Congratulations on your purchase of the AutoCommand® OEM Series Remote Car Starter. The AutoCommand® OEM Series Remote Car Starter system allows you to start the car
by remote control from the comfort of your home or office in order to cool it down in the summer or heat it up in the winter.
®
AutoCommand
features.
• Will start your car by remote control, and run the heater, defroster, or
air conditioner to warm up or cool down the car.
• Is designed to start the car if it is in park, and only if the hood is
closed.
• Has Lock, Unlock and Trunk keyless entry features.
• Will attempt to start the car for up to six seconds, but no longer (to
avoid damage to the starter motor). Should the car not start, or if it
stalls after starting, the remote starter will make two further attempts
to start it.
• Has alarm functions including starter kill which becomes active when
the doors are locked with the remote control.
• Will not let the car be driven without the key in the ignition.
• Shuts itself off automatically after 10 or 15 minutes (programmable) if
you forget to come out to your car.
OEM Series is for automatic transmission/fuel injected vehicles only. It is an extremely sophisticated system with multiple built-in safety and security
AutoCommand® OEM Series Car Starter:
• Will shut off if the brake pedal is pushed, the hood is opened, or the
transmission is shifted out of park - unless the key is in the ignition and
in the “run” position.
• Allows you to remove the key while leaving the car running with the
doors locked for up to 10 or 15 minutes utilizing the Quick Stop™ Option. (See Separate User Tip Sheet)
• Starts the car automatically whenever the temperature drops below
0
F (-18°C), or if the battery voltage drops below 11 volts when the
°
Cold Start™ Option is used. (See Separate User Tip Sheet)
• Has the “Daily Start™” feature which allows the vehicle to be started
at the same time the following day. (See Separate User Tip Sheet)
• Is quality engineered and microprocessor controlled to provide many
years of reliable use.
• Comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Tools required to install the AutoCommand® OEM Series Unit:
Wire Cutters/Strippers
Soldering Iron
Pliers
Test meter
We highly recommend that all connections be soldered for reliability.
Electrical Tape
Screwdriver
Drill with1/4”and 5/16”
drill bits
Parts List included with the AutoCommand® OEM Series Unit:
* For free vehicle specific wire information, consult
our website at www.designtech-intl.com
v5.3 J2428
On cars with airbags, you may notice bright yellow tubes or harnesses
marked SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) underneath the steering
column area. DO NOT tamper with these wires in any way, to prevent
personal injury and/or damage to the air bag system.
Battery gases are explosive.
Do not smoke while working near the car’s battery.
Note: Some installers connect a battery charger to the vehicle’s battery during
installation. This is fine, but it must be removed before running the vehicle under
remote starter control.
All General Motors (GM), rear wheel drive vehicles built prior to 1995
with automatic transmissions and Dodge Dakota trucks (4 cylinder
engines only) with automatic transmissions built prior to 1996 have a
MECHANICAL TYPE of NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH. See important
warning on the last page of these instructions.
When running the wires through the car’s firewall, be sure to protect
them from sharp metal edges and from hot surfaces on and around the
engine.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
1. Before You Start
Take time to read through the whole installation manual before beginning.
Always leave a window open to avoid locking your keys in your car.
IMPORTANT:
putting the yellow WARNING STICKER in the engine compartment. Choose
a surface that is clean and readily visible when the hood is open.
hors fonction avant d’eflectuer toute opération d’entretien ou de réparation!
After having read the entire manual, start the installation by
This car is equipped with a remote control starting device.
Ce véhicule est équipé d’un systéme de démarrage a distance. Mettez-le
WARNING
Disable before working on car!
AVERTISSEMENT
POWER & IGNITION HARNESS
The remote starter module will be installed under the dash once all wiring has been
completed. Do not mount the module at this time! You will need to checkthe red diagnostic LED light as the installation progresses.
a hole in the firewall to run the PURPLE and GREEN wires of the Control Harness
and the PINK wire of the
Power Harness into the engine compartment. The
remaining short wires stay in the passenger area. Leave about a foot of the wire
harness under the dash for ease of working and visual access to the diagnostic
light.
The Installation Information section of
www.designtech-intl.com is available 24
hours/day to provide you with free, up-to-date vehicle wiring information for your
particular vehicle after you log in.
Note: Always connect the PINK and BLACK wires before connecting any of the
other wires. Do not insert the fuse until Step 11.
