I just searched for info on installing a remote start and the newest thread dates back to 2012.

Does anyone have any opinions on the factory remote start on the 2014 T4R? Dealer quotes $500 option, but I found it here for far less. Supposed to come with instructions

Remote Engine Start PT398-89140

Has anyone installed it? How easy/hard is it?

I installed an aftermarket Avital remote starter on my FJ Cruiser and it worked great.

Can't help ya, but Im subbed for answers also.

I had remote start installed by the dealer $600, but then got half refunded after I found how it works. To auto start you press lock 3 times, once you go to get in the truck you have to unlock obviously... well this turns the truck off and you have to restart the truck again. Just an FYI, sorry this doesn't answer your question.

That depends on how comfortable you are stripping your dash down to the firewall.

It was not difficult at all, everything is plug and play with factory harnesses, wires the right length, etc. If it is the Toyota OEM one, it doesn't come with any instructions at all, but the FSM has good directions.

The final step in installation uses Techstream to program the immobilizer to recognize the remote starter. You will have to bring it to a dealer, or shop that has Techstream and a Mongoose cable (or better). The cheap cables from China don't work for flashing (tried).

ETA: Installation Instructions

I live in Alaska and remote start is a MUST up here for the winter, I paid $800 for an Astrostart remote start to be installed because my friends that had factory remote start said the reception and distance sucks. Also when you get a 2 way remote start the reception is aprox 1 mile and it comes back and tells you that it started. Unlike a "push and pray"

Thanks for the PDF. What is FSM and where do I find it?

Factory Service Manual.
My Files

Not trying to tell you what to buy, but as st8rocks stated about the engine cutting off when you unlock the doors that one reason I did not go with a factory remote start. I have a viper remote start LCD two way installed and the company put a bypass module in so the vehicle will not cut off when you unlock the doors. Check out viper website hopefully you will have a preferred dealer near you.
Advantages of a good aftermarket remote is.
1. Range
2. Two way remote (lets u know vehicle has started)
3. Engine does not cut off when u unlock door.
4. Has pit stop mode (which is nice if you have to run into a store for a minute and you what to leave your vehicle running without the keys in the starter and the doors locked.
5. Also down the road if you want to add smart start (were you can use your cell phone to lock, unlock, start the vehicle) from anywhere.

The only downside to a aftermarket remote start is having a extra fob to carry, but they are small. Cost was $430 for product and labor. Taking the wife vehicle in on July 3 to have done.

That, and potential weird electrical problems. Someone here had a random misfire and other gremlins that was finally tracked down to an aftermarket remote start.

Granted, the range on the OEM totally sucks, as does the 15 minute timer. I just don't understand why the engine stopping when you unlock or open the door is a negative. You're going to have to put the keys in the ignition anyway, the engine is warmed up, so the start is easy on the engine and battery, and it prevents anyone from jumping in and driving away. What am I missing here?

just purchased 14 trail premium

I negociated remote starter for $300 in my deal and presumed I was getting OEM starter. upon delivery and some internet research found out dealer installed aftermarket (pursuit is the brand) starter. upon questioning, dealer said OEM starter was garbage (range isues) and the aftermarket setup was better and still covered by warranty (although still kills ignition once brake is pressed). I don't love the additional and mostly redundant key fob. Looks like the only advantage to OEM starter is using the same key fob. Not sure range is a big problem for me, looking to start in my driveway during winter.

dealer willing to replace with OEM unit since I was expecting that in the deal

any thoughts? thanks in advance

Do you know if this would work with the smart key? I mean, not turning the engine off when you open the door?

I would recommend anybody looking to get a remote starter take a look at the Compustar stuff. Very quality stuff with a wide array of options. For example, I just installed a Compustar alarm and remote start with the Drone module in my 5th gen. I have the keyless entry and remote start on my phone, Compustar fobs, and OEM fobs. Yes, all that from the OEM fobs too. My 4Runner stays running when I unlock the door to get in. I also have the option of having the remote start taking over when the 4runner is already started (for example, you just need to run into the gas station real quick but you need to keep it locked and secure while running). Brake and hood inputs still kill the remote start should somebody get in. I also added the RPS touch pad so I can lock/unlock even if I don't have keys or phone with me (great for jogging without carrying too much stuff). Tons of flexibility with the Compustar stuff. Makes the OEM stuff seem like a joke.

But would it still work with the smart key? I've searched and there is very limited info on using remote starters with a smart key. It seems like the only one mentioned as working is by Fortin. Nobody local sells Fortin, so I'd be happy to get a Viper or Compustar if I knew it wouldn't turn the engine off with the smart key.

Not sure about the Fortin bypass. IIRC, no matter what bypass you go with, smart key vehicles need to shut down to re-validate the RF code. I have the regular key with my TEP. @gshadow325 would be the guy to ask about that.

You can do a Compustar and wire in a fortin module. Pm me for pricing and details