How much does it cost to do remote start?
Remote-start costs depend on whether you choose an aftermarket install, a factory option, or a smartphone-enabled service. Typical ranges are $200–$700 for a professional aftermarket kit, or $350–$1,000 for a dealer-installed factory remote start, with potential monthly app fees of about $5–$15 where you use a brand’s remote-start app.
Prices vary by vehicle, installation difficulty, and whether you’re paying for hardware alone or including labor. Some higher-trim models include remote start as part of the package, while others require additional security modules to bypass immobilizers. Smartphone-integrated options can add ongoing costs but offer features such as climate preconditioning and remote locking/unlocking, which may influence overall value for the buyer.
Paths to remote start
Here are the main pathways people consider to add remote-start capability to a vehicle:
- Aftermarket remote-start kit (DIY): You buy the kit and install it yourself.
- Aftermarket kit installed by a professional: Hardware plus labor from an independent shop or dealership service center.
- Dealer-installed, factory-style remote start (OEM option): The option is added through the manufacturer’s parts system, often with integration to the vehicle’s computer.
- OEM remote start included with higher-trim models or packages: Some trims include remote start as standard or as part of a feature bundle.
- Brand app/remote-start service: Remote start controlled via the carmaker’s app, sometimes with ongoing subscription or trial periods.
Choosing among these paths depends on budget, desired features, and how much you value warranty protection and professional installation reliability.
Cost ranges by pathway
Breakdown of typical price bands you can expect by pathway as of 2025:
- DIY aftermarket kit: roughly $20–$150 for the hardware, depending on features and brand.
- Professional installation of an aftermarket kit: $100–$350 for labor, with total installed typically around $200–$550 depending on the vehicle and complexity.
- Premium or complex aftermarket installations: $400–$700 or more for high-end systems on certain vehicles.
- Dealer-installed factory remote start: $350–$1,000, influenced by vehicle model, dealer pricing, and regional labor rates.
- Brand app/remote-start service: often included for a limited trial with purchase; after that, about $5–$15 per month in many cases.
Costs can vary by region, vehicle compatibility, and the installer’s labor rate. Always obtain a written quote that itemizes hardware, labor, and any additional security modules required by your car.
What to consider before installation
Beyond sticker price, shoppers should weigh compatibility, warranty implications, and convenience:
- Vehicle compatibility and immobilizer considerations: Some cars require specialized bypass modules, and not all models are equally easy to retrofit.
- Warranty and insurance: Aftermarket installations can affect warranty coverage or insurance premiums; verify with the dealer and your insurer.
- Installation quality and support: Professional installation reduces risk of electrical issues and ensures long-term reliability; check installer reputation and warranty on the work.
These factors help ensure you choose a solution that matches your needs without surprises down the line.
Summary
Remote start comes in several flavors, with price ranges that reflect hardware, labor, and whether you’re opting for an aftermarket system or a factory-installed feature. DIY kits are the cheapest entry point, professional aftermarket installations add cost but flexibility, and dealer-installed or trim-included OEM options tend to be the most expensive upfront but offer stronger integration and warranties. Smartphone app services can add ongoing monthly costs but bring convenient control from anywhere. Always compare quotes, verify vehicle compatibility, and consider long-term value when budgeting for remote start.
