Viper smart start vs ford remote access

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You can install the Ford one yourself but a dealer has to activate it.
 

Sitdown

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spirit

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The Viper (or Viper family -- I have a Clifford) is the way to go. I had one installed by the dealer (most likely sent-out to a local shop) on my 2011 when I purchased the truck.

Mine worked about 25% of the time also. I'm trying to remember the fix but it's been awhile ago. I believe it had something to do with the A/C, which would shut-off the truck when it came on or after a few minutes of running.

I'm fairly certain it was something like that but I can tell you that I took it to 2-3 shops before I found a competent alarm / low volt guy who could diagnose the problem. That field has long been known for idiots, as I'm sure our Calif Stereo guy will attest. In fact, he may be able to help you out with this problem.

I also remember they "buried" my second truck key (given by the dealer) to use with the system when they installed the alarm (also farmed-out by the dealer). You wouldn't believe the cluster-**** of wiring they did. There is a better way to do this I believe.

I hope my memory is correct on all this and it solves your problem. It was all very frustrating. I do know that a quick search for a reputable alarm guy will solve the problem. Nothing wrong with the alarm brand -- it's great.
 

The Car Stereo Company

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The Viper (or Viper family -- I have a Clifford) is the way to go. I had one installed by the dealer (most likely sent-out to a local shop) on my 2011 when I purchased the truck.

Mine worked about 25% of the time also. I'm trying to remember the fix but it's been awhile ago. I believe it had something to do with the A/C, which would shut-off the truck when it came on or after a few minutes of running.

I'm fairly certain it was something like that but I can tell you that I took it to 2-3 shops before I found a competent alarm / low volt guy who could diagnose the problem. That field has long been known for idiots, as I'm sure our Calif Stereo guy will attest. In fact, he may be able to help you out with this problem.

I also remember they "buried" my second truck key (given by the dealer) to use with the system when they installed the alarm (also farmed-out by the dealer). You wouldn't believe the cluster-**** of wiring they did. There is a better way to do this I believe.

I hope my memory is correct on all this and it solves your problem. It was all very frustrating. I do know that a quick search for a reputable alarm guy will solve the problem. Nothing wrong with the alarm brand -- it's great.
sounds like they used an old interface module. the new ones that have been out a couple years do not require a second key be buried and works seamlessly with the oem key. i have the 5904 with the gps smart start and have not had one issue to date. the install gets a bit complicated, so make sure the shop who installs it knows what they are doing.
 

New Guy

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To answer OP's question.

Is the VIPER on paper a better system? Yes.

Is the FORD Sys. better than the VIPER on paper? No.

I have the Ford Remote Access system and I love it even though it only provides the basics. Like Remote start, lock/unlock, and trigger alarm remotely aside from providing email/text alerts of customized events. No, it cannot do your windows or GPS locate your truck but I just wanted further OEM feel to my truck.

Hope that helps. Dealer charged me $450 for install, not including kit.
 

spirit

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sounds like they used an old interface module. the new ones that have been out a couple years do not require a second key be buried and works seamlessly with the oem key. i have the 5904 with the gps smart start and have not had one issue to date. the install gets a bit complicated, so make sure the shop who installs it knows what they are doing.

Yes, I think you're probably correct, I had mine installed in early 2011. As for the experienced techs, even a city the size of Phoenix is limited in the audio area. Sounds like you've been around the block, but for the most part, these other idiots are still operating like it's 1978 when their biggest concern was cutting a speaker hole properly in an exotic car. Times have changed in the audio business!
 

The Car Stereo Company

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Yes, I think you're probably correct, I had mine installed in early 2011. As for the experienced techs, even a city the size of Phoenix is limited in the audio area. Sounds like you've been around the block, but for the most part, these other idiots are still operating like it's 1978 when their biggest concern was cutting a speaker hole properly in an exotic car. Times have changed in the audio business!
i will be in phoenix sept 13th on my way to trr. if you want to meet up, i can show you how my system works

---------- Post added at 06:58 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:58 PM ----------

^^
Yeah Noah has been around the block a few times when it comes to audio.
you make it sound like im a *****.......



oh wait, i am...
 

Ricky B

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I don't want to sound ignorant, but I do admit I am not up to ***** on new technology, but what is the advantage of these systems that you speak of? Is it just being able to start the truck from your phone instead of the key? Are their other features involved? Thanks
 
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