The convenience of remote start is undeniable, especially on those frigid winter mornings or sweltering summer afternoons. Imagine pre-heating or pre-cooling your car from the comfort of your home. However, a question often arises among car enthusiasts: can you install remote start on a manual transmission vehicle? The answer is a bit complex and depends on several factors, primarily safety and technological advancements.
The Safety Concerns Surrounding Manual Transmissions and Remote Start
Historically, the biggest hurdle in implementing remote start on manual transmission cars has been safety. With an automatic transmission, the vehicle is always in “Park” when off, preventing unintended movement. A manual transmission, however, can be left in gear. Imagine remotely starting a car left in gear; it could lurch forward, causing damage or injury. This is a significant safety risk.
Neutral Safety Switch: A Crucial Component
To address this concern, any remote start system installed on a manual transmission vehicle must have a neutral safety switch. This switch verifies that the car is indeed in neutral before allowing the remote start to engage. Without this critical component, the system is simply unsafe.
How Remote Start Systems Work with Manual Transmissions
Modern remote start systems for manual transmissions use a more sophisticated approach to ensure safety. They typically involve a “reservation” process, which confirms the car is safely parked before the remote start feature is enabled. Here’s a typical sequence:
- The driver parks the car, puts it in neutral, and engages the parking brake.
- The driver then activates a specific sequence on the remote (often a button combination).
- The system verifies the car is in neutral via the neutral safety switch and confirms the parking brake is engaged.
- The system then enters “reservation” mode. The engine shuts off.
- The driver exits the vehicle. The doors are locked. The alarm is set.
- Now, the remote start is armed. If the car is jostled or the system detects it isn’t in neutral, the remote start feature will be disabled.
Pros and Cons of Remote Start on Manual Transmission Cars
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Pre-heating or pre-cooling the car. | Requires a specific “reservation” procedure. |
| Safety | Modern systems include safety features like neutral safety switches. | Potential safety risks if the system malfunctions or is improperly installed. |
| Installation | Widely available kits from reputable brands. | More complex installation than on automatic transmissions. |
| Cost | Comparable to remote start systems for automatic transmissions. | May require professional installation, adding to the overall cost. |
Choosing the Right Remote Start System
If you’re considering a remote start system for your manual transmission vehicle, it’s crucial to choose a reputable brand with a proven track record. Look for systems that include comprehensive safety features and clear installation instructions. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure the system functions correctly and safely.
- Research different brands: Compustar, Viper, and Avital are well-known options.
- Read reviews: See what other users have to say about their experiences.
- Consult with professionals: Get advice from experienced installers.
