The Best Remote Car Starters

The best remote car starters

By Ronan Glon March 9, 2021

If you live in a part of the country where cold weather, snow, and ice is common, a remote car starter is one of the best gifts you can give to a loved one or yourself. A remote car starter starts your car from a distance, meaning you never have to enter a cold car again.

Contents

Directed Electronics Python 4806P
Clifford 470.6X
Avital 4103LX
Viper 5706V
Audiovox APS57Z

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is the best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters, in a range of prices and different features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional to install.

Directed Electronics Python 4806P

Range: 1 mile
Paging: Two-way communication
Price: $160

The Python 4806P is a top-shelf remote car starter with a number of segment-leading features, but it remains well within the realm of affordability. Highlights include two-way communication, a full mile of starter range, and four auxiliary outputs for add-on devices. To use the SmartStart smartphone app, you can equip Python’s DSM200 or DSM250 modules.

A mile of range may sound like complete overkill, but as a general rule, a remote starter with a longer range also means one with strong transmitter power. If you want to start your car from within a building or through a wall, you’ll need a high-powered unit. Choosing a starter with a tiny range, by comparison, probably means you’ll need a clear shot at your vehicle to start it.

Clifford 470.6X

Range: 1 mile
Paging: Two-way communication
Price: $169

remote starter adds a few nifty features to the Python’s robust list. A major highlight of the Clifford unit is its SuperCode security encryption aimed at thwarting would-be hackers. This is a common concern for remote starter shoppers, and one that’s usually only addressed by the more expensive units.

Other key features include an LCD screen that shows vehicle status and confirm commands, two-way communication, a mile of range, the SmartStart smartphone app, four auxiliary channels, valet mode, panic mode, and vehicle temperature monitoring. If there’s one thing the Clifford system lacks, it’s a proper car alarm. Fortunately, this is something you can add with compatible modules.

Avital 4103LX

Range: 1,200 feet
Paging: One-way communication
Price: $41

If you’re keen on a remote car starter, but the $100 or $200 range of products is too rich for your blood, check out the Avital 4103LX. Supremely affordable yet rich in features, the Avital system boasts two remotes, keyless entry, a dedicated trunk release, 1,200 feet of range, and a single auxiliary hookup. Think of this more as a replacement for your standard remote entry system, but with an upgrade for remote ignition.

At this price point, you’ll have to make do without a smartphone app, an LCD, or vehicle monitoring systems, but sometimes functional is better than fancy.

Viper 5706V

Range: 1 mile
Paging: Two-way communication
Price: $260

Viper has become the default aftermarket system for those looking to upgrade a car’s security or remote-activated functions. The company’s esteemed reputation means you’ll have to fork over a chunk of change for its latest remote starter system, but it also means original equipment manufacturer-quality form and function.

The Responder LC3 is Viper’s third-generation transmitter. It includes a mile of range, two-way communication, a rechargeable remote, valet mode, in-car vehicle temperature display, the SmartStart app, and dual car integration (you can use one remote for two cars). This version has a 20% bigger LED display than its predecessors, so you can’t miss the new Priority icons. The in-vehicle temperature display lets you know what to expect inside the car before you even leave the house. You can also extend your car’s runtime to warm up or cool down the cabin based on the temperature readings. The extended runtime feature gives you a three-minute warning before shutting off, should you turn it on and forget.

AMAZON

Audiovox APS57Z

Range: 1,500 feet
Paging: One-way communication
Price: $58

The Audiovox model is perfect if you’re looking for something budget-friendly, but you don’t want to skip the essentials. Most drivers won’t need much more than a range of 1,500 feet and one-way communication to get your car started and heating up. The remote has only three buttons, so use is simple and straightforward.

This particular model is also reliable and long-lasting. Drivers can program the remote to prompt several processes, including starting the engine, opening the trunk, locking and unlocking the car, and more. All you have to do is stand within range. The Audiovox works with hybrid and fuel-run vehicles and can sync with your Smartphone through CarLink.