I do know that Directed Electronics makes Viper, Python, Clifford, Avital, Ready Remote, Astrostart, Automate, Autostart and Expresskit. Which are some of the brands that make the smart start remote starts. Uses your cell phone to start your vehicle from anywhere you have a cell signal to both phone and vehicle. If you go with one of those brands, then some of the remote start systems can be upgraded to the Smart Start system.
One of the things I like to do before I buy something like this is do my research. I'll look at all the options available. Write down the options I would like in a system. Look at all the systems to see which ones have the options I want. Sometimes it's a give and take. Find one that has all but one option and another that has THAT option but missing something else you want. You might come down to just one system. That would be nice. But if you come up with more than one. Compare them. Look on their Forums for the model you are considering. See if there are some common problems with them.
When I get the money, I'm going with the Viper 4204. It is just a remote start, but it can be upgraded to the smart start. If you wanted security added, then that would be something in the 5000 series. If you do go with the smart start, understand that there is a yearly subscription fee of about $50 a year. Remember, it uses a cell signal and data streaming. A lot of the customers that come in to the dealership I work at and get it installed Just don't get it sometimes.
I will advise against getting a system that has the LCD remote. Almost every one I have seen has broken, cracked or the LCD just takes a crap.
Btw, I am not advertising or am affiliated with any company to try and sell anything. This is just my observation and personal preference. Hope all this helps.
