Who makes the best remote start? [Archive] - Diesel Place : Chevrolet and GMC Diesel Truck Forums

: Who makes the best remote start?


HotRodHarry
11-11-2006, 01:28 PM
Looking for one that is of good quality, and has great range.

86underboost
11-11-2006, 04:03 PM
astrostart.....range is incredible, very reliable!!!

contact maxpower on here...he's the man with this stuff.

-mike

FlyACL
11-11-2006, 04:59 PM
What he said... Lots of info on here about this. I would recommend a search. Try not to go blind reading it all...

blnagel
11-11-2006, 05:40 PM
I recently installed 2 astrostart units from Maxpower and his technical assist was OUTSTANDING! Without his help, I would not have done it myself.

dmaxalliTech
11-11-2006, 05:42 PM
another vote for an Astro start with Tony

Heron
11-11-2006, 06:47 PM
Looking for one that is of good quality, and has great range.

Just installed my 2505A from Astrostart on Monday. INCREDIBLE range! I can start it from inside my building, walk about 500ft across the street and the truck is running. I would definitely get the 2 way pager Astrostart. It's nice because it lets you know if the truck started and locked and is really nice. The last remote started I had was a Viper and it was one way and didn't have the range this Astrostart has.
Talk to MAX POWER and get one on the way!

srode
11-11-2006, 08:52 PM
Ditto what others have said, Max Power is a good guy to work with, very helpful. I ordered my 2205 from him, but haven't installed it yet. Have heard nothing but good about them though.

BIGMoe
11-11-2006, 09:56 PM
Another vote for Astrostart !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MAX POWER is the man to talk to.

ob_1jr
11-11-2006, 11:30 PM
Astro start is good (had one on my last truck), so is my clifford that I have now.....you can't really go wrong with a 2-way paging system since almost all of them are made by DEI anyway.

GMC2500HD
11-11-2006, 11:46 PM
There are many versions of the Astrostart, as was said above, talk to Maxpower and he will steer you in the direction that you want to go and he can tell you all of the features and updates that are available for the systems. Good luck

LeroyR
11-12-2006, 11:37 AM
How much do these units cost (cost range)?

Steezey
11-12-2006, 12:52 PM
I had a clifford on my old gas truck. It would work from 1000 feet away. Always let me know if someone was messing with my truck too because it was an alarm also. BTW does anyone know if it will work on my diesel. How do I set it so it waits for 10 or 15 seconds before starting (gotta wait for them glow plugs)?

problemchild
11-12-2006, 01:41 PM
Buy the astro and for 12.00 dollars I can clone it and drive your truck away.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ASTROSTART-AFTERMARKET-AUTO-KEYLESS-REMOTE-TRANSMITTER_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33723QQihZ0 09QQitemZ190049045139QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

Tom S.
11-12-2006, 05:33 PM
Buy the astro and for 12.00 dollars I can clone it and drive your truck away.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ASTROSTART-AFTERMARKET-AUTO-KEYLESS-REMOTE-TRANSMITTER_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33723QQihZ0 09QQitemZ190049045139QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

How do you do that without having the key to unlock the steering column - or hitting the brake and killing the engine?

Diesel Dually
11-12-2006, 05:51 PM
Don't you need access to the alarm's valet button to program another fob?

Max Power
11-12-2006, 06:03 PM
You need to program the remote into the module itself. Besides that is an old old astro start model. .

ARM
11-12-2006, 08:38 PM
I Have A Viper System.. Put In My 03 And Transfered It To My 05.. Works Great And Not One Problem With It..

Arm

BigBadAllis
11-12-2006, 08:39 PM
I assume that it has a delay for the glow plugs? Sounds like I might have to get one of these too.

Max Power
11-12-2006, 08:40 PM
Astrostarts have a timer but better yet they have a wait to start input wire. So it will actually monitor the wait to start light and start after it goes out. In my opinion a timer is the wrong way to do it.

Fitter48093
11-12-2006, 08:48 PM
Max thanks for your input on all these topics

HotRodHarry
11-12-2006, 09:19 PM
Thatnks everyone. How much do they cost, the Astro?

irishtornado
11-12-2006, 09:48 PM
Astostart is the way I'm going 2205a has everything I want for my SLT and thanks again Max for setting me straight about the LCD

malibu795
11-25-2006, 08:41 PM
How do you do that without having the key to unlock the steering column - or hitting the brake and killing the engine?
i dont know about you but my truck dose not have a steering colum lock

ajk bell
11-25-2006, 08:54 PM
I will add my vote to Astro start ... great range and 2 way page is very nice. :)

Dirt_Farmer
11-25-2006, 09:21 PM
Does the astrostart or any of them use the factory keyless entry, or do you have to tap into the lock wires also?

