5th Gen Viper "Smartstart" Pro Remote-less Alarm? Any users?

[rmbertoldi]

Yes yes, before you say it..I've been to the other "threads".
I'm looking for anyone that's tried the new remote-less Viper "Smartstart" Pro. I've HATED the idea of adding another remote to my already-huge 4runner key/ring..and just saw the new Viper Pro "Smartstart" system with the phone app. Has anyone tried this one yet? I hear it has apple watch-start compatibility, OBD code reading, as well as a "small" fee for cloud access? all from the phone app.

Would love to hear if anyone's had it installed before I buy and start splicing!

 

[4lo.ko]

bump. anyone have this yet?

 

[mrblah]

im getting it installed today....ill update once i get the hang of this

 

[mrblah]

Ok so this is a subscription/cellular based GPS system that you "SHOULD" add on to an existing viper alarm. I bought the SmartStart GPS pro add on, in addition to the viper 5706v. SmartStart GPS pro while technically is a stand alone product, it really isn't. If you just buy the SmartStart GPS itself, you basically only get GPS tracking and nothing else. Now when you pair it with a viper alarm system, then it becomes pretty cool, but expensive.

If you buy the SmartStart pro and a viper alarm, It basically turns your phone into a 2 way pager that allows you to do remote start, lock, unlock, and 2 auxiliary functions that you program it into (depending on original alarm system configuration) with unlimited distance and gps tracking. this allows you to monitor your vehicle and input and receive data and vehicle commands from anywhere that has cellular service. It also offers road side assistance, but obviously, you have to pay for it if you use it..so thats kind of gimmicky. I do like the battery voltage monitoring since I have alot of electronics wired into the vehicle and i worry about parasitic draining.

The biggest con is: there is maybe a 6 second delay though, and if cellular service is non existent (like underground garage), it won't work (but this isn't viper's fault, its the cellular service). You get a timed out error message.

From a offroading enthusiast's perspective, it don't work well since you don't have cellular service half the time. Now, in the city the GPS tracker works well cuz it allows multiple topographical overlays (i think it is based on google maps), so I like to just look down on it to get my bearings when im exploring the city. It also allows you to triangulate yourself to your vehicle (find car feature), so you can always find your vehicle even if you are lost in the woods. Obviously, this won't replace a Sat Nav (garmin in reach) because it uses cellular service, and it won't replace your regular GPS because you can't input destinations. It only TRACKS, and you can pan the surrounding areas like on google maps to see where you are at or whats close by. It's like a garmin in reach but for the city.....ol.

you can get up to date vehicle data when the vehicle is moved, or doors unlocked, or locked, and even temperature inside the vehicle and battery voltage. It even can track vehicle speed, or place an alert if the vehicle leaves a certain area. When paired with a compatible viper alarm, you get 2 way instant messaging and/or email notification WHEN your vehicle is broken into, or when its moved, or when the doors are open, etc (basically which sensor is being triggered, duration, time and place).

It also has blue tooth connectivity, but it doesn't work..PERIOD. I researched it and not sure if its part of the SmartStart GPS pro kit or part of the 5706v alarm system, but its to allow future upgrades and firmware upgrades. Currently, it don't do shieeeet.


Now on to the viper 5706v alarm system that I purchased to have the SmartStart GPS pro to piggy back off of:

I got the viper 5706v as the base alarm. It allows 1 mile, 2 way paging. it includes 1 (1 way) pager, and 1 (2 way LED) pager, but if you want, you can just have your OEM key fob programed (you lose 1 mile radius and lose remote start on your key fob but thats why i upgraded to the SmartStart GPS pro). This kit doesn't include the new OLED key fob, but i thought that was a waste of money if you are going to upgrade to the smart start, since your phone will do all the work. SO i'm happy with the LED key fob. However, after playing with the system all night, this is WAY overkill and redundant because whats the point of having a bad ass key fob when your smartphone just completely outclasses it (remote start, lock/unlock, instant messaging and email alerts vs key fob alerts), unless you like playing with different functions built into the key fob.

I also added glass break sensor and vehicle tilt sensor. You get a badass, bright and blue LED antenna that has a valet button on it, so no more fumbling for the stupid valet button. You also get a siren. The siren is equally as loud as the horn. I have it wired so when the alarm goes off, both horn and siren goes off. Now the only bummed thing is when it unlocks and locks, i only get the siren notification, and it doesn't sound very authoritative.

Remote start is pretty cool, you can set how long you want it to run for. You can lock and unlock your doors separately from the the remote start.. So you can run into the liquor store or whatever, and keep the vehicle running. Great for having a dog or pet in the vehicle if you have to have a quick bathroom break or something. With SmartStart you can do this anywhere..unlimited distance as long as you have cellular service.

