Jeep Wranglers have a useful function called remote start. Instead of sitting in scorching seats in the summer, you may start your Jeep remotely to turn on the air conditioning before getting in. The following are some of the top remote start kits on the market, which make starting your vehicle a breeze while also providing security and other benefits.
What is a Remote Start Kit, and How Does a Remote Start Work?
A remote starting system allows the driver to start the vehicles without having to turn the key in the ignition. With activation ranges of over a mile, several remote starters can also activate the air conditioning, heated seats, and vented seats. An automatic transmission is required to implement a remote starting system.
Pushing the start button three times in a season (typically) activates a remote start. By locking the doors, flashing the turn signal, and honking the horn, the car communicates that the engine has started. The automobile will operate for around 15 minutes before shutting off, or until your timeout period expires. You’ll have to start your vehicle after two timeouts manually.
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What Should I Look for When Buying a Remote Start for My Jeep Wrangler?
Below are some features you should look for when buying a remote start.
Design
Consider the general design first. Look for a viewable, clear, or bright display on the key fob, and make sure it’s small enough to fit on your keychain. Simple designs are usually more user-friendly and easier to set up. A remote start with a high installation cost should be avoided in favor of a device that you can set up yourself.
Range
Also, check for a long-range remote starting system. A higher powerful wireless power signal will be found in a long-range remote start. When the automobile is behind a wall or obstruction, the signals are stronger, making the system more dependable.
Compatibility
While most remote starts are universal, you should double-check that the device works with your engine sensors. 2-way systems are common in newer automobiles, however, older vehicles may not be able to connect with the remote start.
Extra Features
The majority of remote starters have a door unlock capability, however, some offer additional capabilities. To avoid theft, many manufacturers place a premium on security. Onboard temperature control and trunk release may also be desirable. Check the pricing first because certain modules may be much more expensive than the base features.
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Review of the Best Remote Starts for Jeep Wrangler
We have compiled a handful of remote starts for Jeep Wrangler vehicles to determine the best available products.
1. Best Overall: MPC Remote Start
The MPC Remote Start is simple to set up and requires only a few components. The basic functions are really valuable, and the technical assistance is excellent. Some buyers thought the choice was too limited. The extra parts and monthly subscription cost more money to extend the range.
Because of its simplicity, this product stands out. With a 15-minute installation, you can plug it in and start using it. You can easily personalize it by adding features like a 1- or 5-button remote control and a smartphone module to expand the range.
You must press the lock button on your keys three times to utilize the remote start. A separate controller isn’t required, although you can have one if you wish. The MPC is considerably easier to use than other remote starters because of its plug-and-play capabilities.
The MPC Remote Start excels in terms of ease of installation and use. While it is expensive, you can customize it to meet your specific needs, but the basic capabilities make it a cost-effective option to begin utilizing a remote start.
Pros
- Lets you warm or cool your car
- Can only drive the vehicle with the key in the ignition for safety
- Uses existing remotes to start the car, so you don’t need extra key fobs
- Comes with pre-loaded firmware, all required parts, and a T-harness for easy installation
- Can customize with smartphone module, 1-button remotes, or 5-button remotes to extend the range
Cons
- Additional features are costly
- Some buyers find the range too small
2. Runner-up: Start-X Remote Starter Kit 13
The installation is simple and just takes a few minutes. You won’t need a second key fob, and the main product is quite inexpensive. Many people don’t see the need in upgrading because the Start-X Remote Starter Kit 13 works fine without the extra modules.
Another easily installed remote start is the Start-X. There aren’t many components required, and you may customize it to increase the range to over a mile. During the installation procedure, customer service is helpful, and the system is covered by a warranty. It’s one of the most cost-effective remote starters for Jeep Wranglers.
Its compatibility with the Jeep Wrangler 2007-2018 is something we like. However, the instructions vary by year, and the provided advice does not take into account each model. Fortunately, there are several installation tutorials available on YouTube.
The Start-X Remote Starter Kit 13 takes less than 30 minutes to install if you want a quick and easy remote start. To utilize the base product, you’ll require a factory keyless system; otherwise, you’ll need to buy an add-on module.
Pros
- Need the key in the ignition to drive
- Lets you start your vehicle from your factory remote
- T-harness and few parts allow for a quick installation
- Can purchase a module to turn it on from your cell phone
- Additional two-way long-range button remotes can extend the range to over a mile
Cons
- The instructions lack the necessary detail
- Doesn’t always detect the key in the ignition
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3. Best for the Money: Fortin EVO-CHRT5
The vendor determines the product’s quality. Some products provide instructions, while others do not. Some are flashed out of the box, while others require the use of a flash kit. You can, however, easily install it if you have some basic electrical expertise. It is compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including Jeep Wranglers. The main device is inexpensive, but you’ll almost certainly need to acquire additional modules.
The Fortin EVO-CHRT5 stands out to us because of its low cost and ease of use, as well as its compatibility with a wide range of vehicles. With little wire manipulation, you can use the factory remote to easily install it. Depending on the vendor you select, you may need to purchase a flash tool, and certain cars require extra modules.
Customer service is fast to reply and is available to assist with the purchase and set-up. Although not all items come with instructions, there are several YouTube tutorials available to assist. It isn’t the finest remote starting system, but it should suffice if correctly installed.
If you are on a budget, consider the Fortin EVO-CHRT5. While you may need to make additional purchases, the base model may be a cheap way to have a remote start. Make sure you check the validity of the vendor first to avoid some issues.
