I wanted a remote start option but didn't want to deal with the factory Toyota setup due to the "safety feature" they built in. If you're unfamiliar, the feature is that the vehicle will shut off when a door is opened when running on the remote start function.
My local trusted automotive electronic accessory installation shop wanted alomst $1k to install a kit so I took to researching on the interwebs. While reading an older thread on here I came across a link to Accessorides and their reasonably priced kit with multiple options and additional features. I went with their basic G key operated kit. I didn't want or need an additional fob on my key ring and don't want to pay a subscription service to use an app on my phone.
I ordered a kit on Friday 5/27 (right before a holiday weekend) and received it the following Thursday 6/2. It was packed well, had full color detailed instructions with decent pictures, a nice quality pry tool for removing interior panels and a few zipties for securing the harness. The harness is very professional looking. I'd rank it at least OEM quality for connectors and looming.
Installation is super easy. It took me maybe an hour because I'm ridiculous about my wire routing and component placement. It all has to look like it was built that way even when I can't see it. In reality, it probably would take 30-45 minutes if you lack the OCD tendencies I have.
Programming was even easier. 2 steps are involved and the 1st one essentially does itself when you turn the key on. The steps only have to be done once and all additional keys you may have will work when it's complete.
I did multiple tests of the kit while reassembling all the interior panels just to make sure I didn't knock anything loose and a drive into town and back proved a good installation.
All in all, I am incredibly happy with this kit. There is nothing that I would change about this kit. It's very rare that I can't find something I feel could have been done differently or better. Even their customer service was quick to answer a question I had prior to buying the kit and they told me to wait a few days until their sale kicked off.
Link to the product site:
Accessorides Home Page
TRD Jon on YouTube has a good video on the installation but he doesn't remove all the interior panels called out in the instructions. You risk damaging the knee panel that way and it's much more difficult to access the underside of the dash. I went a step further than the instructions and removed the bracket the knee airbag is attached to so I had even greater access under the dash. Note that I did NOT unplug the cable going to the airbag, I just swung it out of the way. I'm not a superfan of fussing with connectors that can result in popping an airbag in my face. I also removed the bezel surrounding the fan speed knob. It makes getting the knee panel out easier.
Link to the video by TRD Jon:
Kit Install
Tools I used: 10mm socket and driver, long (a standard length one should work as well) #2 philips screwdriver, small flat blade screwdriver, interior trim pry tool (the kit comes with a basic one, I preferred to use a forked one from a kit that I have on hand), a few extra zip-ties.
Last, I did not install the underhood switch. I didn't feel it was a necessary feature and it is not required for the kit to operate properly.
NOTE: I am in no way affiliated with Accessorides. They did not ask me to leave this review, pay or sponsor me or provide any incentives whatsoever for it.
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