Can a car remote start system mess up your car?

Question

I have had a car remote start system for over 2 years now. Lately, when I turn it on, it starts half way and then turns off. Seconds later, however, it starts up fine. Sometimes on the third time but no more. I just wanted to know if there is any chance my car can get messed up since it starts half way and then shuts off. I have a 1999 subaru legacy gt limited edition 2.5. thanks

Answer 1

wow, i am blown away by the people that think car starters cause vehicle to fail, all a car starter does is do what you do with the key......by remote. yes they are wired into a car and that means splicing into wires but i have never see a car blow up because of one. if the car is starting and shutting off, then trying again and starting it could be cause to the wrong "tach" setting, this is a signal that tells the remote starter that the car is running at the right RPM. it will monitor that wire during the entire remote start run time, if it is inatequate it will do what you discribed. i suggest to take it to the installer and have him take a look. make note of when it does this, such as if it is only in the morning when the car is cold, starts fine when the car is warm, ect.
i've been doing remote starters for a long time, i always solder the connections i make, and use quality shop products. to answer "can my car get messed up" it depends on the install, if the installer used "t-tapps" or "scoth-locks" (those are cheap, un-reliable connectors) then i would have it installed properly.
the only thing i have seen from a remote starter turning off and on without starting a car is a car that has flooded itself, and that was a ford........they do that with the key anyways.
hope i could help.

car startes are a convenience, and like any electrical part, weather for your home, car, office whatever, it can fail. nothing is bulletproof. but in most cases re-programming is a simple fix, and despite what others have said in answer to your question, don't be swayed from the conveinence.........i love mine!
and so you know i've been installing 12 volt for 10 years, and went to school for it, so it's not just a blind answer.

Answer 2

Its possible that the timing can get screwed up.

If the car has troubles starting without the remote, you might want to look into having the starter checked. If its a 99 and the starter hasnt ever been replaced you can bet its nearing the end of its life.

If it starts just fine with a key, and only has trouble with the remote, its time to have that system checked. Remote starters, especially after market ones, dont have a very long life span, most are only covered for a year by the manufacturer. Either way they just dont last long. If its working properly, the wires may be shorting out and need replaced.

Just have it looked at.

I cant imagine it seizing the engine, or ruining the vehicle unless it were seriously malfunctioning. But i can see the timming getting thrown from it not working properly.

Answer 3

I have remote start on a 2000 Dodge Intrepid. I haven't had any problems with it and it has been installed for about four years.

As with anything mechanical and electrical, it is subject to failure. This would be not different. Not really sure what you mean by "starts half way". If it just cranks a few times and doesn't start, then it is a problem with your car (i.e. starter, battery, etc.)

Answer 4

If your car start is a Viper Brand, take it back to your installer and have them redo the install under warranty.

Many of the wiring diagrams for Viper units were incorrect and eventually cause the unit to malfunction. The installer should have no problem redoing the install.

My mom had one installed 3 years ago, and started haveing similar problems about 3 months ago, with total failure in December. Her installer redid the work this week. Works perfectly now.

Answer 5

i mechanic for a living,,and all you probably need is a good tune up,,the remote starter is doing its job,,the car just isn't staying running,,you might want to check and see if its in need of a good tune up,,the only thing i have ever seen a remote starter do is disable the car so it would,nt start,,this happens when the remote part of it burns out,,other than that ,its probably just your car that needs some attention to it,,good luck hope this help,s.

Answer 6

Mest Up Cars

Answer 7

Sounds like your remote starter has some issues. Possibly a loose connection. Take it back to the place you had it installed, they will be able to determine the problem in no time.


M

Answer 8

1

Answer 9

I agree with dodgeman -however you should have your remote starter checked out to see if its shorting out or its programming may be malfunctioning.

Answer 10

You might just need to get your car tuned-up. I've never heard of such matters that would damage your vehicle.