2. Black Wire (16 AWG) – Ground
Connect the BLACK
panel area. Use the small ring terminal. (The thin metal bracing around or beneath
the dash board is not always adequate.)
wire to a very good, clean chassis ground in the driver’s kick
3. Pink Wire (12 AWG) – Power (+12 Volts)
Connect the ring terminal at the end of the short PINK
of the battery. Run the long PINK wire through the firewall of your vehicle. Join the
remaining ends of the power wire together by soldering them. Tape with electrical
tape to leave no exposed wires. Alternatively, you may wish to use the yellow butt
connector, but we recommend soldering. Wait to insert the 30 amp green fuse into
the holder until Step 11. As the power is first applied to the unit the red diagnostic
LED light will blink once.
v5.3 J2428
wire to the +12 Volt terminal
Locate (or drill)
Note: Failure to properly install the fuse holder and 30 amp fuse to the PINK wire
to the battery voids all product warranties.
Ignition Key Diagram for Steps 4-7
The vehicle’s wires are found coming off of the key
switch. Remove the panel under the steering column to
access these wires.
4. Blue Wire (14 AWG) – Ignition 1
Connect the BLUE wire to the ignition 1 wire of your vehicle. This wire will measure
+12 Volts on the test meter in the “run” and
“start” position, and is off in the “lock/
off” and “accessory” positions.
5. Green (14 AWG) – Ignition 2
Connect the GREEN wire to the Ignition 2 wire in the vehicle. The Ignition 2 wire can
function in several different ways in your vehicle. It is important to understand how
it works. The Ignition 2 wire will usually measure +12 Volts in the “run” position
and is off (ground) in the “lock/off” and “accessory” positions. In certain vehicles,
it may also show +12 Volts in the “Start” position or Ignition 2 may turn OFF during
“Crank” and turn back ON after the starter disengages. Carefully note the function
of the Ignition 2 wire. If the Ignition 2 turns OFF during “Crank”, set Option #4
(section 24). If Ignition 2 stays ON during “Crank,” no options need to be changed.
6. White Wire (14 AWG) – Accessory
Connect the WHITE wire to the accessory wire which is +12 Volts in the “run” and
“accessory” position, but off in the “start” and “off” positions. In GM vehicles,
connect the white wire to the orange wire that is hot in “run” only.
7. Yellow (14 AWG) – Starter
Connect the
the test meter in the “start” position only.
Note: Most Nissan vehicles have two starter wires. Connect both starter wires of
the vehicle to the
YELLOW wire to the starter wire. This wire will measure +12 Volts on
YELLOW start wire of the remote starter.
8A. Plug-In On/0ff Switch
Mount the control switch so that it is easily accessible and so that the “ON”
position is facing upward. Make sure there is enough clearance behind the
mounted switch for the wire connections. Do not let the switch wires touch ground.
Do not plug the switch into the unit until it is mounted first. Connection of this
switch is mandatory. Use a 1/4" drill-bit for the mounting hole.
Plug the ON/OFF control switch into the module just to the right of the power wires.
Turn the switch on.
8B. Plug-In LED Light
Drill a 5/16" hole in to the dash or panel to mount the LED light and plug the LED
light plug into the red connector. Mounting the LED light is not mandatory but the
LED light is used for alarm status, troubleshooting and programming options.
CONTROL HARNESS
ALL WIRES ARE THE SMALLER 18 AWG SIZE
9. Purple Wire – Hood Pin Switch – Control Harness
The hood pin switch MUST be installed with the remote
starter. It prevents operation of the remote starter when
the hood is open and is used to initialize the unit.
Connect the PURPLE wire to the hood pin switch using
the red connector.
Note:
If you already have a hood pin switch which is
being used by a car alarm system, you may share the
wiring – but be sure to diode isolate each wire going to
the hood pin switch with the bands of diodes pointing
towards the pin switch as shown at right.
10. Orange Wire – Brake Shut-off – Control Harness
Connect the ORANGE wire to the brake wire which receives +12 Volts when the
brake pedal is depressed. This wire must be connected. It arms a critical
safety feature which disables the remote starter when the brake pedal is depressed.
Note: In some cars, the ignition must be in the “on” position to test the power in the
brake wire.
Note: If the Ignition 1 and Ignition 2 wires come on whenever the brake is depressed
and the hood is open this just means you need to initialize the unit in section 11.
