DIY Network

Remote Car-Start System: Final Connections From "Weekend Mechanic" episode WKM-301

In this segment, Weekend Mechanic host Bruce Bonebrake makes the final connections and adjustments to the remote car-start system, the engine-sensing feature is tested and the new starting system is given a trial run.

DIY Difficulty Rating for This Project: This job is relatively advanced and should only be undertaken by experienced automotive DIY'ers with some knowledge of automotive electrical systems. We gave it a difficulty rating of 5 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. Installing the kit on our project vehicle took about 8 hours over a period of 2 days. Installation time may vary according to specific vehicles or the type of kit or options selected.

Materials:

Standard mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, etc.)
Remote car-start system kit
Wire cutters, strippers and crimpers

Important:Altering your car's automotive electronics must be done very carefully or serious damage could result. If installed incorrectly, the device could prevent your car from starting, or could even shut off the car during driving. Every electrical connection in the installation procedure must be made correctly. If you're not comfortable doing electrical work on your car, have this type of unit installed by a professional mechanic.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

With the remote system wired properly wired in the vehicle, it's ready for making the final connection with the control unit. Begin by reconnecting the battery cable.

Important: When reconnecting battery cables, always connect the positive cable first followed by the negative.

• Connect the wiring harnesses to the control module according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most automotive wiring harnesses have locking connectors (figure A).

• Connect the valet switch (figure B), even if you may not need it.

• With both wiring harnesses connected, make sure that all the connections are locked and secure (figure C).

• With the battery reconnected and the unit hooked up properly, start the vehicle's engine using the ignition key to before making final adjustments to the control unit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with your kit to make the necessary adjustments. In our case, the module had two adjustments: the tachometer sensor and a smart-sensor (figure D). The smart sensor detects electronically whether or not the engine is running properly. A flashing LED indicates that the module has been adjusted properly.
  
• Once all connections and adjustments have been made, Bruce shuts off the engine and then performs a test-start using the new remote switch (figures E and F).

  Figure E

  Figure F

  
  
• When the switch is engaged, there is a slight starting delay followed by a start confirmation indicated by a flash of the parking lights. The engine then starts as intended.

• Our system also featured a keyless entry, which we also tested for proper operation.

Tip: Remember to pre-set your heating or a/c controls to your desired settings so that they will engage when the engine starts. You may want to have your defrost set to come on upon startup in cold weather, and the a/c set to come on in summer.

RESOURCES :

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Car Care
Author: Dan Ramsey
ISBN: 0028635833
Alpha Books

Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896