X T-harness that greatly simplifies the install. There is zero wire splicing or cutting involved, completely plugs into the factory connectors.
✅ COMPATIBLE VEHICLES – This kit is compatible only with a Rouge 2014-2020. Key Start vehicles only 🔴🔴 Will not work if the vehicle is started by pressing a button. 🔴🔴 Only compatible with automatic transmission, will not work with manual transmission.🔴🔴 Not Compatible with Rogue Select

Bestseller No. 9

19 Reviews

The Ultimate Remote Car Starter Buying Guide

Amazon Kindle Edition
Schaffer, Mitchell (Author)
English (Publication Language)

Bestseller No. 10

75 Reviews

Start-X Remote Starter for Mazda 3 || Mazda 6 || CX-5 || CX-9 || MX-5 Miata || Plug N Play (Lock 3 Times)

✅ START YOUR VEHICLE REMOTELY - Use the most complete Plug N Play Remote Starter kit to warm up your vehicle in those freezing mornings. No more waiting 10 min to defog your windshield.
COMPATIBILITY – This kit is compatible with Mazda 3 14-18, Mazda 6 2014+, Mazda CX-5 2013+, Mazda CX-9 2016+, and Mazda MX-5 Miata 2016+.🔴🔴AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ONLY🔴🔴
✅ PLUG ‘N PLAY T-Harness – Revised, unique Start-X T-Harness designed specifically for select Mazda's. No wires need to be cut or spliced. However, there is some disassembly of your vehicle required. Please see the video. Instructions are included, or you may view our instruction video for super easy and fast installation.

Methodology

Forbes Wheels compared the features, specs, and pricing of more than eighty remote-starter systems and components; reviewed evaluations by other critics and end users; and drew on our own experiences and discussions with installers and industry representatives. The five systems selected here represent the best overall values in this category for people with different needs.

Can I install a remote-start system myself?

Most people have a professional installer do the work for them. But if you’re savvy about automotive electrical systems you may be able to do it yourself. Do some research first, though. Manufacturers typically provide installation instructions and wiring diagrams on their websites, so you can review the procedure before you buy and see if there are any other components (or tools) you’ll need for your vehicle. If you plan on having a pro shop do the installation, be sure to call around to find one that will work with the system you want. Some shops prefer to stick with only the systems they sell and are familiar with. The cost of an installation can vary a lot, depending on the system and the vehicle. Best Buy’s Geek Squad, for example, charges $150 for a standard remote-starter installation, but that doesn’t include vehicle-specific parts. And more sophisticated systems require more installation time.

What is the difference between 1-way and 2-way systems?

One-way remote-starter systems, which are the least expensive type, send a signal from the key fob to the car, but can’t receive a return signal. They can work well when your vehicle is nearby, such as in your driveway, so you can tell when the engine has started by listening for a horn honk or seeing the lights flash. Two-way systems are more convenient because they will send a return signal to its compatible key fob when the engine has started, usually by flashing an LED on the fob or communicating through icons on an LCD display. Higher-end two-way systems can also communicate more info, such as the interior temperature, various security system functions, or even a parking meter countdown.

How far away can I control a remote starter system?

Most remote-starter systems have an operating range between a quarter-mile and a mile, line of sight. If your vehicle is always nearby this isn’t of much importance. But if you want to be able to start the car while it’s, say, sitting in an outside parking lot or parked a few blocks down the street, a longer operating range can be handy.

Can a remote starter be installed on any vehicle?

Some universal systems claim they can be installed on more than 90 percent of vehicles. But some cars, such as a hybrid or one with a manual transmission, may require extra components. If there’s a question, it’s best to review the installation instructions or call a pro installer before you buy.

Can someone hop in my car while the engine is running?

Remote starter systems let you start the engine. But they don’t unlock the doors (unless you do that yourself). So, there’s no worry of someone driving off with your half-warmed-up car.

Can warming up my vehicle burn extra fuel?

Yes, and it’s a trade-off. Naturally, any time your engine is running while your vehicle is standing still, you’re getting zero miles per gallon. But cars use a minimal amount of fuel when idling. And letting the engine warm up for a few minutes means that the car will operate more efficiently when you do start driving. Moreover, being comfortable and relaxed while driving will make you more attentive, which makes you a safer driver.

Best Car Remote Starters For 2022

Methodology