Bulldog AutoStart RS114
Written: Jan 19 '02
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Pros: Low price ($45 at Sam's); Works as advertised
Cons: Hard to install; No technical support; Documentation not accurate
The Bottom Line: Would recommend it only to hardcore do-it-yourselfers.
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| smata67's Full Review: Bulldog RS102/RS112/RS122 |
I have to admit I like pre-warming my car in the morning. This system works. My defroster is a pushbutton, though, so it doesn't do everything I would like it to. If your car heating system is like that (if you can't just turn a knob and leave so when you turn off your car) the system will not work for you, but I think all cars are set up that way, so it may not be an issue. The single remote that comes with the package has a door lock/unlock button and additional ones are available for $19. There are several more features--check their website.
The box says the installation is "easier" than before. This does not mean it is easy. Some technical knowledge is needed (electrical/circuit type) and the actual work itself is simple, but tedious and done in an uncomfortable position--your back will complain, no doubt. Basically, you remove the panel under your steering wheel to gain access to the ignition wiring harness and a few other wires in there if you want the alternate functions such as lock/unlock. You identify the wires one by one by testing (a tester is provided) and using the wiring identifier table in the documentation (or website--they will probably not match, so make sure you test each wire) provided for your particular car. I found my Haynes manual to be helpful, it had color coding information for some of the wires involved. You tap into each wire per the instructions and plug the product's harnesses into the module.
The installation took a total of about 6 hours. When you figure that an installed system is about $300, you've certainly earned yourself a night out after doing the job. Think about it, 6 hours sitting on your knees (get a knee pad), most of the time in a "hunched" over position. If the idea of doing this sounds harebrained, the installation is not for you.
Here is why I can't wholeheartedly recommend the system. Technical support is nonexistent. They do not answer calls or emails. I had problems finding my brake switch wire and eventually had to get the dealer to show me where it was. I drew on all of my resources to get this job done. I am the type of person who does everything himself--more so than the average, I think. Some people doing this job will run into problems and give up midway out of frustration (it happened to one or two persons who are also reviewing the product). The advertised technical support is a lie. That just rubs me the wrong way.
Another reason is that the documentation and materials provided do not cover everything you need to get the job done right. They do provide alot, but they really should provide everything you are going to need. As an example, my car (Avalon) requires a set of diodes to operate the lock/unlock function. Also, the brake light function to acknowledge that the system has received the start signal required a relay that was not included. Both of these had to be ordered (they were cheap, though). The limited instructions that came with the product did not warn me ahead of time (only said I might need them). Count on having to get into the project twice.
In conclusion, the system works and the price is right. Do not expect it to be easy and if you have any doubts whatsoever about your skill or commitment level, the job is probably not for you.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 45
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Epinions.com ID:
smata67
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Reviews written: 9
Trusted by: 0 members
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