Thanks, Jeff

saskpuller
11-25-2006, 09:47 PM
With chevy trucks (newr anyway), all you have to hook up is the ignition, accessory, battery,parking lights,starter,horn,wait to start(glow plugs) and brake switch. Also 4 wires to hook up the security bypass. The door locks are done thru the security bypass install. Get an Astrostart from either nyself or Max Power. You won't be disappointed.

LeroyR
11-25-2006, 11:03 PM
Still wondering about cost....

GotMeDa1Ton
11-26-2006, 03:19 AM
For all the DEI units i've installed, i've had very few problems with them. They also have the wait to start input on them. I've used a 2-way clifford dei unit for over 4 years now in a zr2 blazer without any problems. Most of the problems people have are directly related to the install though...

srode
11-26-2006, 04:11 AM
Still wondering about cost....PM MaxPower for a price, the 2205A is the two way paging model you will probably want.

Antnee77
11-26-2006, 11:41 AM
Just curious, the factory wires you have to tap into, are they under the dash or under the hood?

srode
11-26-2006, 01:19 PM
None under the hood, you need to run a wire there for a switch though. 13 wires to tap, one more if you have an LB7 with high idle installed, plus 4 more if you get an alarm.

Antnee77
11-27-2006, 12:17 AM
So if they're under the dash, why can't you just use butt connectors to splice into the line? Why is it necessary to solder if there is no issue of water/moisture?

Jasondt2001
12-08-2006, 04:36 PM
I saw a few pictures of the keyfobs (remotes) for the astro's... I was wondering if you use the astro start keyfob to lock/unlock and set the alarms and keep you OEM ones somewhere else in a drawer (what i'm asking is, will the new ones make it so i can put the OEM ones in a drawer somewhere and I won't have to carry 2 keyfobs for 1 vehicle?)

dmax4fun
12-08-2006, 04:41 PM
Yes that is the way they work. Put your OE ones away.

Jasondt2001
12-08-2006, 04:43 PM
Thanks for the quick response Dmax!! I think i found something to ask my wife to get me for Christmas!

Now I'm off to search and learn about Turbo Timers. LOL

srode
12-08-2006, 06:06 PM
So if they're under the dash, why can't you just use butt connectors to splice into the line? Why is it necessary to solder if there is no issue of water/moisture? You don't have to cut any wires, and it's probably about the same amount of work either way. There isn't a lot of slack in the factory harness. Soldering isn't required, but it does make a better connection that is less likely to have problems down the road.

Max Power
12-09-2006, 02:43 AM
Crimp connectors pull apart, they add resistance, they are junk. They should never ever be used for anything period.

kimagine
12-09-2006, 02:54 AM
What about the (I believe the model #) 5204 2 way system? It is the Astrostart remote start(2 way), alarm and keyless entry with the turbo timer, GP relay and much more. I may be wrong on the model number and don't feel like running out to the cold truck to find out but that is what I may be getting for B-day and X-mas....:D

Mark

Max, If you know of the model number I'm going for here, please chime in.
Thanks

Max Power
12-09-2006, 03:02 AM
5204 is the model you are referring too.

I prefer the 2205 over the 5204 for several reasons. The 2205 remote is a newer design so they fixed all the problems they had with the 5204/4204 remote. The main problem with the 4204/5204 remote is that the buttons are too easy to push so they easily get bumped in your pocket etc. The 2205 batteries also last longer. Also the 4204 only has 4 buttons and the 2205 has 5 so with the 4204 you have to use more combinations of buttons to do certain things such as shut it off etc.

If you get the alarm with the 2205 it functions exactly the same as the 5204. The main module is identical, just has a different sticker on it.

In my opinion you will see astro start drop the 4204 and 5204. The 2205 will be the entry level 2 way model and the brand new 2305 will replace the 4204 and 5204. I personally believe they are just running out the stock on the 4204/5204 as there is no advantage to them at all IMO.

Don't get me wrong, the 4204/5204 is a good quality unit, it's just that in my opinion the 2205 does a better job for less money.

kimagine
12-09-2006, 03:16 AM
5204 is the model you are referring too.

