Clients of Ralph’s Radio in Vancouver and Victoria often ask us if we offer factory key fob remote start solutions. For most vehicles on the road, we can install an interface module that will let you start the engine using the remote that came from the factory. Known as 3x Lock start, this feature is convenient but has a few drawbacks. Keep reading to find out how 3x Lock start works and details about its limitations.
Factory Key Fob Remote Start Benefits
Being able to start your car or truck using the factory-installed keyless entry system remote means that you don’t need to add a second remote to your keychain. To start your vehicle, all you have to do is press the lock button on your remote three times in quick succession. The computerized interface modules we use interpret this command as a request to start. The starter system takes over and completes the process of starting the vehicle.
Communication Range Limits
While factory key fob remote start systems are convenient, they have one significant drawback: limited range. The remotes that come with our cars and trucks are designed to work at distances up to 60 meters under ideal conditions. This distance might be enough if your car is parked in the driveway of your home but it certainly won’t work from inside an office building, a shopping mall or an apartment.
Your car or truck needs time to warm up. What good is a remote starter if you can only start the vehicle 30 seconds before you get to it?
Long-Range Remote Control Options
Ralph’s Radio carries a variety of remote control solutions. The most basic of our Compustar remote starters includes a remote rated for more than 240 meters. Our most popular solutions include two-way communication to let you know when a start request from the key fob has been received and executed. The remote will buzz and an icon will light up to let you know your car has started or you have locked the doors. Most of our two-way remotes provide 900 meters of range under ideal conditions.
If you are looking for two amazing remote control options, the PRO T11 remote includes an LCD screen that displays icons to confirm the receipt of command requests. The remote includes a USB rechargeable lithium-ion battery, is fully waterproof with an IPX-7 rating and works over distances as far as 8 kilometers!
If you’d prefer never to have to think about range again, we offer the DroneMobile telematics system. DroneMobile uses a cellular interface in your vehicle to communicate with an app on your iPhone or Android smartphone. You can be in Vancouver and can make sure your doors are locked if your car is in Victoria.
Visit the Remote Starter Experts at Ralph’s Radio
Before you buy a remote car starter, drop by Ralph’s Radio in Vancouver or Victoria and speak with a member of our team. They will work with you to help you get the features and range you require to ensure that your car or truck is always comfortable when it’s time to go. For more information, call our store nearest to you or send us an e-mail using our contact page.