11. Initializing the Remote Starter
BEFORE THE UNIT WILL DO ANYTHING FOR THE FIRST TIME, YOU MUST
INITIALIZE THE REMOTE STARTER
A. Insert the 30 amp fuse into the fuse holder on the large PINK wire.
B. Turn the control switch on.
C. The remote starter requires the installer to open the hood and then press and
hold the brake pedal. Note: The ignition/dash lights will come on if the unit
is not initialized.
D. While depressing the brake (with the engine off and the hood open) turn the
ignition key to the “RUN” (not “start”) position.
E. Put the car in “DRIVE” from the “PARK” position.
F. Put the car back in “PARK” and release the brake.
G. Turn the key off and remove the key.
Note:
Confirm initialization by turning the ON/OFF control switch “OFF” and then
“ON”. The red LED light on the remote start module will flash once immediately as
the switch is flipped from the “OFF” to the “ON” position.
If the red LED light did not flash when the control switch was turned “ON” REPEAT
STEPS A THROUGH G. See the colored Trouble Shooting Sheets if necessary.
12A. Green Wire – Tach Input – Control Harness
The remote starter has two ways of monitoring the car during the starting process.
Both ways will ensure a clean, accurate start. Read about both methods before
deciding which one to use. Normally you should try the “No Tach
™
method first.
“No Tach™” Starting
This starting method does not require the connection of the GREEN tach wire. This
method will start the car by reading the car’s voltage before attempting to start, and
then looking for a voltage increase when the alternator kicks in. This feature
automatically takes into account voltage, temperature, and the time since the
vehicle was last run. The “No-Tach
””
™
”
””
starting is preset at the factory and you can
skip step 12B if you would like to use it. Note that if the vehicle is hard to start, set
Option #3 (section 24) for “extended crank.”
Tachometer sensing
If the vehicle is generally hard to start (i.e. requiring a cranking time of more than
1 second) you will get more accurate starting with the tachometer sensing starting
method. This method starts the car by reading the engine speed (tach) information
from a wire under the hood. If you choose tachometer sensing, connect the GREEN
(18 awg) wire to the car’s tach wire under the hood (normally the negative side of the
coil or tach output of coil pack). After you have connected the GREEN wire, you
need to teach the remote starter the vehicle’s tach rate at idle. Proceed to step 12B.
Note:
You must have already initialized the remote starter from Step 11.
12B. Tach Rate Learning
Note:
Only use if the tachometer sensing method is chosen.
A. Connect the GREEN wire to the car’s tach wire under the hood.
B. Turn the On/Off control switch to the “OFF” position. Wait 5 seconds for the red
LED light flashes to stop.
C. Program the unit to the tach mode by pushing the White “option” button once
and watching the red LED light flash. Now push the start button on the
transmitter for a second until you see the red LED light flash again. You are now
in TACH mode. (If the red LED light flashed twice or sometimes three times –
simply push the transmitter button again until you get only one flash).
D. Wait 5 seconds for the red LED light to flash 3 times.
E. Turn the On/Off control switch back to the “ON” position
normal
F. Start the car with the key and let it get to a
idle. Do not press on the gas
pedal.
G. Push the red “code learn” button for a second.
H. Watch the red LED light. It will come on after 3 or 4 seconds, indicating that the
tach idle rate has been learned.
I. Watch that the LED light remains on as the vehicle is running and turns off
when you rev the engine RPMs to twice the idle rate. The LED light must go out
when you rev the engine to about twice the idle rate to confirm correct tach
learning.
J. Turn the key to the “Lock/Off” position.
K. Turn the ON/OFF control switch off and the red LED light will go out. You are
now finished.
Note: Once these steps are complete – you cannot use the LED to confirm tach
again. You can however repeat the above steps to learn tach over again at any time.
OPTIONAL STEPS
13. Yellow Wire – Headlights/Parking Lights – Control
Harness
Connection of the YELLOW wire allows you to activate the low beam headlights
or parking lights for remote start and lock status. After the remote starter has
started the car, the lights will remain on until the remote starter shuts off after 10
minutes, or when the brake pedal is pushed, or when the car is put into gear.
is a relay +12 Volts output. Connect the
YELLOW wire to the wire that has power
when the lights are on.
14. Blue – Horn/Siren – Control Harness
The BLUE wire signals the horn to honk (or siren to chirp) once each time the remote
starter starts the vehicle and each time the locks are locked or unlocked. Connect
the blue wire to the factory horn wire which is often found running down the steering
”
column. It will normally show +12 Volts at rest and the voltage will disappear when
the horn is honked. This is
a 400 mA transistor
Positive Horn/Siren Relay
ground output which
MUST drive a relay if
using a siren or
positively triggered
horn. Option #11 (section
24) must be changed when
using a siren.
