Hohlraum

So it looks like Lexus has shoehorned remote start capabilities into their vehicles by using a lock button sequence on a standard fob. Which in turn limits you to the range of that fob.

Got a quote for remote start install from a local car audio/electronics place and they want a $1080 to install one with a 2500 foot range and 2 way confirmation. I know cars have definitely become more complex since I had one installed on my F-150 in 2003 but that seems pretty freakin over priced.

Thoughts?

Shibumi1

if they're adding in an alarm w remote start then this price is close. but there are cheaper options... ask about the idatalink rs firmware add-on xpresskit has the RSR version.. they add remote start for 1/3 the price... an i believe smart start can still be added to either


http://www.idatalink.com/rsfirmware

http://www.xpresskit.com/product.aspx?productid=461

InRBigness

that price is rediculous. I had a Viper 5501 plus the smart start module installed in my Rx450H for way less than a G-note. The regular system has a one mile 2 way radio but with smartstart I can use my smartphone from anywhere in the world.

Here is a good thread about car starters and options.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...rt-option.html

Hohlraum

No, It's just 2-way remote start. It's made by some company that has an add-on modules that allow you to use your smart phone to start it but we're not really interested in that functionality. Think it's going to be more trouble than it's worth.

Shibumi1

5501 is on the low end of the spectrum.. i was referring to a 5901 or 5902 (plus bypass mod and labor)... some shops do labor for a lot less... i for 1 stay w/my labor rates for 1 reason we offer lifetime warranty on all of our work... sure u can payless... but u get less.. in a 50/60k truck do u really want the work done by the lowest bidder? you bought a lexus for a reason.... quality is quality... and its not always cheap....

thats said: there are more inexpensive ways to add engine start as i states earlier... it all depends on your needs an the options u desire...

Big Mack

iTrader: (1)

While I agree with you that you get what you pay for generally, $1080 for a 2 way remote start on that vehicle is absolutely highway robbery. There is a very reputable shop near me that does fantastic work, all connections look factory, all work/shop parts are covered by a lifetime warranty, and even with all the bells and whistles, a 5901 is a shade under $ 700 - with modules and bypass. Add windows for $ 125. I think that is more than reasonable, especially since I know what the units cost. If they quoted me $ 1K for that, I'd walk, too. I suggest shopping around a bit more, OP, and get a look at the quality of their work. A good shop will have a portfolio of past work to show their skills and earn your business.

Big Mack

Hohlraum

These guys do high quality work. I've paid (over paid, imho) them to do a couple different jobs. I would never question their work at all, just their prices. I'll shop around and see if there are any other reputable shops in town. If not we'll just live without it.

Shibumi1

did u get a written estimate of the charges? because i know of shops (who shall remain nameless) that only sell products at full blown retail (sometimes higher because of their client base).... this will end the argument on high or low prices

Hohlraum

They charge full retail for stuff. They always have. Also they have the install listed as being 8.25 hrs of work @ $70/hr. That is what is really jacking up the price.

mkorsu

No shop with any clout should quote 8.25 hours for the job. Let alone actually charging "by the hour". That would be a $100-$200 install only cost in my area.

Shibumi1

agreed.. should be a flat rate for install.. as for the time i always estimate high but 8hrs is ridiculous......

cyclebob

Lexus RES + unlimited rang remote start w smartphone enabled is about $600 installed at the Lexus dealer in a 2013 RX350 FSport..

Hohlraum

Awesome. Thanks for the heads up. Gunna check into pricing. My wife would love that for a birthday gift for her rx350.