A remote starter is radio controlled and connected to the car’s computer. The aim of this feature is to have the engine running for a given time for cooling or preheating the car before using it, to save time during winter times which requires defrosting the windshield.3
The installation of a remote starter device in a vehicle may come with the following benefits:4
However, use of a remote starter may also pose the following issues:8
Additional safety issues may include:
Installation of a remote starter may compromise a vehicle's warranty, unless done by a professional.
Some cities like Toronto forbid by law to do idling during more than one minute.14 In Toronto, this is forbidden by Toronto municipal code, chapter 517, related to idling of vehicles and boats15
In Australia, the remote start engine feature may be available, but its use might be subject to local legality of leaving a vehicle's engine running while not in use16
If the driver will be over 3 metres from the closest part of the vehicle, the driver must switch off the engine.
In Australia activation of the RES may require agreement of a stringent set of terms and conditions.18 Such terms and conditions may include sentence such as
the use of Remote Engine Start is governed by various laws. The use of this function might be unlawful.19
Valdes, Renee (26 July 2023). "Cars With Remote Start: A Must-Have Feature for Extreme Temperatures". Kelly Blue Book. Retrieved 29 October 2023. https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/remote-start-extreme-temperatures/ ↩
"Will Installing a Remote Starter Void My Warranty?". Boston.com. Retrieved 2015-12-23. https://www.boston.com/cars/news-and-reviews/2015/01/07/will-installing-a-remote-starter-void-my-warranty/ ↩
Is a Remote Car Starter Safe? Easyway Insurance, 22 December 2022 https://www.easywayinsurance.ca/insights/is-a-remote-car-starter-safe/ https://www.easywayinsurance.ca/insights/is-a-remote-car-starter-safe/ ↩
How Does a Remote Start System Work? Stephen Lilley https://itstillworks.com/remote-start-system-work-4608160.html https://itstillworks.com/remote-start-system-work-4608160.html ↩
Toronto municipal code, chapter 517, idling of vehicles and boats, 517-1 July 8, 2010https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/municode/1184_517.pdf ↩
BMW to debut remote engine start function, but is it legal to use? William Davis, 31 July 2020 https://www.drive.com.au/news/bmw-to-debut-remote-engine-start-function-but-is-it-legal-to-use/ https://www.drive.com.au/news/bmw-to-debut-remote-engine-start-function-but-is-it-legal-to-use/ ↩