Also the key fob from 5706v, will light up and vibrate to alert you if someone is breaking into the vehicle and I think it also makes a chime and is rechargeable via Mini USB.



So even though i have 2 key fobs that came with the 5706v. I plan on only using the SmartStart GPS pro (cell phone) and my OEM key. I don't want to carry more crap in my pockets.

I honestly like this setup ALOT, but I do have some regrets. If i had known better. I would have bought the cheapest viper alarm that has compatibility with the SmartStart GPS PRO, unless you like the redundancy of having the vehicle contact you multiple ways that your vehicle is being broken into (phone AND your key fob).

Data plans are not cheap, they range from 70 to 200 dollars a year. I bought the middle plan at 120ish i believe.

Original intent was to have a basic alarm with glass break sensor, then I got carried away and just optioned a alarm/remote system on what I wanted it to do...

Overall im happy but then again its only been 1 day....

cheers.

 

[2021nightshade4x4]

Thanks for the info. I’ll address a few points:

- Cellular service is a HELL of a lot better at getting into that parking deck than SATELLITE. You at least have a chance.

- 6 second delay for cellular commands is NOTHING. GM vehicles prior to 2015 (LTE with AT&T) used 1X CDMA with Verizon. Voice calls and signaling (remote commands took a FULL 60 SECONDS).


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[mrblah]

Thanks for the info. I’ll address a few points:

- Cellular service is a HELL of a lot better at getting into that parking deck than SATELLITE. You at least have a chance.

- 6 second delay for cellular commands is NOTHING. GM vehicles prior to 2015 (LTE with AT&T) used 1X CDMA with Verizon. Voice calls and signaling (remote commands took a FULL 60 SECONDS).


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Sorry if I sounded like I was complaining. Anyways, i heard that before 4G, this SmartStart was a gimmick. Now with 4g/LTE and 5G coming out....smartstart is actually a very GOOD viable option in replacing the viper remote fob, which is my actual plan. Smartstart and my OEM key fob. So this technology has gone a long way in only a few years.

I pointed out satellite vs cellular differences, because they work well together. Satellite out in the boonies, and cellular in the city. Although for most people, OBVIOUSLY, cellular is more usable on a day to day basis. I just dont want people to think this will replace a garmin Inreach when they decide to go out into the middle of bumFnowhere because it won't.

I have to point out the delay, because if people are expecting SmartStart to be instantaneous like their key fobs..it is not. Although the key fob doesn't have unlimited range, you also won't an error message if you hang out in underground parking garages like i do due to cellular service loss...so pros and cons to take into consideration.

 

[2021nightshade4x4]

Sorry if I sounded like I was complaining. Anyways, i heard that before 4G, this SmartStart was a gimmick. Now with 4g/LTE and 5G coming out....smartstart is actually a very GOOD viable option in replacing the viper remote fob, which is my actual plan. Smartstart and my OEM key fob. So this technology has gone a long way in only a few years.

I pointed out satellite vs cellular differences, because they work well together. Satellite out in the boonies, and cellular in the city. Although for most people, OBVIOUSLY, cellular is more usable on a day to day basis. I just dont want people to think this will replace a garmin Inreach when they decide to go out into the middle of bumFnowhere because it won't.

I have to point out the delay, because if people are expecting SmartStart to be instantaneous like their key fobs..it is not. Although the key fob doesn't have unlimited range, you also won't an error message if you hang out in underground parking garages like i do due to cellular service loss...so pros and cons to take into consideration.

If it doesn’t die when I open the door, I’m sold.


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[Superjet]

I have a Compustar with Drone. No remote, no antenna on the windshield. I use the OEM remote to start or the Drone app if I need long range. It's also a Push to start so the OEM fob always stays in my pocket.

The days of extra fobs and some with really cool displays are long gone. They still sell them, but why?

 

[2021nightshade4x4]

I have a Compustar with Drone. No remote, no antenna on the windshield. I use the OEM remote to start or the Drone app if I need long range. It's also a Push to start so the OEM fob always stays in my pocket.

The days of extra fobs and some with really cool displays are long gone. They still sell them, but why?

But why…

Where did everyone on this forum go
Where did everyone on this forum go - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum


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[mrblah]

I have a Compustar with Drone. No remote, no antenna on the windshield. I use the OEM remote to start or the Drone app if I need long range. It's also a Push to start so the OEM fob always stays in my pocket.

The days of extra fobs and some with really cool displays are long gone. They still sell them, but why?

yup, it was either viper or compustar..both great systems if you ask me.

 

[Pho thit cho]

I have the new compustar with the extra fob and it automatically unlocks my doors hands free when I step within proximity to my vehicle.

 

[Ripper238]

I have had quite a few DEI (Python/Viper) remote starts with alarm and they are reliable and communication with the Fob is impressive (like 1mi) but the remote-less "Smartstart" is a great, no distance limitation as long as there is service.