15. Brown/White – Alarm Disable/Starter Kill – Control
Harness
The BROWN/WHITE wire is Alarm Disable, which will give out a quick negative
pulse just before starting the vehicle. This wire can be used to turn off the factory
alarm system in vehicles which have them. In most vehicles, this wire is located
in the driver’s kick panel.
Using Option #19 (section 24) you can set this to Starter Kill. This option prevents
the vehicle from being started with the key when the alarm is armed. It is also
active whenever the vehicle is running under remote starter control to provide antigrind protection.
Starter Kill Relay
Starter Wire
From Key
Switch
Yellow Start Wire
From Remote Starter
Remote Starter
Brown / White
Wire
Cut
87
87A
86
85
30
3
Starter Wire
To Starter
Motor
Tap into Blue
IGN1 Wire from
Remote Starter
This
v5.3 J2428
16. White/Black Wire – Ignition #3 – Control Harness
The WHITE/BLACK
Ignition 2 relay outputs (active in
the “run” and “crank” positions).
This wire is a 400 mA negative
transistor output and MUST be
set up to power a relay
included). It can be used to power
the third ignition wire at the key
(necessary for most Ford vehicles).
This is the wire that can also be used to bypass a passive vehicle anti-theft system
by hooking it up to the Universal Bypass Module. See the Factory Anti-Theft
System section at the end of these instructions.
wire, is a ground output that acts just like the Ignition 1 or
(not
White/Black Wire
From
Remote Starter
Ignition 3
87
87A
85
30
To LARGE 12 Volt
Constant Wire
(Found in Ignition
Switch Wire
Harness)
86
To Additional
Ignition Wire
(in vehicle)
17A. Yellow and White – Keyless Entry Wires – 3 Wire Harness
Determine the polarity of your door lock system by using a test meter. For NEGATIVE
locks (the lock wire sees a ground signal briefly as the electric locks are locked) –
connect the YELLOW wire to the Unlock wire and the WHITE wire to the Lock wire.
For POSITIVE locks (the lock wire sees a +12 volt signal briefly as the electric
locks are locked but does not see ground when they are inactive) connect the
YELLOW wire to the Lock wire and the WHITE wire to the Unlock wire.
For REVERSING POLARITY (the lock wires sees a +12 volt signal briefly as the
electric locks are locked and sees a ground signal when they are inactive) follow
the diagram below:
Reversing Polarity Door Locks
(Actuator Side)
Cut
87
87A
30
To 12 Volt
Constant
(15 Amp Fused)
86
Yellow Wire
From
Remote Starter
3-pin Harness
Vehicle Unlock Wire
(Primary Switch Side)
Unlock Relay
Cut
87
87A
85
30
(Actuator Side)
86
To 12 Volt
Constant
(15 Amp Fused)
White Wire
From
Remote Starter
3-pin Harness
Vehicle Lock Wire
(Primary Switch Side)
Lock Relay
85
Most VACUUM operated door lock systems require Option #18 (section 24) for Long
locks to be set.
17B. Green Wire – Trunk Release – 3 Wire Harness
The GREEN
output when the unlock button is held for 4 seconds. Again, this is a 400 mAtransistor ground output which MUST drive a relay (not included).
Brown Wire
Remote Starter
wire is the Trunk Release output which gives out a transistor ground
Negative Trunk Release
From
87
87A
85
30
86
Ground (-)
To 12 Volt
Constant
(15 Amp Fused)
To Trunk Release
(in vehicle)
Positive Trunk Release
Brown Wire
From
Remote Starter
87
87A
85
86
30
To 12 Volt
Constant
(15 Amp Fused)
To Positive
Trunk Release
(in vehicle)
18. Brown Wire – Accessory Pulse/Dome Light – Control
Harness
The BROWN
transistor ground output 10 seconds after the vehicle is remotely started. This is
important in some vehicles to control the defroster or to control the GM R.A.P.
system. Again, this is a 400 mA transistor ground output which MUSTdrive a relay (not included).
