Remote auto start for a car: how to install automatic car engine start, how it works and how to use it

01/25/2022 1,750 Electrical

Author: Victor

Auto start for a car is a function with which the consumer has the opportunity to start the car engine while being at a distance. But to implement this option, the vehicle must be equipped with a special device - a module.

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What is an engine autostart unit?

The remote automatic start system on a car operates from a control device. The latter is located in the car interior behind the control panel or in the engine compartment. By design, such a module is a device made in a small plastic or metal case. Inside it there is a control board and several relays. The module itself is connected to the vehicle’s standard on-board network using a separate cable included in the kit.

Control methods

Systems that allow starting remotely and warming up the machine can operate in two modes:

remotely by manual command;
automatically.

You can start the engine manually in winter or summer by sending a command. The power unit is turned on by pressing a key located on the control key fob. The driver can also turn on the engine using a special command sent from the phone. If a key fob is used, the remote start capability is usually limited by its range. On average it ranges from three hundred to five hundred meters.

An internal combustion engine running on diesel or gasoline can be started automatically. In this case, the distance between the car owner with the remote control and the vehicle does not matter. The function is configured in advance by the driver so that the power unit starts under certain conditions.

Eg:

at the specified time;
at a specific interval, for example, hourly;
in accordance with the ambient temperature;
according to the same parameter, only motor oil or antifreeze;
when the voltage in the vehicle’s on-board network decreases;
Some autostart units allow you to start based on the air temperature in the cabin.

Types of GSM car alarms

Car alarms with GSM can transmit data about intrusion into the car using the following methods:

SMS messages are sent to the phone every time the central locking status changes;
An automatic call is sent to the phone if there is any sign of the lock being broken;
In two ways at once - this helps to draw the driver’s attention to the signals that the smartphone gives him.

Principle of operation

Features of the functioning of the installed unit on a car with a manual or automatic transmission:

A command is sent to the control module to start the power unit. If an alarm is installed on the vehicle, then it, together with the engine blocking, is turned off. The starter mechanism begins to rotate.
If the power unit starts, the parking lights or light alarm of the car will begin to blink. The diode indicator on the control panel may blink.
Some systems, after starting the internal combustion engine, can independently monitor the parameters of the speed controller. It is possible to monitor the pressure of the engine fluid or the voltage in the machine's electrical network.
When the power unit starts up, the starter unit turns off automatically.
If the engine does not start, the module will make several attempts to start it. A certain interval will be observed between turning the starter mechanism. With each subsequent attempt, the latter will spin for a longer duration.
More advanced modules can independently find the possible reason why the power unit could not start.

The “MagicSystemsOfficial” channel talked about the operating principle of Agent MS GSM devices.

Difficulties in programming an additional chip

The main difficulty lies in coordinating the information of the chip key and the corresponding control unit, since each car is equipped with a strictly individual security code to prevent attackers from selecting it by make, model or series.

An attempt to read data from the control unit may lead to the fuel pump being de-energized and it will be impossible to start the engine. Therefore, scanning of information must be carried out by a qualified specialist using special technical devices that guarantee further operation.

The interaction of the key with the control unit can be realized by flashing the control computer itself to the encoded signal of the microchip. This option is more complicated, because Many manufacturers program the information into multiple blocks that can sequentially compare incoming RF values, greatly increasing the level of security.

“Emulators” are also widely used, which make it possible to make it visible to the vehicle’s control computer without reprogramming the immobilizer. In fact, emulators are duplicates of chip keys, the presence of which is known only to the owner.

Instructions for installing autorun

Before installing a remote start unit, you need to make sure that the alarm system supports this function. Installation of an autostart module is not possible on all vehicles equipped with anti-theft systems. Each device is connected in accordance with the diagram included in the package.

The engine autostart unit can be installed on cars with both diesel and gasoline engines.

The module must be installed and connected according to the following scheme:

First you need to unsolder the cables from the ignition switch, which are responsible for starting the power unit. When performing this task, you must be as careful as possible so as not to damage the plastic lining in the cabin. If the car is equipped with an airbag, it must be removed.
Then the cables of the automatic start system are connected to the switching device in accordance with the diagram specified in the technical documentation. It is included in the anti-theft system.
If the car is equipped with a standard engine blocker, then you need to additionally buy an immobilizer bypass module. It is a block into which the second ignition key is installed.
Then a special autostart control wire is connected to the car’s tachometer. It can be connected to an engine fluid pressure controller or generator unit.
The autorun module is programmed in accordance with the technical manual.
You need to run one cable from the unit unit to the parking brake pedal or lever. This is necessary so that the car owner has the opportunity to urgently deactivate the system.

The installation procedure is carried out differently if the car has a Starline alarm system and an autostart module from this manufacturer is installed.