For me i am in places with no service a lot so i chose the Fob with 1mi range and its been great.

 

[Philip.]

It’s way better with the new module…

I’ve had viper smart start ( non gps ) in my last 3 cars. The system was slow and finicky as others said but they had a offer for existing customers on the old module that if you upgrade to a 3 yr plan they send you the new one for free. The battery draw on the new modules better than the old as well another plus.

It is instant. Maybe a 1 to 2 sec lag. The battery voltage is great as well. I primarily used the key b4 and the smart start as a back up but that has changed now and I use my phone more.

Best part is that you get real time alerts so if your at work and your alarm goes off if your not in key fob range you won’t know until you are or your truck is gone. It will send to as many text or email recipients so someone else can have the viper app installed too which is great for additional drivers. No extra charge for this either. You don’t need the app to get alerts btw.

I got the glass break add on as well and the tilt axis alert. Lots of yotas go missing in Toronto at least this way I sleep better.

They need to add the remote start timer to the app that would be good in the winter so you can see how many more minutes you have b4 you head out and freeze LOL. Works with apple watch too.

Only tip make sure you get it installed at a authorized vendor. Call viper to check.

 

[racekar]

Interested in the viper 5706v over the 3305 because it has better range.

I don’t care about remote start and do not want the subscription I just want the longer remote range if car is getting broken into will this alarm notify the lcd key fob without subscription?

Or am I stuck with 3305 1000 ft range ?

 

[snitz427]

I've had Viper Smart start for 3 or 4 years now. I only use it for remote start / lock. It works great for that purpose. I'm able to ulock and lock the car, even while its running - which is nice when I need to load up some stuff while the car is warming up.

I just got my $119 annual renewal notice.

 

[pobando]

Which Compustar unit did you end up getting? Still happy with it?
Would love to use the oem fob and not have to carry an extra fob around.

I have a Compustar with Drone. No remote, no antenna on the windshield. I use the OEM remote to start or the Drone app if I need long range. It's also a Push to start so the OEM fob always stays in my pocket.

The days of extra fobs and some with really cool displays are long gone. They still sell them, but why?

 

[Havik]

I've had this system for just over a year. Mine came with 2 remotes, or you can use the app from your phone. Honestly, I use the remote it came with more than the app. Although, you totally can just use the app. I love it, I got a bunch of add-ons like the glass break sensor, shock sensor, extra battery, etc. because I was taking it on a long road trip and was going to have to park it in places I was unfamiliar with so I wanted to make sure it was as protected as it could get. I love the 2 way remote, it has like a 1 mile range and when I was in my hotel rooms, I could lock, unlock and get notified if the alarm went off (the app does this as well). It uses cellular service so the only issue I see with not having the remote is if you go off grid and can't start your truck. If you go camping with it in remote places, you are going to want the remote.

All in all, I love the Viper alarm, lets me see where my truck is at all times, can lock and unlock it remotely as well as start it from anywhere. It also will let you know if your battery is running down which is nice. It also doesn't stop the engine if you open the door like the factory remote start does. I would definitely recommend it.

If anyone has specific questions, let me know. I'll do my best to answer them.

 

[2021nightshade4x4]

I've had this system for just over a year. Mine came with 2 remotes, or you can use the app from your phone. Honestly, I use the remote it came with more than the app. Although, you totally can just use the app. I love it, I got a bunch of add-ons like the glass break sensor, shock sensor, extra battery, etc. because I was taking it on a long road trip and was going to have to park it in places I was unfamiliar with so I wanted to make sure it was as protected as it could get. I love the 2 way remote, it has like a 1 mile range and when I was in my hotel rooms, I could lock, unlock and get notified if the alarm went off (the app does this as well). It uses cellular service so the only issue I see with not having the remote is if you go off grid and can't start your truck. If you go camping with it in remote places, you are going to want the remote.

All in all, I love the Viper alarm, lets me see where my truck is at all times, can lock and unlock it remotely as well as start it from anywhere. It also will let you know if your battery is running down which is nice. It also doesn't stop the engine if you open the door like the factory remote start does. I would definitely recommend it.

If you anyone has specific questions, let me know. I'll do my best to answer them.

After reading so many threads, is the Viper system the only one that DOESN’T kill the engine when the car is started?


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[Havik]

After reading so many threads, is the Viper system the only one that DOESN’T kill the engine when the car is started?


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I don't know if it is the only one, but it is one I know from experience does not cut off the engine when you open the door.

 

[4lo.ko]

Ok so this is a subscription/cellular based GPS system that you "SHOULD" add on to an existing viper alarm. I bought the SmartStart GPS pro add on, in addition to the viper 5706v. SmartStart GPS pro while technically is a stand alone product, it really isn't. If you just buy the SmartStart GPS itself, you basically only get GPS tracking and nothing else. Now when you pair it with a viper alarm system, then it becomes pretty cool, but expensive.

