For a big part of the country, it’s starting to look (and feel) a lot like Christmas. That means the winds howling, leaves falling and temperatures dropping. With the holiday fast approaching, installing a remote starter is the PERFECT gift! Picture this…

It’s Monday morning.

It’s early.

Very early.

You’re running late.

You’re only half into your first cup of coffee.

The weatherman says, “Bundle up out there!”

The traffic report says, “The white stuff is accumulating!”

It’s getting later.

It’s getting lighter.

You can see it now.

Ugh – SNOW!

We’ve all been there and we’ve all said it, ‘my next car is going to have a remote starter!’ But there’s no reason to wait for that next car – you can visit Car Worx and Trucks and they’ll get you started on that remote starter! Not only can they help with your remote starter, they can help you get your vehicle ready for winter.

At this time of year especially, we get a lot of requests for remote starter installations. It’s the smart time to think about it and an even smarter time to schedule an appointment before those first flakes hit the driveway. To do it right, be sure to avoid these five mistakes:

DON’T buy a remote from place A and have it installed in place B

Always have your remote starter installed at the same place you bought it. You won’t do yourself any favors by buying the cheap system on eBay or at Wal-Mart. Most quality shops won’t install a remote starter purchased elsewhere. Don’t be tempted by the ‘deal of the day’.

DON’T forget to buy a remote system with enough range

While you might think ‘well, I’m sure the range is standard’, it’s not the range as much as it is the transmitter power. Most customers need to start their vehicles from more than 1,000 feet away and usually from inside their home. Now consider using it from the revolving door of the mall, within a parking garage, restaurant, stadium – throw in some rain or snow – you’ll rethink the transmitter power.

DON’T do it yourself

You may be the handiest DIYer in the neighborhood but quality remote starter systems are complicated in today’s even more complicated vehicles. Making a mistake can cost you thousands of dollars in damage that might not be covered under your current warranty or insurance. Don’t call a family friend or your uncle Gus…call the professionals!

DON’T buy a poorly rated/quality system

Like most people, you’re always smart with your money – careful not to pay too much for things. Buying a remote starter system for $69.99 that comes with an instructional DVD might sound like a great way to save some money, but in the end, don’t believe the hype. Not sure of a good deal? A good rule of thumb is to find the best shop in your community. Most likely they’ll sell and install what they consider a high-quality system. Ask around too - if you trust the shop, you can trust their choice in their products and recommendations.

DON’T forget to consider other features

Some remote starters are just that: Starters. While that might be good enough for some, if you’re going to make the investment, consider other systems that can include a keyless entry, a trunk release, turning on heated seats or rear window defroster.

Don’t get overwhelmed – the team at Car Worx and Trucks can help narrow your options and get you on your way. But hurry – cold, December Monday mornings don’t have to be miserable.