When I bought my '08 LT2 Malibu, it came with factory remote start. I work on the 11th floor, and can see my car in the parking lot across the street but was never able to remote start it from this distance. My co-workers, who have Autostart or Python branded 2-way remote starters are all able to start their cars with no problems (even the intern who doesn't have a window cubicle can start his Mazda3 from his desk). This is a very nice convenience since they can remote start their vehicle just before leaving, and by the time they get to the car, it's nice and warm! It's especially nice since the entire Jan/Feb is almost always -25 celcius or lower where I live. For me, I either have to get off at the 2nd floor, or start my car when I get out of the building...

Since I didn't want to mess with the factory settings, I decided to upgrade my factory remote starter to the Advanced 2-way remote starter. The dealer quoted my $258.00 (for the AP3 model). The dealer claimed that it would increase my range as well as provide me with fuel level information, odometer reading, tire pressure information, and also visual confirmation that my doors were locked/unlocked, and if the trunk was opened. BTW, like other branded 2-way remote starter systems, it only comes with one 2-way remote, the other remote is just like the regular one. The dealer also installs an antenna in the rear windshield of my car (this is what supposedly gives it better range). The dealer gave me the two original remotes back, but they don't work anymore because the system only recognizes two remotes at any given time. They said I can hang on to them in case I lose one, or sell them if I wanted to; but as of right now, they don't work anymore.

After getting it installed, everything worked as promised, 2-way confirmation, fuel level, tire pressure, odometer all worked. However, I'm disappointed to report that the range has only improved ever so slightly... I am still unable to start my car from the 11th floor. I have tried it from the second floor, and it still starts from there, and have gone as high up as the 7th floor, but sadly to say, that doesn't help me in the least. I would also like to say that the remote is very large. The other branded 2-way remotes are much sleaker.

I am also unhappy to report that the process for 2-way remote starting is very slow. You press the lock button, and then hold the start button for 2-seconds. It then initiates the remote start sequence (you see a symbol showing the remote is transmitting), and about 2-3 seconds later it will tell you that it either started or didn't start, meaning the whole process takes 5-6 seconds. My cubicle mates remote starter takes less then 2-seconds to complete after keying in the sequence (no need to hold anything down).

So in summary, I am disappointed at the range, but understand that I got what I paid for. I am unsure if the poor performance is poor in all the vehicles it's installed in or if it is limited to the Malibu. I thought I'd share this, since there isn't too much information about this option available anywhere. If you are looking for a 2-way remote starter that provides visual confirmation in a OEM package that is covered under your warranty, this is a good solution. However, if you're looking for an extended range system (2500~3500 ft range), this is not for you.

 

I think this is what you really wanted
http://www.bypasskit.com/product.asp...XL2230&catid=4
It adds the functionaly and range of an aftermarket remote starter, but utilizes the software areadly built inot the vehicle forthe remote starter
Basically just replaces your remotes and still uses the factory remote starter