Toyota START+ remote starter cost ???

[g r a n t]

Hi.
I always wanted a remote starter and said I would get one on my next vehicle.
Then I noticed Toyota now offers a fancy, long distance remote starter for $1049 Canadian.
Can anyone tell me why this is so expensive? I can't possibly fathom what makes the tech so expensive. A maxed out iPhone is only about $600. A loaded entry-level DSLR is only about $750.
I can't see what makes the START+ system valued so high.
Thoughts?

 

[RedSled]

Dealership mark-up.

 

[vjack]

It's a combination of many things:

- Dealer markup
- Much more limited quantities made/sold
- Price includes an hour or two of labor
- Not a competitive market
- Dealer markup

I think a better comparison is to 3rd party long-range starters, which are more like $400-500.

 

[T4RZAN]

Best option would be to get one aftermarket installed by a professional. Companies like Compustar (Compustar ? Remote Car Starters & Security Systems) make plenty of models of all price ranges and even an option to use your phone. Then you can get them installed by several retaillers such as a car audio shop or a big electronics store can do it if you don't want to.

I know that doesn't answer your question but hopefully gives you an alternative

 

[wadle5]

Get aftermarket.
They are often more durable, easier to use, multiple functions can be tied in, and cheaper.

 

[Dane2992]

Has any came across a thread about how to keep the vehicle running when you unlock the doors in the VIP start system Toyota installs?

 

[swiss_seth]

I want a factory remote start so bad for my 2015 but refuse to pay the high cost when I know its a simple install

 

[Jeremy556]

I want a factory remote start so bad for my 2015 but refuse to pay the high cost when I know its a simple install

You can purchase and install it yourself, but will need a dealer (or a shop with a Mongoose cable) to program the immobilizer. The installation may be a bit more involved than you imagine - it requires removal of all lower dash, steering column cover, passenger knee airbag, even wiring up to the hood release latch in the engine bay, if you have an SR5.

 

[MudPie]

I have factory remote start in my 4Runner and Compustar in my Sequoia. I wish I would have went with the Compustar in the 4Runner.

 

[trey99ek]

I have a Compustar in mine. It cost about $300 and I installed it myself.

 

[Ausumm]

-
I got one for my wife for Xmas.
$350 installed. (not Geek Squad, etc)
Considering how badly I could have screwed it up if I did it myself...
it was worth paying a professional to do it.
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