I bought a 2022 Camry XSE that didn’t come with remote start. The dealer added an aftermarket one after I showed some interest. The car had everything else I wanted. After I bought it, I got the Toyota app on my phone. Turns out the remote start doesn’t work with the app. So now I’m paying for a year of the app just to lock and unlock the car. I kind of want to get rid of the app, but I do like being able to warm up the car while I get ready for work. Are there any aftermarket remote starts that work better with this setup?
From what I’ve seen, Toyota’s built-in remote start shuts the engine off when you open the door. That alone might make an aftermarket system a better choice. Also, if you stop paying for the Toyota app, you lose remote start through it.
I’ve been thinking about getting one for my 2022 and leaning toward aftermarket too.
@Beryl
My 2024 Camry XSE does the same. If I remote start it, the engine shuts off as soon as I open the door—something about safety. So yeah, aftermarket might be the better choice. After my free trial ended, I could still remote start it with the key fob though.
@Brooke
My husband’s 2025 XSE and my 2025 GHHL both stay running when we open the door. So maybe it’s different depending on the model or year.
@Beryl
I’ve got a 2024 4Runner and yeah, same thing—it shuts off when the door opens, which drives me crazy. But you can still start it with the key fob even without the app subscription. Just press the lock button three times.
@Beryl
It should still start from the key fob even without the app. I can’t remember if it’s the lock or unlock button you press three times on the 2025, but one of them works.
I got a Viper 2-way remote start from Best Buy for around $300. Living in Wisconsin, it’s definitely been worth it for the winters.
Marlon said:
I got a Viper 2-way remote start from Best Buy for around $300. Living in Wisconsin, it’s definitely been worth it for the winters.
I had the same one put in my 2021 a couple years back, also at Best Buy. Never had a single problem with it. I don’t use it all year, maybe just during winter, but it’s handy when I do.
It’s kind of silly… I get it’s for safety, but sometimes I just want to jump in and drive without the car shutting off, you know?
I put in my own remote start on my 2019 4Runner. Yeah, it turns off when I open the door, but I can still use the fob to start it. There’s a version that works through your phone too, but it costs more and I didn’t think it was worth it. Amazon.com: Start-X Plug N Play Remote Starter for 4Runner 2010-19, Sienna 2011-2020 | Push to Start Only | Lock 3X to Remote Start | 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 : Automotive
I’m thinking about getting the Compustar remote start. My 2022 Camry SE didn’t come with anything—not even the key fob start trick some Toyotas have. 