Pros
- Excellent customer service
- Great value for the low cost
- T-harness makes it relatively easy to install
- Nearly universal use with the right modules
- Lets you start by clicking the lock button three times
Cons
- Requires some wiring knowledge
- May need to purchase additional parts
4. MOPAR Remote Start Kit
The MOPAR Remote Start Kit comes with everything you need to get started. You’ll receive a remote start key fob as well as all of the necessary installation parts. If you don’t have any experience with vehicles, though, you should get an expert to install them. Nonetheless, it is compatible with a wide range of Jeep Wranglers.
Despite being one of the more expensive alternatives, this Remote Start Kit comes with everything you need. It does, however, have a few additional needs than many other systems. To install the MOPAR, your vehicle must have an automatic gearbox, remote keyless entry, and a sentry-key theft-deterrent system.
Despite the difficult setup and system requirements, this device seamlessly connects with the Jeep and works with the electronic security key. The MOPAR Remote Start Kit isn’t the finest value on this list, but it’ll serve your compatible vehicle’s needs.
If you have a 13-14 Wrangler JK, the MOPAR Remote Start Kit makes for a decent system. It costs more and is challenging to install than products that perform similarly. While it is a high-quality system, one of the above options will meet your needs for less.
Pros
- The range reaches 300 feet
- Fits Jeep Wrangler 2013-2018 models
- Comes with all parts needed to install with replacements
- Requires activation at a Jeep Dealership to ensure it works
- Has two key fobs that you need to cut to your vehicle’s size
Cons
- One of the pricier options
- More complex installation than most
5. Honorable Mention: Start-X Remote Starter Kit C6A
The Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator 2018-2021 Start-X Remote Starter Kit C6A is a high-quality system. You won’t need any additional modules, and installation will take less time. The flashing procedure is the most difficult since the instructions skipped stages when it comes to programming. Customer service, on the other hand, will assist you if you run into any problems.
This Jeep Wrangler-specific plug-and-play remote start is cost-effective, creative, and particularly developed for Jeep Wranglers. Customer service is quick to reply, and you can purchase affordable purchasing protection insurance if the device malfunctions. You can obtain a separate fob by purchasing a module, or you may use your normal key.
While no wires will need to be cut or spliced, your Jeep will require some disassembly. Programming the remote start also requires technical computer knowledge. It requires a Windows PC with Internet Explorer installed. Other browsers are unable to flash the system.
For Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators, the Start-X Remote Starter Kit C6A is an affordable system. Many people have uploaded more explicit instructions on YouTube, but the customer service can also help with a home set-up.
Pros
- Excellent customer service
- Great value for its price point
- Opportunity to expand the system with modules
- Plug-and-play installation so you won’t have to cut any wires
- Lets you activate the remote start by pressing lock three times
Cons
- Requires a PC that runs Internet Explorer to flash
- Instructions a bit unclear for installation and programming
Common Remote Start for Jeep Wrangler Issues
A faulty hood pin switch or sensor is the most common problem. It protects someone working on the vehicle from damage by preventing the engine from starting with the hood up. Most technicians can fasten or replace the hood pin if it is missing.
The range of many remote starters is determined by the manufacturer’s key fob. The range of a remote starting system reduces as the batteries deteriorate, so make sure your batteries are up to date before installing one.
If you just use remote start to warm up your car during the winter, you should test it frequently throughout the year to ensure it works.
Also, have a look at the modules. To start the engine, the data modules that control the remote start may need to be reprogrammed. The data seldom vanishes, but if it does, the problem is easily remedied. In valet mode, you can’t start the car remotely, but you can get in without keys. To modify the settings, go to the instructions.
The reason that the remote start does not function in some Jeep Wranglers is shown in the instrument cluster until the ignition is turned on. If the door, hood, or swing gate is open, the gasoline is low, you’ve timed out, or you’ve deactivated the remote start, the remote starter system may cancel itself. Check sure your car’s engine is running if it starts and then shuts off.
Conclusion:
A remote start for your Jeep Wrangler is a wonderful purchase. A remote start can provide you additional control over your car’s temperature and safety features. For the greatest experience, seek for a product that is well-designed, configurable, and simple to install.
People Also Ask
Below we have gathered a few frequently asked questions concerning the best remote starts for Jeep Wranglers.
Jeep Wranglers do not come with a remote start, but you can install them relatively quickly. Choosing one of the plug-and-play options is best for those with less auto mechanic experience.
You can quickly install many remote starter systems without help, even for those with little technical experience. If you choose a more challenging option, the installation can cost between $80 and $150. Choosing a plug and play system should prevent you from spending this because of their simplistic installation process.
Some remote starts come with smartphone modules that you can purchase separately. These allow you to control the remote start for your Jeep from an app. They can improve the range of your remote start and the signal strength compared to your factory key. However, they do cost significantly more than the base system.
Remote starts for Jeep Wranglers can cost anywhere between $50 and $300. Usually, those on the lower end require extra parts, while the more expensive ones have additional modules. Paying for more modules to increase the range or have a separate key fob may increase the price beyond this range.
Some remote starts let you control the timeout time. The standard lengths are 12, 15, 24, and 60 minutes before timing out. You can manually program the desired time when programming the system. The exact method to do so depends on the specific product you purchased.
Not always. Many require minor tools and manipulation to your car to install. For easy set-up, look for remote starts with a T-harness. The T-harness eliminates the need to cut or splice the wires, making it a much simpler process.
Most modern manual cars do not allow for a remote starter. Furthermore, the remote start may not work with an open door, hood, or swing gate, low fuel, or after two consecutive timeouts. Check that your vehicle is compatible with your remote start and that you installed it correctly.
Most of the time, your car doors lock upon activating the remote start to prevent theft. You will have to press the unlock button on your remote keyless entry transmitter to disable the alarm system and enter your Wrangler.