Hey guys quick question here. My dad has a 07 ram 1500. Looking at getting a remote start for him for christmas. The thing is his key is the big one that has the buttons built into it. I want to avoid having to either get another key made and having to put a different remote on his key chain. Is there a way to add factory remote start to his keyless remote so it looks factory. I realize this would prob require going to the dealer to get it setup but would it be way more hassle then its worth? I was looking at doing the viper 5904 for in my truck(I like the 2 way communication ) I was thinking about going that route for his if I cant do the factory one. Does anyone have this model of remote start?

 

First off, you need 2 programmed keys to install a remote starter. otherwise you cannot program the bypass module.
If you have 2 programmed kesy, then your good to go.
Factory remote starters need to be enabled by the dealer. Your looking at almost $400 in the end for a OEM starter. They use a diff remote fobb, their distance blows, but hey, their factory and some people insist on OEM crap.
Aftermarket, you'll need a bypass module equip for canbus communications. They run like $80 for our trucks. While they make wiring fairly easy, it's still complicated for a beginner.
I would highly reccommend buying from AutoAlarmpro
thats where i got mine from because I didnt want to screw anything up and I'm an electronics guy!
They put your alarm and bypass module on their assembly line, pre-wire it and program everything. You'll get detailed instructions and pictures too. they provide a light probe so you can find the correct wires before splicing/tapping. their customer support is great. You pay a little more for the Remote starter module..etc but it's well worth it and they take the difficulty right out of the installation. This time of year, it may take 7-10days before they ship because they get very busy. They use USPS priority for shipping btw.
I drank beer and wasn't really paying attention, just following the directions and had it completely done within 3hrs with all the wires tucked and ziptied nicely. best of all, I didn't feel like breaking anything...lol
I have a CodeAlarm 2-way Alarm/Remote stater kit good for 1/2mi range and I paid $349 from them plus $40 for the bypass unit. This was 4yrs ago though. Alarm module only adds a sensor for difficulty, nothing more, so it's worth buying.

I bought a bare grey colored key off ebay with the rams head for $22shipped, had my local hardware store cut it for $1 and programmed it myself(because i had 2 already programmed keys) I use the bare key with my 2-way remote rather than the bulky key and a bulky remote.

If your father is an OEM only guy, buy a key online and have it cut either at the dealership by your Vin or with the other key at the hardware store. Give it to the Dealer for them to program while they activate the factory alarm.

 

You will spend nearly $1,000 for a factory R/S system.

Also I do not suggest the 5904, that "color" screen on the remote Eats up the battery...

Get the 5901 and pat yourself on the back.

You will also need an Ignition Immobilizer Bypass Module (I Suggest the 556UW) and a second key that will start the vehicle (Vallet Key is ideal as long as it starts the car)

You will also need to integrate the OEM Alarm/Security System, which can be done with the Viper 5901 very easily.

I suggest that you have the install done by an MECP certified technician but it's your call on that one.

 

Guy,

The factory remotes come with 2 new keys (fobs) to replace the ones your dad has now.

 

Well upon calling my local dealer I decided against it. They didnt know their *** from a hole in the ground. Ill prob be going the viper route and get it installed by the guys who did our last jeep. As for my truck ill be going with the 5901 and prob the smart start app(I've read up on it, I like gadgets) Like the fact it will tell me where my truck is no matter where im at. I didnt mind the code alarm but they only had 1 model for my truck(which is a manual) Didnt have the lcd screen or anything. Was thinking about my local best buy too cause if you buy from them they will install it for free.

 

The only downside to the Smart Start is that both the truck AND your phone have to have cell service.... so if you park in a parking garage or near power lines or in a dead zone... nothing will work... lol

You also have to pay a subscription fee for the Smart Start stuff....

Other than those downsides its a nice add-on

Oh and regardless of what system you get you will need the parts I mentioned above...

 

Yeah I know but im rarely in a dead zone and if I am Im not more than a few feet from my truck. As for the 07 I know I need the Immobilizer. My 02 I dont since I dont have the chip in my key.

 

had no idea we were doing a 2002.... specially since you said "my dad's 07 1500" or w/e...

Oh well good luck... btw if you have a diesel the R/S gets more complicated b/c of the glowplugs... isn't always reliable at starting the truck... make sure they run a tach wire from the R/S brain to one of the injector wires +12v.... also make sure they enable and program all the diesel settings on the Viper... a lot of installers don't have a clue how to do any of that... so be careful.

 

Both are getting them. He will prob get the plain viper but for me I would like the smart start. Can get the viper installed in his truck for 350 and mine for 550. There is a part of me that wants to do mine by myself. I've never done one but I am very hands on and knowledgeable of vehicles. I have a tech service book for my truck which gives me every single wire diagram possible. Still unsure of it tho.

 

Just a heads up... the price for Viper only includes "BASIC" installation Labor... so be ready to dish out alittle more.

Also be ready for annual subscription fees for the Smart Start...