While my car is the JDM version ('03), an alarm installer here was telling me that he's installed alarms w/ remote start on a G35 ('03), and had to use some bypass because the car only starts with key in the ignition (or near the ignition? because of some chip?). I just wanted to confirm with the G35 owners on here that this is the case. Anyone with any technical knowledge on the subject able to lend some input?

Thanks

JSY

 

Most new cars have a transmitter inside the head of the ignition key. This transmitter is powered, not by a battery, but by a magnetic field. This magnetic field is generated by a coil around the perimeter of the ignition key switch, and is powered up when you insert the key into the ignition.

When the transmitter is powered up, it sends a code. The code is very long and is impossible to receive from more than a few inches away due to the extremely low power of the transmitter. Fortunately, the antenna is next to the key switch, so the low power is not an issue.

If the key is cut correctly - is a correctly-shaped key - but the code is not received or is not the right code, the ECM doesn't allow starting, or igntion, or fuel, or all three (depending).

So, yes, he's telling the truth, and by the way, it makes your car just about impossible to steal without YOUR key or a flatbed truck.

 

Agreed. My understanding is that for our cars (and others with transponder keys) the remote starting device requires the transponder part of a key to be installed near the ignition in a special box or device. This allows the car to start without your key in the ignition and the remote device prevents the car from moving until you put your key in the ignition. The key that is put in the box can have the actual key part defaced or removed so it can't be ripped out and used to take your car. This means you lose the key that is put in the box and if you need it, it can cost about $150 to replace and reprogram.

 

Directed makes a kit for OEM retrofit for remote start. The facotry alarm is present, but you have to hit the unlock on the remote 3 times to start/stop the car. It does come with a transponder key code unit - and you can use the valey key.

I have on e in my car and for $175 installed - no complaints at all...

 

Thanks for the input guys. The alarm i have is actually the DEI Hornet (same as company Directed you mentioned?). My car came *almost* new from Japan, but one thing it didn't come with was a spare key. The guy mentioned needing my VIN number to try and get another one - though it was unclear at the time if it was absolutely necessary for the remote start install.