How Much Does a Remote Starter Cost? (2023 Update)

Remote starters are an excellent upgrade for any vehicle, but how much does a remote starter cost? If you’re looking for a quality system, it can take time to understand the true cost of the hardware and labor, but we’re here to help solve that mystery for you.

You’re tired of sitting in an ice box every morning on your commute, so you decide to shop for a remote start system to heat up your vehicle. Naturally, you’ll hop on Google or Amazon and search “remote starter.” Here’s what you’ll find:

Going off these results, you’ll see prices anywhere from $50 to $100.

However, there are two CRUCIAL flaws with these results:

• These prices do NOT include installation.
• They do not include required hardware for integrating with your vehicle’s starter.
• Most remote starters sold online are NOT under warranty.

Either of these reasons should sway you away from buying one of these systems. Unless you are a certified 12-volt automotive electrician, you shouldn’t attempt to install a remote starter on your own. You can risk hurting yourself, your vehicle, and your wallet in case repairs to either are necessary. Instead, visit a professional retailer who understands remote starts and is comfortably installing the brand of your choice.

So how much will a retailer charge me for remote start?

As mentioned above, the amount retailers charge is primarily based on the year, make, and model of your vehicle. The average Compustar remote start installers offer systems plus installation for around $319.99-$449.99. Several things factor into this cost.

Different vehicles use different mechanisms for starting the engine. A professional installer will understand how to integrate a remote start system with these mechanisms to ensure the car remote starts safely and securely. It’s essential to contact your local retailer before visiting the store to ensure they can install a remote starter onto your specific vehicle. If you contact one retailer and they say “No,” don’t worry! Try another retailer, as retailers often have varying levels of comfort with different vehicles.

In select regions of the U.S.A., you can now purchase Compustar remote starters online with installation. Click here to learn more >

I found a Groupon online for a $199.99 remote starter WITH installation. Is this legit?

The short answer is: probably. Online deals for remote start systems with installation often advertise a starting price. You may incur some additional costs for any of the following:

• Extended-range remotes
• Bypass integration modules (required for most newer vehicles)
• Luxury or certain vehicle makes
• Manual-transmission vehicles
• Keyless entry or trunk-pop functionality

The key is to read the promotions’ fine print and communicate proactively with your retailer. Most of the time, vendors aren’t trying to rip customers off, and there’s generally a simple explanation for any increased costs – some installs are more complex than others.

Compustar’s 4 Steps to buying a remote starter:

Regardless of what brand of remote starter you’d like for your vehicle, our team at Compustar suggests following these steps when purchasing a system.

1. Use an Authorized Dealer Search Tool to find professional retailers & installers near you.
2. Contact your retailer in advance to check your vehicle’s compatibility as well as the shop’s availability.
3. Ask about upgrading your remote range or adding 2-way to your remote starter.
4. Always make sure you purchase and install your remote starter at the same location.

If you’re interested in a Compustar system, try going through our Compustar System Builder to find the best system for your needs.