Are Car Remote Starters Bad for the Car’s Engine?

Being able to start your car with a remote is a luxury. With the simple push of a button, you can easily start your car and get it up to operating temperature while pre-conditioning the cabin. It’s a convenient feature, but are there any chances that using a remote starter can be bad for your car’s engine?

The Effect Remote Starter Has on Car Engine

Before we get into whether or not remotely starting your car is bad for the engine, we must first realize that there are two different opinions about idling your car in the first place. According to experts, there’s the belief that remote starting your car and letting it idle while you get ready for work can stress the engine since it’s working harder to warm up.

Technically speaking, it’s far better to drive your car lightly after starting it as that is a more efficient way to get it up to the proper operating temperature. On the other hand, some automotive experts believe that the added benefit of pre-conditioning the car’s cabin while you get ready for work outweighs any strain that the engine might go through.

In any case, remote starting the car is the same as starting it when you’re sitting inside the car, so technically, the feature itself wouldn’t have any negative effects on the engine.

Is Remote Starting Car Bad for the Car Battery?

Remote car starters also get blamed for causing premature wear on car batteries. But just like we mentioned above, remote starting a car has the same effect as starting the car from the inside of it. That being said, your car’s starting will undergo the same amount of use if you didn’t remotely start it.

However, experts explain that if your car comes with the remote start system as a factory-installed option, you don’t have to worry about it taxing the starter or the battery. The OEM manufacturer has likely set the system up to work well with the car and be reliable. But if you add a store-bought remote starter to your car, then it is possible that it could be taxing on the car’s battery or starter, depending on how it was installed.

Adding Store-Bought Remote Starter

If you want to add a store-bought remote start system to your car, you can do it yourself if you have some automotive electrical experience. With some kits, it’s as easy as relaying a few wires to the ignition.

However, the process can be more complicated depending on the car that you’re working on. If you need help, then many qualified car audio installers can assist you with the process. Installing a remote start system incorrectly could lead to more significant problems with your car’s electrical system later.