Archive: March 2013

3-21-13  When it comes to driving, vehicle safety should be first and foremost on the mind of all drivers.  We all know it’s not safe to text while driving and having your windows clear of snow and ice is incredibly important.  But have you thought about safety issues when your car is in reverse?  For many of us, it can be difficult to see exactly what’s behind us and the consequences can be horrific.  Fortunately, the quality and reliability of reverse safety systems have improved greatly.

There are several types of reverse safety systems now available.  Some systems use sensors that are installed on the rear bumper and use an audible signal to indicate when you’re close to something (or someone!).  Other systems use both audible and visual signals to warn you.  More sophisticated systems use a camera mounted on the rear bumper to literally show you the area behind your vehicle.   All of these systems can be installed as an aftermarket add on to your car.

A backup safety system is no substitute for attentive driving and a driver should always be cautious when backing up.  If you’d like to add a reverse sensing system to increase your safety precautions let us know.  We’d be happy to advise you on the best system for your vehicle.

3-7-13  We get many calls from customers who would like remote starters in their European made vehicles.  Often times these customers have been told by their dealership or mechanic that remote starters cannot be put in their vehicles. That information is true for many models but does not apply to all.  We have experience installing remote starters in Audi’s, Volkswagen’s, Volvo’s, Mercedes Benz and BMW’s.  These cars do require extra time and labor so the prices listed on our website do not apply.

For the most part, older model European vehicles are remote start compatible.  The issues lie with more recent models.  For instance, we’ve found that on newer Audi’s there is a clock spring that can be damaged when doing the remote start install.  For this reason, we will not work on those particular Audi’s.

On the other hand, we have custom remote start systems for Mercedes Benz vehicles that integrate perfectly with the factory wiring.

An extra key will be used in most remote start installs for European vehicles (except Mercedes Benz).  This key will be inserted into a module that is stored under the dash of your vehicle and integrated into the remote start wiring.  If you don’t have an extra key, we have a vendor that will come to our business and cut and program extra keys for your vehicle.  The cost can range from $80 – $150.

The bottom line is that remote starters in European vehicles require extra expertise and knowledge.  Dealer Automotive can provide both.  Please call us for a quote on your specific vehicle.