Installation process:

The microprocessor device is dismantled. It is usually located under or behind the dashboard.
The device body unwinds. In security system models that support the remote start function, the units are equipped with special connectors for installing modules. The device must be placed inside the microprocessor.
Before installation, the autostart unit is opened and the operator SIM card, which is included in the kit, is installed in it.
After installing the module, it is connected to the alarm control unit.
The microprocessor housing is screwed down and installed in place. It is connected to the on-board network.

When installing an autostart module, it is important to install a high-quality neutral sensor on the car to ensure the safety of the car when using the device.

The At13 Modules channel talked about the procedure for installing the device yourself.

Advantages and disadvantages of security systems with a GSM module

A gsm car alarm installed in a car has the following advantages:

Starting the engine on command - the driver will save time if he does not have to wait for it to warm up to a certain temperature while sitting in the cabin;
Comfortable conditions - in winter it is much more pleasant to get into a warm car than into a cold one;
Taking care of the main components of the car - for example, in freight transport, “freezing” of hydraulic components can lead to breakdown;
The SIM module helps track the location of the car on the map - it can be installed secretly, which will additionally ensure security and allow you to track the location of the car even if it was stolen;
You can install an engine autostart module without an alarm, if necessary;
You can set a speed limit and then the system will notify you when the set limit is exceeded.

It is necessary to mention the disadvantages of the “signaling”:

System vulnerability - if autostart using a smartphone is activated after the security mode is removed, attackers can enter the car interior

If an immobilizer is installed in the system, operating errors may periodically occur;
If the mobile connection in the area where the car is located is unstable, problems will arise in the operation of the alarm system;
If the system is not configured correctly, fuel may be wasted during autostart;
If started frequently on frosty days, the muffler may fail due to the accumulation of condensate inside;
The emergence of potentially dangerous situations - if the car was not locked in place with the handbrake when parking, then when the engine is started remotely, it may roll away.

Activating autorun

Regardless of how the remote start unit works, after installation it is necessary to prepare the machine.

This procedure will vary depending on the type of transmission. After preparation, the installed module is activated. Many manufacturers of security systems in their technical manuals indicate the nuances that are necessary for successful automatic start-up. You need to familiarize yourself with them, otherwise problems will arise during remote start.

On mechanics

Cars equipped with a manual transmission must be prepared as follows:

The ignition in the car must be turned off.
The neutral gear is engaged; for this, the gearshift lever is moved to the appropriate position.
The handbrake is activated.
The driver leaves the car and closes all doors.
The security system is activated and the remote start of the internal combustion engine is turned on.

Automatically

Vehicles with automatic transmissions are prepared as follows:

The gearbox lever must be set to parking mode - R. The handbrake can be left untouched.
The driver leaves the car, all doors are closed.
The security system is activated, after which the automatic start of the internal combustion engine is activated.

Problems when enabling autorun

Problems with enabling autorun

Why the autorun command may not work:

autostart based on time or temperature may not turn on due to a disabled alarm;
pressure sensor does not work;
The tachometer does not work;
the trunk, hood or doors are open;
the gear shift knob is not in the correct position (neutral or park);
automatic execution time has expired;
Handbrake is not included.

Instructions on how to use autorun

The setup process is shown using the example of a Starline alarm system on which the module was installed:

After preparing the car, if you want to start on command, you need to click on the first key of the pager. It is clamped and held for three seconds.
Then button number 2 is clicked. This will cause the security system to try to start the internal combustion engine on its own.

Identification of buttons on the communicator

If you need to perform this function at a certain time, you must first set an alarm:

You need to make sure that the clock on the key fob is running correctly.
The alarm function is activated. To do this, the cursor on the communicator display must be moved to the position of the bell-shaped symbol.
If necessary, the time parameters are adjusted; to do this, you need to click on the first and third buttons in sequence. The cursor on the display moves to the icon with the dial symbol. The function is activated. If this happens, the side lights of the car will blink.
If you successfully enable the auto-start option on an alarm clock, two new symbols will appear on the communicator display. One of them is made in the form of a bell, and the second is a dial. The appearance of these icons will be accompanied by a melodic signal.

To disable the option, the cursor on the communicator display must be moved to the clock icon, and then click on the second key. Successful deactivation will be indicated by two flashes of the side lights. The clock and bell icons will disappear from the communicator display. It is possible to configure the automatic start of the power unit in accordance with the readings of the temperature controller, which is installed on the vehicle’s engine. After the car engine starts, it will warm up for a certain time programmed earlier.