Brown Wire
Remote Starter
v5.3 J2428
wire is the Accessory Pulse output which gives out a momentary,
Negative Dome Light
From
85
Ground (-)
87
To 12 Volt
87A
Constant
86
30
(15 Amp Fused)
To Negative
Door Pin
(in vehicle)
Brown Wire
From
Remote Starter
Positive Dome Light
(Most Ford Vehicles)
87
87A
85
30
To 12 Volt
Constant
(15 Amp Fused)
86
To Positive
Door Pin
(in vehicle)
This BROWN wire can also control a relay for Dome Light activation. When Option
#20 (section 24) is changed, this BROWN wire causes the dome light to turn on for
25 seconds every time the doors are unlocked with the transmitter.
19. Red/White Wire – Door Pin Alarm Input – Control Harness
The RED/WHITE wire is the Door Pin Alarm Input. This wire will accept any input
that supplies a negative (ground) when activated. (Most door pins go to ground
when the door is open, +12 Volts when closed.)
Most Ford vehicles are positive door pins that switch to +12 Volts when opened, you
will need to reverse the polarity before connecting to this RED/WHITE wire. Change
Option #23 (section 24) Negative/Positive Door Pin Switch.
The alarm is “Last door arming.” You should diode isolate the inputs of two or more
sensors on the same input wire.
If you choose not to use this alarm feature then permanently ground this
wire or program “No Alarm” Option #24 (section 24).
20. Red/Black Wire Diesel “wait to start” Control Harness
This wire is only used in diesel vehicle applications –
wire can be hooked up to the “wait to start” light’s switched wire behind the dash.
If Option #9 (section 24) is set, this wire will feed information to the remote starter
as to when to crank the vehicle over. This wire is not polarity sensitive.
and is optional. This
REQUIRED FINAL STEPS
Note: You must have hooked up all required wires and completed Initialization
(Step 11) to proceed forward.
21. Trying the Unit Out
WARNING: Be prepared to apply the brake during this testing.
A. Close the hood and fully apply the emergency brake
B. Place the vehicle in Park.
C. Turn the On/Off switch off then on – the red LED light will flash once.
D. Once all the wiring is checked and is correct, press the Start button on the
transmitter.
E. The car should start and continue to run for ten minutes. Make sure that the
engine shuts down if the car is shifted out of park, the hood is opened, the brake
is pressed or the start button is pushed again. If the car does not start, see the
Code Learning section under Special Cases.
22. The Antenna
Feed the antenna around under the dash and up the inside of the right or left
windshield post and over the top of the windshield. Clean the windshield with the
alcohol pad provided for maximum adhesion. Mount the last eight inches of the
antenna behind the rear view mirror. The more exposed the end of the antenna is, the
better the range performance. Now plug the end of the antenna into the remote
starter module. In most vehicles you will get better range performance if the
antenna is pointing vertically downward from the top of the windshield.
The wiring section of the installation is now complete. Be sure to
Note:
cap all unused wires so as to prevent short circuits, and mount the module
securely under the dash. When tying up and mounting the unit, be sure to
avoid any moving parts (steering column, pedals) and sharp edges.
23. Trouble Shooting with the Self Diagnostics
The remote starter contains a built in diagnostic routine that will indicate why the
unit started or why the unit turned off the car the last time that the unit was used.
To activate the diagnostic mode for why it turned off, simply turn the On/Off
control switch to the “OFF” position. In a few seconds, the red LED light on the
module will flash 1 to 12 times to identify the problem. See the chart on the next
page for an explanation of the flashes:
1 flash10/15 minute time out. Unit should be fine. Make sure transmitter is
2 flashesUnit turned off because Brake or Hood was activated. Check to make
sure the hood pin switch is depressed when the hood is closed and
the correct brake wire is hooked up.
3 flashesNo Tach or Stalled. Review section 12 and make sure the no tach/tach
wire option is programmed correctly.
4 flashesReceived another remote input from the transmitter
5 flashesTransmission was shifted into gear. Move the In-Gear switch inside
the receiver module to the OFF position (see diagram below for
location of In-Gear switch inside module case).
6 flashesLow battery voltage, or may be missing an ignition wire which
powers up the alternator
7 flashesAlarm Input triggered
8 flashesOver current – One of the 400 mA (-) transistor outputs (Accessory
Pulse, Alarm Disarm, Starter kill, lock, unlock, horn, lights, trunk, or
Ignition 3) of the control or 3 pin harness is drawing too much current.
Make sure to use a relay where necessary.
12 flashes The Control Switch was turned off while the starter was running.
