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Remote starter brands?

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by SR5yo, Oct 13, 2024.

  1. Oct 13, 2024 at 7:32 AM
    #1
    SR5yo

    SR5yo [OP] Member

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    2021 White Tacoma AC SR5 4x4
    ditch lights, auxiliary fuse panel, Air compressor
    I know there’s a few out there.. 12v solutions, N2, Start-X, Fortin. I understand these are all the same devices but wondering if build quality is any better with the N2 or Fortin? Are they all built in the same factory? I’ve read a couple horror stories on an Amazon listing for Start-X where they installed and was having issues, removed the device and issues persisted.. Could it be install error or shitty build quality and low quality of components used for the device. Whether i go with N2 or the cheaper Start-X i’ll probably still inspect the harness and device to make sure nothing is loose or looks off. I have an H-key by the by. I’m a marine electrician so cutting, crimping, tracing wire is no issue for me.
     
  2. Oct 13, 2024 at 7:45 AM
    #2
    Rusty66

    Rusty66 Ain’t Afraid

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    N2 uses the Fortin module along with their own plug and play harness. Probably the easiest install I’ve ever done, literally 20 minutes and it works perfect.
    However, I’m not 100% sure of N2 offers one for the key’d ignition switch.
     
  3. Oct 13, 2024 at 7:49 AM
    #3
    SR5yo

    SR5yo [OP] Member

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    ditch lights, auxiliary fuse panel, Air compressor
    they do actually but it’s $100 more than push to start totaling $300 the start-x is $200 for my H key. If it the same module and same harness i don’t see why going N2 would make any sense? maybe N2 could hopefully chime in.
     
  4. Oct 13, 2024 at 7:50 AM
    #4
    Rusty66

    Rusty66 Ain’t Afraid

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    Contact N2 directly, they’re very helpful.
    FYI the harness was top notch quality.
     
  5. Oct 13, 2024 at 8:34 AM
    #5
    SR5yo

    SR5yo [OP] Member

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    2021 White Tacoma AC SR5 4x4
    ditch lights, auxiliary fuse panel, Air compressor
    ya that was my next step.. I’m more concerned over the quality of the actual module itself rather than the harness. I do believe most problems arise from not having a proper ground connection or it coming loose after a year or two like most peoples issues. This simple mistake can cause everything connected to it to go haywire. I’ll probably use a spring or serrated washer to keep it backing off and also sand down to bare metal for the ring terminal mating surface.
     
  6. Oct 13, 2024 at 8:52 AM
    #6
    Dirt McGirk

    Dirt McGirk Well-Known Member

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    N2 and Remote start x both use the same module, Fortin. Then make their own harness.

    I had the remote start x when I had an SR5 and never had issues with it.
     
    SR5yo[OP] likes this.
  7. Oct 13, 2024 at 8:57 AM
    #7
    Bishop84

    Bishop84 Well-Known Member

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    Compustar and iData are what we use as top shelf at my dealer. I wouldnt use anything else, but like you I am not afraid to read schematics and program.

    The cool thing about compustar/idata is they get updates all the time and it can resolve small quirks.
     
    SR5yo[OP] likes this.
  8. Oct 13, 2024 at 9:11 AM
    #8
    SR5yo

    SR5yo [OP] Member

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    Vehicle:
    2021 White Tacoma AC SR5 4x4
    ditch lights, auxiliary fuse panel, Air compressor
    Compustar and Viper both crossed my mind as well.. i liked that i could use OEM key fob with the Fortin module.. I’d probably have to take a fair guess and say that Compustar has far more engineering with their modules than Fortin, but this i’m not sure of. There’s a Compustar going for $549 with Pro installation. My question is if they need to tap into any factory wiring or is it all plug and play? Either way if it’s no programming needed with a special device i’d rather install myself.
     
  9. Oct 13, 2024 at 9:42 AM
    #9
    TAZMINATOR

    TAZMINATOR Well-Known Member

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    Be careful, make sure to take your time to follow the instructions.. otherwise you'd fried BCM up.

    It will be between $1K and $2K for BCM replacement and possibly wires.

    It will be best if you leave it at dealer and they will do it with their starter kit.. that way, if they screw up, it's on them.
     
  10. Oct 13, 2024 at 10:25 AM
    #10
    Technique

    Technique Well-Known Member

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    -285/70/17 Toyo AT3 -Tuned
    I’d say N2. I got my kit from them years ago and started having issues with my cell start. Contacted them and then they contacted the service provider for the cell start and had it fixed asap…I was thinking I would need a new cell module.
    The actual remote start was super easy to install though.
     
  11. Oct 14, 2024 at 7:10 PM
    #11
    Tacosha

    Tacosha Well-Known Member

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    2019 Black Tacoma TRD OR ACLB 6MT
    minor, TRD skid plate, front recovery points, Regken mud flaps, rear diff breather, AC drain pipe extended. Upgraded sound with active sub woofer, tonneau cover, CB radio.
    So happy with mine Autostart (My Tacosha comes with one installed, later I figure out Wallmart sells them here in Canada),
    using almost for 5 years, almost every day - works perfectly, you open the door without engine shoot down.
    It was professionally installed, and I can highly recommend!
     

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