Start-X Remote starter

I thought I’d share my experience with the Start-X remote starter kit, since I couldn’t find an instance where anyone else had done so. For those of us not lucky enough to have Toyota Connect, or a dealer installed remote start, this is a great option!



The kit, as advertised, is completely plug and play. No cutting or splicing was necessary. Installation was a breeze too, only requiring removal of the LF door sill cover, kick plate, lower dash cover, and lower steering column cover. The whole process took only 15 minutes, and the company provides an easy to follow video detailing the process.

Once installed and configured, the remote start is activated using the OEM key fob by pressing the lock button 3 times. This will start the truck and it run for 10 minutes before shutting off. This can be extended another 10 minutes once by pressing the lock button on the fob during the run cycle.

Like the dealer installed option, the vehicle will shut off when a door is opened. Unfortunately, this behavior cannot be disabled (at least in any manner I know of or that Toyota supports…if anyone knows of a trick here, please share!). Additionally, range is limited to the same as that imposed by the fob, which admittedly is not great! Line of sight is required and distance is definitely a limiting factor, but this is equally true with the OEM option.

However, a range extending antenna, fully supported by the manufacturer, can be added that will improve this considerably. If you’re really feeling froggy, the manufacturer also supports integration with the

$182 CARLINK ASCL6 Remote Start Cellular Interface Module Allows You to Start Your car from Your Phone 1 Year Included

CarLink module, which allows the truck to be started using a mobile app from anywhere with cell service. It will also lock and unlock the doors. The first year of service for this device is included in the purchase, and costs $40/yr thereafter.

I did not add the CarLink module in my use case, as it wasn’t needed. However, research does suggest it works well with this system.

The only caveat, other than the range and shut off on door open mentioned above I would point out is Start-X will only provide support (which is generally very good) for units purchased new from an authorized reseller like Amazon or EBay. They absolutely will not provide any support for units purchased used, as you would not be able to produce the purchase order number they demand when requesting support.

Overall, my experience with the device has been great. It does take a little practice to get the timing right on the button presses to start the truck, but once that is learned, it does its job very well! It’s definitely something I have recommended to others, and their kits are available for many other manufacturers and models as well.

Hope this helps someone on the fence about one of these systems! Thanks for tuning in!

 

I appreciate the write up.

 

Happy help!

 

I had luck so far. I installed in my 2023 Tacoma sr5 that didn’t come factory

 

Installed this on my tacoma and our rav4. Simple install and its not horribly priced. Had it for a year now no issues

 

Did one in our 4runner, was a pretty straightforward easy instal.

 

Any updates on this kit? Has it worked well or have you had any issues?

 

I’ve had no issues with it thus far. Starts my truck as expected every time.

 

Nice write-up.

Didn't know it would shut off when the door opens... Personally I don't think that's worth the benefit of using the factory fob, I think I'd rather have a separate fob and it stay running when the doors get opened.

 

There is a range extending antenna?

Edit: Is this what you're referring to?

Start-X RF Kit Compatible with Select Start-X Remote Start Kits NOT Compatible with Acura/Honda Vehicles

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099Z2RB9J

 

Hi,
I decided to instal this system to my 2020 Tacoma TRD off road. Easy installation.
The only one problem is lack of option to unlock door with use of smart app module.
I can start, stop, lock , and check gps location of my truck, but door unlock will not work. You can still unlock door with use of oem remote, but not with use of app.
I am wondering if it is possible to change. Otherwise I will need to return this system and buy something else.

 

Just installed one of these a few weeks ago and loving it. No more going out to an ice cold vehicle and having to scrape windows and wait for it to warm up. Best mod yet.

 

Do you have smart app module for it to start your truck with use of phone?

 

I don't. For me I didn't feel it would be worth it. My use is almost exclusively within the range of the fob.

 

Thanx. Even without smart app module it works great.

 

this is great to know! Thanks for sharing!

 

I just installed this in in my 2023 SR5 with the CarLink kit. Works great. Super easy install. The app does not unlock the doors, which is a little annoying but overall not a big deal. I'm much more interested in locking my doors and starting the vehicle from a distance (Like when I'm at work or the gym). I can always unlock it when I walk up to it. Car Link also has an Apple Watch app so you can lock/start/stop from your watch as well which is pretty cool

 

I think app is giving a command to unlock door, but remote start harness has no wire for unlocking. I see leds in remote starter module are changing when I am pressing unlock in app, but nothing happens. In my opinion it is locked in settings or no cable for door unlock in T-harness.

 

I reached out to Startx customer service and they said the unlock feature is not available on the Tacoma. Whether it’s in the unit, the wiring, or the truck itself, seems the lack of unlocking is the correct behavior.

 

Correct.
They sent the same information to me as well.

Somebody told me that he can unlock truck via app with N2 Design starter.