I prefer the 2205 over the 5204 for several reasons. The 2205 remote is a newer design so they fixed all the problems they had with the 5204/4204 remote. The main problem with the 4204/5204 remote is that the buttons are too easy to push so they easily get bumped in your pocket etc. The 2205 batteries also last longer. Also the 4204 only has 4 buttons and the 2205 has 5 so with the 4204 you have to use more combinations of buttons to do certain things such as shut it off etc.

If you get the alarm with the 2205 it functions exactly the same as the 5204. The main module is identical, just has a different sticker on it.

In my opinion you will see astro start drop the 4204 and 5204. The 2205 will be the entry level 2 way model and the brand new 2305 will replace the 4204 and 5204. I personally believe they are just running out the stock on the 4204/5204 as there is no advantage to them at all IMO.

Don't get me wrong, the 4204/5204 is a good quality unit, it's just that in my opinion the 2205 does a better job for less money.
Is the 2305 that good, have better functionality? Is it out on the market yet? I can probably get what's out there, just wondering what is there.
Also, what model will work better with the older model truck like mine?(I do want all the goodies)
Thanks,
Mark

mmcfd64
12-09-2006, 07:22 AM
i have a ultra start from the local shop. works great, great range. anyone fimilar w/that?

sheriff102
12-11-2006, 05:18 PM
go to www.astrostart.com on the home page there is a spot to find the closest dealer/install easy website (and I'm dumb as far as that stuff)

Cheers
sheriff102@comcast.net

Z71offroader
12-11-2006, 06:47 PM
i had a viper in my 03 z71 and it worked great. almost got a clifford. i miss my remote start, hopefully get one before next winter. ive heard good this with astro start and i was looking at there website, but couldnt tell if it comes with an alarm or if its an option.

jmg343
12-11-2006, 06:50 PM
alarm is an option IIRC. I got mine without an alarm.

mxrider801
12-11-2006, 06:56 PM
I ve got the Viper and the range is incredible. If I can see it I can start it, and sometimes when I can't:D . I just hit the button and wait for that familiar strait pipe sound. There are many different models with some crazy alarms and remotes. I haven't used the Astro Start but it sounds like a good bet as well.

kimagine
12-11-2006, 08:31 PM
I'm not sure which one was ordered but it retails for $300.00+(can't mention what it was had for....:eek:
It is a 2 way remote start with the alarm & keyless entry with alot of other goodies but the guy installing it decided to go with the led (main) remote due to me being very rough on my keys/keychain.
I believe it is the 2305 model. If that sounds right Max, let me know. I do know I won't be getting junk, just someone going directly to the source.;)

Mark

kimagine
12-11-2006, 10:05 PM
I'm not sure which one was ordered but it retails for $300.00+(can't mention what it was had for....:eek:
It is a 2 way remote start with the alarm & keyless entry with alot of other goodies but the guy installing it decided to go with the led (main) remote due to me being very rough on my keys/keychain.
I believe it is the 2305 model. If that sounds right Max, let me know. I do know I won't be getting junk, just someone going directly to the source.;)

Mark
Also as far as I know, it is a DEI model(and have heard that DEI bought Astrostart).:)

kimagine
12-14-2006, 10:44 PM
Just for clarification sake, DEI did buy out Astrostart/AstroFlex this pat May.:)

Mark

Max Power
12-14-2006, 11:09 PM
They bought out astrostart but astrostart still has it's unique products. If you can't beat them, buy them out. :D

woody240
12-14-2006, 11:23 PM
I was in buying some goodies for the new ride yesterday. Asked the guy to look up remote start. He claims it's not an option from GM. How could that be? They are available when you order a truck and they have them in the new Yukon. I had a Clifford in my Ferd but was hoping to keep it OEM on thus truck. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Tony

saskpuller
12-15-2006, 09:18 AM
I have talked to several people that have the factory GM remote start. They al say it's apiece of $#@#. It doesn't have any range and just not very reliable. Go aftermarket!

Max Power
12-15-2006, 09:52 AM
I was in buying some goodies for the new ride yesterday. Asked the guy to look up remote start. He claims it's not an option from GM. How could that be? They are available when you order a truck and they have them in the new Yukon. I had a Clifford in my Ferd but was hoping to keep it OEM on thus truck. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Tony

GM doesn't offer it on the 07 old body style trucks but they likely will on the new style 07 trucks when they come out.

Most people are not happy with the GM remote starts. I have upgraded MANY of them in G6's etc because the GM ones suck.

