Remote Start

[SGrooms]

I got my wife a remote start for her Durango for Valentine's Day. I like it so well I would like to get one for my pickup.

Any suggestions for a 2003 with an automatic? I have looked and looked, read forums here, and there is so much out there it boggles the mind.

The guy that installed my wife's suggested the same for mine but a different version. It is the Bulldog Deluxe 500.

Suggestions??

 

[Wingate]

dodge actually sells one for the diesels. . im sure its overpriced though. I've inquired with a local stereo/electronics shop and they said it was not a problem to put remote start on my 06... They have installed 3 remote start systems for me, all on gassers though... There were two controllers that I will have to purchase for an 06, not sure about an older truck. I believe the 06 models to have different electronics that the 05 and older.

Main thing is that the controller work well with the factory anti-theft system, that it has a start command delay for grid heater operation, and that it function with the factory key fob.

Talk to a REPUTABLE local car audio retailer. Usually they can be your best source of info.

 

[testraub]

This is the one I have works fine Just the link from amazon. Check their website

Amazon.com: Bulldog Deluxe 500 Two-Way Remote Starter with LCD Remote: Automotive

 

[EGroeneveld]

I have the Dodge/Mopar remote start on my 2005 Diesel 3500 with Auto and have been happy with it, I had it added at time of purchase as part of the deal and cannot remember what the breakdown was on price. It has worked great for 5 years and 60K miles.

 

[MChrist]

I'm in the midst of going through some remote start problems with my truck. I know that the place that installed mine installs tons of them and has been around for about 30 years, so I trust them. However, they can't seem to figure out the problem. .
The remote start function works flawlessly, but I get a CEL telling me that there is an invalid "skim" key, and a "park/neutral performance" problem. In other words, if the truck is running, and I open the door to get the mail, the alarm goes off and lights flash, just like when you try to back up to a trailer with the door open. (this goes away if I buckle the seatbelt though). I also lose my cruise control and Torque Converter Lock-up ability which is even worse, since I tow frequently.
The installer re-did everything, spent a total of three days on it and still didn't fix the problems I was having. They removed their electronics and everything went back to normal!
This may not help you, but something to keep in mind. I think it was a Viper or DEI brand. I think they are the same...

 

[SGrooms]

Yuck.

I don't have a security system so I don't know that will be a problem.

I am leaning toward the bulldog security system. It has been working very well in the wife's Durango.

Thanks for the input!

 

[Shadrach]

Even though I live in a cold part of the world I am not a fan of remote starters. I have owned several vehicle that have had them on when I bought them and I have used them although not much. If I'm walking to my car I will hit the button to start the engine so that the oil pressure is up and I can drive away sooner. When my daughter was a baby I did use it too prewarm up the van when it was -30.

I am cautious about buying a used vehicle with one on because I don't know how much idling time it has done. If an engine idles too much it adds a lot of wear and tear and shortens it's life. While some people do use them responsibly others, at least up here, leave their vehicle idle for hours. That's a lot of extra fuel your are burning and extra pollution as well. I much prefer an engine preheater such as a block heater or diesel fired engine heater ( Espar, Wabasto etc ) I am also aware that in some places people use them to cool down their vehicle as well. Shadrach