Remote starters

I need one for my 2000 Cherokee. I hate getting into a cold car here in MN.

Best Buy have a couple to choose from for ~$150. This is supposed to cover "basic installation". When pressed, their estimate for additional installation costs was $250-300. Then I tried another branch and they said $170. Ridiculous.

Does anyone have experience of installing these things? I can't believe it is that difficult. I would describe myself as a semi-competent auto electician - plenty of experience of fitting radios and alarm systems. Bit nervous about touching wires related to the ignition, but if I had some good instructions, then maybe.

Best Buy reckon the Jeep is a "nightmare" installation. Can anyone opine on this?

TIA

Mat

Reply to
Mat and Suzy
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I don't have specific experience on Jeep products. I am a GM dealer tech, and I can tell you that we remove a multitude of these things, for a variety of problems. Foremost, they tap into the ignition circuits with scotch locks and destroy the harness. Secondly, any security system that is factory installed has to pass through this aftermarket black box to make the car start, and the tiniest amount of voltage drop will cause the car to not start at all. I strongly recommend against the installation of these things. I live in New England, I know it is cold. Suck it up, go out and start your car in the driveway, come back in and enjoy a cup of joe, and go to your car in 15 minutes with the heat blowin.

Jerry

Reply to
belowme

Mat and Suzy did pass the time by typing:

For 93 - 99 I could help, but they changed too much in the WJ (2000-)

I use a Clifford system (fairly expensive but includes rollup windows, remote start, and alarm) The newer ones also feature feedback so the vehicle can page you. Professional installation is highly recommended.

At any rate, a remote start will splice into the harness in several locations. Any connections made to the start/run power leads need to be soldered or properly crimped. Don't use the blue scotchlock/taps, they will not handle the power draw.

Your largest problem will be bypassing the vehicles built-in security system and smart/passkey if you have it.

One thing to remember. When a licensed dealer installs the alarm you get the full warrantee. With the Clifford the warrantee went from 5year to 30day if the installer doesn't do the work.

Reply to
DougW

Best buy sells warranties, and oh sometimes they sell electronics. If you ask what that $250 includes, it'll include all the add on stuff they want you to buy.... upgraded remote starter, warranty, Rewards program, etc.... It's a sales technique call 'softening the blow'. Let you know ahead of time how much it's going to cost, that way it's easier to upsell you more (higher margin) stuff. (higher margin = bigger spiff) Trick is to say no to upselling. Or, go to a local Stereo place that will sell you and install it for $150 if you feel uncomfortable saying no to the folks at Best Buy.

-Mark

_____ ,[_____],¯|\ -©|||||||©--|¯¯|¯¯| (_( ¯¯¯ (_()¯¯ (_() '89 YJ

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Mark12211

Reply to
FrankW

When I was 16 and living in Alaska, I had a '74 VW bug. I developed a system that worked great using a portable heater and a plant timer. I had an extension cord out to my bug running the heater. I set the timer to go off an hour before I needed to get in the car. It was nice and toasty when I got in and the snow was completely melted off all the windows.

Nathan

98 XJ

gloves help

Reply to
nathan

Go to bulldogsecurity.com. The sell remote starters, along with T-harnesses (no splicing) for almost every application imaginable. I've installed 2 of their systems, with no complaints. Call their tech guys to make sure you don't need the security bypass module.

Clem

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Clem albright

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L.W.(ßill)

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mic canic

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mic canic

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