Hi, I drive a 2019 Mercedes GLC that I have to pay a subscription for in order to use the remote starter…I know most are doing this but I HATE it…not only bc I hate being “app dependent” but bc I notice that if the gas tank is less than half a tank, it will tell me that there is low fuel and cannot start. I NEVER had this issue when I used the Viper engine starters and had a simple remote to turn it on…
So, this may be a dumb question, but can I install my own remote starter over an existing one? Thanks Everyone
Car stereo guy here: I think it’s reasonable for manufacturers to charge for an app, since anything that allows tracking and cell phone control of your vehicle outside of Bluetooth is always subscription based. If it was a feature inside the car or off a regular remote control transmitter then that would be completely different. If the app is so poorly designed that it won’t work if you have half a tank of fuel or less, or if it seems prohibitively expensive like more than maybe $100 a year )and includes tracking), then check out car stereo shops in your area. There’s a company called Mid city engineering, there’s Compustar, and there is DEI/Viper, one or all may have a remote start product for your Mercedes. One time cost. If you want something that is app based they will have options then you will be back to a subscription, but it might be better value.