While there are several features to consider when choosing a remote start the most common decision is how much range you would like. The most basic is the lowest priced and offers a short range which is fine for everyday use say from the window to your driveway. More advanced units cover a greater distance as well as offering confirmation on the keypad for the times you can't see the vehicle(think in a restaurant, Costco office building, school or deep in a parking lot.). A cellular option is also available for those who desire unlimited range. The biggest hurdle that stops some people from going with this option is the monthly or yearly service plan that needs to be purchased.

A one way remote start has a shorter working distance with visual confirmation of either the exhaust or lights being the only way to confirm that the vehicle has started and is running. A two-way remote start has a considerably larger working distance and will push through walls and windows quite a bit better. The two-way remote start offers visual confirmation as well as confirmation directly on the keypad that the vehicle is running.

One ways remote starts are fine for the average user that just wants to look out their window and warm up the car which is parked close by. Two-ways should be considered if you work in a large building or live in a large apartment or condo building and park in an area where you can't see the vehicle. A cellular option or add-on is also available for the person who needs unlimited range. For example, someone who works downtown and parks in a structure, someone who works in a large factory or hospital or warehouse or someone who flies a lot and would like to get everything warmed up on the shuttle ride to their car.

A lot of today's newer cars have a little computer chip embedded into the key that tells the vehicle to start every time you use it. When adding a remote start you need this piece for the vehicle to stay running once the remote start is activated. It basically programs as a key and tells the vehicle that the proper key is in the vehicle or ignition. It also safely shuts down and deactivates when the remote start isn't being used, keeping the factory security intact.