A popular question at Sweet Sounds is: Can my remote start be removed and installed in another vehicle?
The Short Answer Is Yes, It Can – But With Many Qualifications.
Before 2015, we used to recommend removing and reinstalling higher-end systems, but leaving entry-level systems in the cars in which they were installed. As of 2015, we’ve changed our recommendation, based on several very important factors. We no longer suggest removing and reinstalling remote start systems in most circumstances.
First and most importantly, we want you to have the most-reliable hardware available, and a system that was designed and manufactured XX number of years ago is no longer the most-reliable hardware available. Our manufacturers are constantly taking every bit of knowledge that they gain over the years to continually improve their products. We want the best for you.
Secondly, the warranty doesn’t transfer from one vehicle to another, and we want you to be covered, just in case you ever need a warranty claim.
Third, this saves you time because you no longer need to make a trip to have the system removed. It also saves you money, because you aren’t paying to have the system removed.
Fourth, when we install a system, we fit the entire system into the car where it is being installed. We cut the wiring to length; sometimes we remove wiring pins from harnesses, and we fasten the unit securely into place. We can’t reuse that old harness, and sometimes replacement harnesses are no longer available.
Fifth, with new technology in the marketplace, some of the systems we install are vehicle-specific solutions that simply cannot be transferred from one vehicle to another.
When Should A Remote Start System Be Removed?
Now, when should a remote start system be removed? I’ll give you an example. Let’s say you leased a brand-new Volkswagen Jetta that you picked up at the local dealership. When we go to install a remote car starter in that car, you will have to bring along all the keys/fobs for the car. We will need to install one of those keys with the remote car starter system (please note, there are not many vehicles in which this happens).
When the lease ends, the dealer will expect you to turn in all the keys/fobs. That would be a perfect example of a time when we should get back into the vehicle to remove the remote start, but everything listed above still applies, and some parts in the Jetta will not be reusable in a new vehicle.
For more information on removing and reinstall your remote starter purchased at Sweet Sounds in Mankato, stop by our store or contact us here.
Is it possible to take a remote car starter from a Subaru and put it into a Chevy equinox? We are junking the Subaru and I would like to have the remote car starter. It’s a 2008 Subaru Legacy and I have a 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. Would it work??
Most likely it is possible but it’s not necessarily the better or best choice. If you’re in our area and we did the original installation, please give us a call and we can discuss options after we determine what equipment is in the Subaru. If you’re not from the area, I suggest contacting a reputable dealer in your area for assistance.
Just bought a remote starter as a gift in December. Had it installed. Car died in February. More expensive to fix then replace. Can I remove the starter myself from the old car? (2008 Subaru Impreza)Is it hard to do?
I’d hate to spend $350 for nothing.
Thanks
Sorry for the delayed reply. Not sure why this didn’t show up earlier. Regarding removal, technically yes, but there are many caveats to that answer and professional removal is almost always recommended.