1lowdiesel
12-15-2006, 10:05 AM
you can't go wrong with DEI i've installed lots of em' and they almost never have a problem. i've had mine in for almost 2 years and all's well. also a buddy of mine installs them for Honda and Pontiac dealers here in NJ and they love em'

Max Power
12-15-2006, 10:18 AM
I wouldn't mind DEI stuff if they would get rid of the stupid external relays. By the time you add all your shock sensors and stuff you have a whole bunch of wiring all over the place. DEI has other issues too but that is the biggest for me.

erock53
12-15-2006, 10:52 AM
Just wanted to chime in another recommendation for the Asto start. I put one in the truck a few weeks back and absolutely love it. MaxPower provides great support with the install. I only had a few questions, as the included instructions were fairly complete, but he helped me through it and it started right up. The only thing I do not like about the remote is that I have to hold down the unlock button for 2 seconds to get the truck to unlock, as opposed to the factory remote that you just have to hit once. The install is not hard at all, but there are a bunch of wires to hook up. Just take your time and you will be fine

Max Power
12-15-2006, 11:07 AM
The reason they make you hold down the button for 3 seconds is because there is so much range. You wouldn't want to accidently start your truck or unlock it from 2000 feet away and not realize it.

kimagine
12-15-2006, 11:11 PM
The reason they make you hold down the button for 3 seconds is because there is so much range. You wouldn't want to accidently start your truck or unlock it from 2000 feet away and not realize it.
That's why you need the 2 way remotes.......:D :D

Mark;)

SixPak
12-15-2006, 11:41 PM
Just wanted to chime in another recommendation for the Asto start. I put one in the truck a few weeks back and absolutely love it. MaxPower provides great support with the install. I only had a few questions, as the included instructions were fairly complete, but he helped me through it and it started right up. The only thing I do not like about the remote is that I have to hold down the unlock button for 2 seconds to get the truck to unlock, as opposed to the factory remote that you just have to hit once. The install is not hard at all, but there are a bunch of wires to hook up. Just take your time and you will be fine

How do you identify the correct wires to splice when doing the installation? Are they all uniquely color coded?

Max Power
12-16-2006, 01:42 AM
Color coded with pictures ;)

jmg343
12-17-2006, 10:06 AM
Max Power's instruction provide excellent pictures with arrows pointing to exactly which wires you need and when. The instructions really are idiot proof. They tell you exactly which wire on the module goes to which wire on the truck, what color it is, and where it can be found. If you still arent sure if youve got the right wire, the pictures will give you 100% reassurance. I was nervous going into the install and it basically went smooth as can be. If you take your time you should be able to do it in half a day. Now that Ive done one I think I could do the next in 2-3 hours.

woody240
12-17-2006, 01:07 PM
Is there a turbo cool down and a long run feature that's theft proof? My old Clarion would run for a preset time after I turned off the key or I could leave the truck running w/o the key while I ran into the house or post store. If the brake pedal was pressed or if the truck was shifted into gear it would go shut off.

thejdman04
12-17-2006, 04:43 PM
Does anyone know if these remote starts will properly cycle the glow plugs first?

srode
12-17-2006, 05:55 PM
yes Astrostart has turbo cool down timer, waits till the glow plug light goes out (if you wire / program it that way) and has extended runtime that stops if the brake is pressed. You can't put a GM truck in gear without pressing the break. You can leave it running with the key out of the ignition if it's cold out while you run in to a C store etc, and lock the truck while gone.

58D MTP
12-17-2006, 06:18 PM
I have a Viper 591 on my truck and I think that the range is not near as good as advertised. When I am inside of a building, without straight line of sight, the truck will not get the signal to start 90% of the time with a good battery. There is always someone around me with an astro that can get theirs to start from the same room every time. I would buy an astro if I had to do it again.

sledog
01-23-2007, 06:38 PM
I've been using Autostart for the past 5 years and haven't had any issues with them at all. I had their two way remote start (AS-2300iTW-FM) installed in my 06' and it works great. The range is exceptional (2500 feet).

http://www1.autostart.ca/products/images/pdf_info/2-Cat_2300_A.pdf

http://www.autostart.ca/index.php

monki
02-05-2007, 06:53 AM
anything with a "FM transmitter". they are generally more expensive but have incredible range. i have a polar start and i work at a hospital and can start it 1500 feet away from the opposite side of the building.(concrete and steel walls!) i love it!

monki
02-08-2007, 02:34 AM
sorry mines an auto start

kfowler05
02-08-2007, 11:00 PM
I had a python on my all my diesels, including the one I just got ride of, and I havent had any problems.