Activation of this option is carried out as follows:

The cursor on the communicator display moves to the indicator with a thermometer. Then the first key on the key fob is clicked. The car's side lights should blink and the communicator will emit one melodic signal. The engine temperature will appear on its display for four seconds.
By briefly pressing the first key, you need to set the necessary parameters. The temperature level changes by 10-30 degrees with each click, depending on the model of the security complex.
To activate the option after all the settings, you need to hold down the first button for a few seconds. As confirmation, an indicator in the form of a thermometer will appear on the communicator screen, and the pager will emit two beeps.

The “Stas World” channel spoke in detail about setting the autostart timer using the example of the Starline A91 security system.

How to install and connect

In order to install autorun yourself, just follow a few steps:

Install the parts into the car. The head unit and emergency button must be placed under the instrument panel. System sensors are installed on the hood, trunk and side doors;
Remove the battery terminals. Install the GSM module and SIM card;
Connecting system components. The sensors are connected to the head unit, but the emergency button is simply connected to the power circuit;
Connection to the standard network. When connecting the battery cables to the system, do not forget to install an additional fuse;
Linking to a mobile phone number. When finishing work, save the combination of digits of the phone number in the head module. After this, you need to complete synchronization with the GSM module by sending an alert or making a voice call.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages specific to this option:

The driver will start driving with a warm engine. In the winter season, the heating system will heat the interior faster, and in the summer, the air conditioner will cool it more quickly. This makes driving the car more comfortable.
Save time by eliminating the need to warm up the vehicle.
Many systems have a turbo timer option. Its activation allows you to gradually stop the operation of the turbine of the power unit. This is very important for diesel engines, since it has a positive effect on the service life of the internal combustion engine as a whole.
Possibility of warming up hydraulic systems. This feature will be valuable for truck owners.

Disadvantages of autostart for a car:

Vulnerability. A vehicle without an anti-theft system will attract the attention of intruders, especially if it is located in the courtyard of a residential building. There is a possibility of theft of valuables from inside the car. But simultaneous operation of a running engine with a security system or interlock is impossible. Therefore, it is advisable to use the autostart function only in guarded parking lots or in courtyards where the car is in the field of view of the car owner.
Higher fuel consumption. The power unit will operate at those speeds that the ECU considers normal. Using temperature or timer starting will cause the engine to start unnecessarily. To prevent this, the microprocessor module must be carefully configured.
Constantly starting the engine outside in winter will cause the exhaust pipe to freeze, causing condensation to collect in it. To avoid such a problem, it is necessary to correctly adjust the ICE operating time parameter. Ten minutes is usually enough, then the unit can be turned off.
If the machine is not equipped with a gear controller, automatic starting will be dangerous. If the driver forgets to put the vehicle in neutral or does not activate the parking brake, the car may roll away.
A more accelerated discharge of the battery is possible as a result of frequent activation of the starter device.

The “Avtozvuka Base” channel spoke in detail about all the advantages and disadvantages of this option after installing it on the vehicle.

Bottlenecks in automatic launch systems

In addition to all the positive aspects, sometimes certain problems arise for owners using the described technologies. Each driver should have an idea of possible problems and be able to reprogram the device at the right time. These disadvantages include:

strong wear effect on all moving parts and, specifically, on the elements of the starting device (starter, starting relay, flywheel), especially in cold weather;
increased battery discharge, which can reduce battery life;
reduced degree of security against theft, since for the autostart to function correctly, the immobilizer protection is removed;
errors in programming lead to unnecessary starts or to their lack, as a result of which there is a high possibility of failure due to freezing of the coolant, oil or battery;
when the car is outside in frequent winds (i.e. without movement) can lead to freezing of condensate in the exhaust pipe and its complete blockage for the passage of exhaust gases. In this case, the engine will not start until the minimum opening for the movement of exhaust gases has thawed.

How much does an autostart module cost?

The cost of autostart for a car depends on the manufacturer, as well as the car on which it will be installed.

Name	Price, rub
Blocks from Starline	From 2000 to 6000
Autostart module AT13	1000-2000
Sobr Absolute ARS 202M	About 3500
Autostart module for Porsche Cayenne and Volkswagen cars	From 4500 to 5000
Prices are relevant for three regions: Moscow, Chelyabinsk, Krasnodar.

Control methods

The car's autostart system is controlled by two modes: automatic and remote. The first is to set a certain number of engine starts per night and the duration of its operation, and the second is to start using a button on the key fob. There is also the option of control via an application on your cell phone, with the condition that it is possible to change the GPS receiver to send tasks via SMS.

Photo gallery

Automatic start module MS-04

Ghost TEK-250

Autostart device AT13

Purpose

A car that is not used for a long time in winter freezes. The oil thickens and icing appears. When you need to use a car, you spend a lot of effort warming up the car.

If you use autorun, the problem will not arise. After the engine stops, it starts again. The equipment warms up, then the engine is turned off. This is done by programming the autostart device. If done optimally, the car can be in working condition for a long time.