Remote car starters are a popular convenience feature for many drivers, offering the ability to warm up their car on cold mornings or cool it down in the summer heat․ However, for those with manual transmission vehicles, the installation of a remote starter can be more complex and potentially more expensive than for automatic transmission vehicles․
Why Remote Starters Are More Expensive for Manual Vehicles
The primary reason for the increased cost is the need for a specialized installation process․ Unlike automatic transmissions, which have a neutral position that the starter can engage, manual transmissions require a mechanism to ensure the car is in neutral before the engine can be started․ This typically involves the installation of a “neutral safety switch,” which prevents the engine from starting unless the transmission is in neutral․ This additional component and the more complex installation process contribute to the higher cost․
Factors Affecting the Cost
The cost of installing a remote starter on a manual transmission vehicle can vary depending on several factors, including⁚
- Vehicle Make and Model⁚ Different vehicles have varying levels of complexity, requiring different installation procedures and potentially more labor time․
- Type of Remote Starter⁚ More advanced remote starters with additional features, such as remote start with keyless entry or smartphone integration, will typically cost more․
- Installer Expertise⁚ The experience and reputation of the installer can also affect the price․ Specialized installers may charge more for their expertise in working with manual transmission vehicles․
- Location⁚ Labor costs and the availability of specialized parts can vary geographically․
Typical Costs
While the actual cost can vary significantly, here’s a general idea of the potential range⁚
- Basic Remote Starter⁚ $200 ― $400
- Advanced Remote Starter⁚ $400 ― $800
- Installation Cost⁚ $100 ⏤ $200
It’s important to get multiple quotes from reputable installers and to compare the features and warranties offered by different remote starter brands․ Remember, choosing a qualified installer with experience in manual transmission vehicles is crucial for a successful and safe installation․
Alternatives to Consider
If the cost of a remote starter is a concern, there are alternative options to consider⁚
- Block Heater⁚ A block heater can be a more affordable solution for warming up your engine on cold days․
- Remote Start for Automatic Vehicles⁚ If you’re considering a car purchase in the future, an automatic transmission vehicle may be a more cost-effective option for remote start installation․
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to install a remote starter on a manual transmission vehicle depends on your budget, your needs, and your comfort level with the potential costs and complexities involved․