If you buy the SmartStart pro and a viper alarm, It basically turns your phone into a 2 way pager that allows you to do remote start, lock, unlock, and 2 auxiliary functions that you program it into (depending on original alarm system configuration) with unlimited distance and gps tracking. this allows you to monitor your vehicle and input and receive data and vehicle commands from anywhere that has cellular service. It also offers road side assistance, but obviously, you have to pay for it if you use it..so thats kind of gimmicky. I do like the battery voltage monitoring since I have alot of electronics wired into the vehicle and i worry about parasitic draining.

The biggest con is: there is maybe a 6 second delay though, and if cellular service is non existent (like underground garage), it won't work (but this isn't viper's fault, its the cellular service). You get a timed out error message.

From a offroading enthusiast's perspective, it don't work well since you don't have cellular service half the time. Now, in the city the GPS tracker works well cuz it allows multiple topographical overlays (i think it is based on google maps), so I like to just look down on it to get my bearings when im exploring the city. It also allows you to triangulate yourself to your vehicle (find car feature), so you can always find your vehicle even if you are lost in the woods. Obviously, this won't replace a Sat Nav (garmin in reach) because it uses cellular service, and it won't replace your regular GPS because you can't input destinations. It only TRACKS, and you can pan the surrounding areas like on google maps to see where you are at or whats close by. It's like a garmin in reach but for the city.....ol.

you can get up to date vehicle data when the vehicle is moved, or doors unlocked, or locked, and even temperature inside the vehicle and battery voltage. It even can track vehicle speed, or place an alert if the vehicle leaves a certain area. When paired with a compatible viper alarm, you get 2 way instant messaging and/or email notification WHEN your vehicle is broken into, or when its moved, or when the doors are open, etc (basically which sensor is being triggered, duration, time and place).

It also has blue tooth connectivity, but it doesn't work..PERIOD. I researched it and not sure if its part of the SmartStart GPS pro kit or part of the 5706v alarm system, but its to allow future upgrades and firmware upgrades. Currently, it don't do shieeeet.


Now on to the viper 5706v alarm system that I purchased to have the SmartStart GPS pro to piggy back off of:

I got the viper 5706v as the base alarm. It allows 1 mile, 2 way paging. it includes 1 (1 way) pager, and 1 (2 way LED) pager, but if you want, you can just have your OEM key fob programed (you lose 1 mile radius and lose remote start on your key fob but thats why i upgraded to the SmartStart GPS pro). This kit doesn't include the new OLED key fob, but i thought that was a waste of money if you are going to upgrade to the smart start, since your phone will do all the work. SO i'm happy with the LED key fob. However, after playing with the system all night, this is WAY overkill and redundant because whats the point of having a bad ass key fob when your smartphone just completely outclasses it (remote start, lock/unlock, instant messaging and email alerts vs key fob alerts), unless you like playing with different functions built into the key fob.

I also added glass break sensor and vehicle tilt sensor. You get a badass, bright and blue LED antenna that has a valet button on it, so no more fumbling for the stupid valet button. You also get a siren. The siren is equally as loud as the horn. I have it wired so when the alarm goes off, both horn and siren goes off. Now the only bummed thing is when it unlocks and locks, i only get the siren notification, and it doesn't sound very authoritative.

Remote start is pretty cool, you can set how long you want it to run for. You can lock and unlock your doors separately from the the remote start.. So you can run into the liquor store or whatever, and keep the vehicle running. Great for having a dog or pet in the vehicle if you have to have a quick bathroom break or something. With SmartStart you can do this anywhere..unlimited distance as long as you have cellular service.

Also the key fob from 5706v, will light up and vibrate to alert you if someone is breaking into the vehicle and I think it also makes a chime and is rechargeable via Mini USB.



So even though i have 2 key fobs that came with the 5706v. I plan on only using the SmartStart GPS pro (cell phone) and my OEM key. I don't want to carry more crap in my pockets.

I honestly like this setup ALOT, but I do have some regrets. If i had known better. I would have bought the cheapest viper alarm that has compatibility with the SmartStart GPS PRO, unless you like the redundancy of having the vehicle contact you multiple ways that your vehicle is being broken into (phone AND your key fob).

Data plans are not cheap, they range from 70 to 200 dollars a year. I bought the middle plan at 120ish i believe.

Original intent was to have a basic alarm with glass break sensor, then I got carried away and just optioned a alarm/remote system on what I wanted it to do...

Overall im happy but then again its only been 1 day....

cheers.

Thanks for the review! Finally looking to getting Viper or Compustar. How's it treating you so far? And i'm assuming you had it professional installed, if so, where at in San Diego?