DIY Remote Starter Kit for Jeep Wrangler JK/U
A remote starter is convenience in the palm of the hand and is very beneficial during the hottest and coldest days of the year. I got spoiled with the remote starter that came with my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JLU; therefore, I sought out a remote starter kit for my 2015 Jeep Wrangler JK.
I stumbled across a simple “plug ’n play” remote starter kit made specifically for the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK/U. I installed this product myself; saving a few hundred dollars from having a professional installing one. But that’s how easy it is!
In total, the install took about 20 minutes. If I were to install another one, I could probably install it in 10 minutes. A bonus to this specific remote starter kit is that it programs directly to the factory key remote, avoiding the annoyance of having to carry two remote fobs.
When programming one factory key remote, the second is activated immediately. When engaging the remote start by pressing the "lock" button three times, the process will automatically lock the Jeep’s doors before starting the engine - offering an added layer of security.
Hit the “lock” button three times again to turn the engine off. I noticed that with my aftermarket headlights, the daytime running lights remained on for about 30-45 seconds before completely turning off.
The remote start manufacturer offers a step-by-step installation video on their website. There are other installation videos and instructions available on YouTube from customers. Install is easier for the 2007-2015 model JK/U and requires a small extra step for 2016-2018 during the steering column disassembly.
The kit includes everything needed for a complete remote start installation, plus some extra pieces that weren’t necessary for my install. Covering every aspect, the kit even includes a pry tool and zip ties.
Additional tools that I gathered for the install were: a T-20 screwdriver, scissors to cut the zip tie tails, a flashlight to help see, and the Jeep’s key remote.
Installation Video: https://youtu.be/e8OYGTPsQzU
Pros:
*This kit includes one simple wiring t-harness.
*It programs to the factory remote.
*It’s literally DIY plug ‘n play.
*No cutting or splicing.
*No professional services required.
*Reasonable price
Cons:
*If any questions, technical difficulties, or further guidance is needed, there isn’t a customer service number to contact. Instead, the vendor provides an email address to contact support. They usually respond within a few hours though.
*For the heat, defroster, or A/C to run during remote start, you must pre-adjust the heat and air.
*This remote starter kit is for automatic transmissions with power locks only.
Here's another remote starter kit, available for the 2018+ Jeep Wrangler JL/U and 2020 Jeep Gladiator. While I am unable to provide any details or answer questions in reference to the install of this kit, it’s supposed to be plug ‘n play as well. I already know that the JL/U is more technologically advanced than the JK/U, so I can only assume that there are probably a few more steps in the process. Start-X claims a 10-minute install.
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