So I want to add a remote start on my 2012 RX. I know some have factory equipped remote start. I have the base model no nav, no any extras. I have seen some plug-and-play systems online at around $250. Anyone here who has done this that can point me in the right direction as to which one to buy ?

 

I am not aware of any Factory remote start, other than one through the Lexus assist app for vehicles that have that technology and paying Lexus for its subscription.

There are after market and dealer installed options. I bet they are convenient [specially for cold climate areas], but I would suggest to stay away from them as they require bypassing immobilizer. But that is just my suggestion.

Salim

 

The Lexus Accessory "RES" and "RES+ (plus)" were port or dealer installed Remote Engine Start systems
available for the 2010 - 2016 Lexus models built prior to the current Lexus App systems.
The RES was $500 and enabled the "Three Press and Hold Third" key fob cadence.
The RES+ was $1000 and added a phone app Remote Start that required a subscription after the initial 12 month trial.
The original 2G connection for RES+ was upgraded for free to 3G five years ago but has since been "sunset".
Both RES and RES+ continue to function from the key fob for free.

As with all the Lexus key fob dependent systems the range of the fob is the Achilles Heel,
published as '80 it is not as useful as we might have wished. The start sequence itself is finicky as well.

Installation of an aftermarket RS is not complicated or particularly expensive as with some German cars.
Look into spending a bit extra for the "two-way" feature. A One Way RS simply sends the signal and (hopefully)
the car receives the signal and starts. The Two Way feature will send a signal back to the (1/4 mile away, out of sight)
fob and it will trill the acknowledgement.

 

If you go with an aftermarket kit, try to find one that doesn't require your key fob for the immobilizer bypass.

Some cheap immobilizer bypass modules require you to leave the key in the module, while others just copy the key information.

 

Bell Lexus shows remote start for your vehicle for around 86 bucks, PT39848112, I used the 1st digit of VIN as a J, I think the 2 VIN is still applicable, you may just need to register/activate it with techstream. I bought RES for my 2014 ES350, they sent me the instructions and the kit, I called to verify fitment on my car, I have techstream.

 

The kit I described requires smart key.