For reasons why it last started, simply put your foot on the brake while you turn the
control switch OFF. Keep holding the brake down until the flashes start. The codes
are as follows:
1 flashThe unit has not started yet since it was last powered up.
2 flashesReceived a radio signal from the transmitter to start.
3 flashesN/A
o
4 flashesTemp reached 0
F in vacation mode.
5 flashesVoltage reached 11 volts in Vacation Mode.
6 flashesReceived a start command from the remote input RED/BLACK wire.
7 flashesStarted from 24 hour Daily Start feature.
24A. Setting Program Features
The remote starter unit has many special features available. You will not need to
use these special features in most situations. The factory settings will operate
most vehicles. You must turn the On/Off control switch to the “OFF” positionto program any features.
Note: When turning off this control switch, the red LED light will flash a few times,
giving the diagnostic code described in section 23. Wait a few seconds for it to
finish before programming your new Options.
1“No-Tach”Tach Mode
210 Min. Run Time15 Min. Run Time
3Normal CrankExtended Crank
4NormalIGN 2 not active during crank
5Normal Voltage MeteringIgnore Voltage Metering
6Gasoline vehiclesDiesel vehicles
7“Enable” featureNo “Enable”
8NormalDaytime Running Lights
9NormalDiesel “Wait to Start”
101 sec. alarm disarm pulse0.45 sec. Alarm disarm pulse
11Horn PulsingSiren Constant
12Chirp with LocksSilent lock/Unlock/Start
13ActivePassive Arming
14NormalLock Follow ignition
15NormalUnlock Follow ignition
16NormalDouble Pulse Lock
17NormalDouble Pulse Unlock
18Short LocksLong Locks
19Alarm DisableStarter Kill
20Accessary PulseDome Light
21N/AN/A
22N/AN/A
23Negative Door PinPositive Door Pin Switch
24Alarm ModeNo Alarm Mode
25-18½C/0½F-25½C/-13½F
26Normal 3-Hour5-Hour Interval
27NormalAuto Rearm
28NormalSilent Lock/Unlock Only
29N/AN/A
30N/AN/A
31Reset All Options
24B. Program Features Descriptions
Option #1
This option sets the starting method. The factory setting uses “No-Tach” starting. If
you wish to use the tach to start, follow the instructions in the Tach Rate Learning
(section 12B).
Option #2
This option gives you a choice of run times.
Option #3
This option will add 50% more crank time to the NoTach™ starting feature.
Option #4
This option will turn off the Ignition 2 output (thick GREEN wire) during cranking. It
is used to exactly match the remote starter with the ignition key function.
Option #5
This option is used in the “No-Tach” starting method for some diesel vehicles or
vehicles with weak batteries and/or poorly performing altenators.
Option #6
This option must be activated when installing on a diesel vehicle.
Option #7
This option cancels the “enable” mode safety feature. The “enable” mode
requires that the driver toggle the ON/OFF control switch “OFF” then “ON”
each time the driver removes the key from the ignition in order to “enable”
the vehicle for remote starter control. This feature guards against undesired
starting of the vehicle by remote control. You must keep this option as
enable on all GM rear wheel drive and Dodge Dakota vehicles manufactured
prior to 1996.
Option #8
This option will automatically turn the headlights on (for safety) about 10 seconds
after it sees the key in the ignition position – and automatically turn the headlights
off when the key is removed from the ignition.
This option will control the time before cranking the diesel vehicle by looking at the
“wait to start” light of the vehicle. Simply hook the RED/BLACK Input wire of
section 20 up to the wire behind the “wait to start” light. Also set Option #6 (section
24) for diesel vehicles.
Option #10
1 sec. Alarm Disarm Pulse0.45 sec. Alarm Disarm Pulse
This option shortens the Alarm Disarm Pulse from 1 second to 0.45 second. This
feature is very useful with some Dodge/Chrysler vehicles that use a multiplexed
system to disarm the alarm and unlock the doors with the same wire. Using this
feature should eliminate the need to relock the doors after the alarm has been
disarmed and the vehicle is remotely started.
Option #11
Horn PulsingSiren Constant
This option changes the thin BLUE wire from pulsing output for horn to constant
output for a siren.
Option #12
Chirp with LocksSilent lock/Unlock/Start
This option will eliminate the chirp with Start, Lock and Unlock.
Option #13
Active ArmingPassive Arming
The factory setting of Active Arming requires the owner to actively arm the car with
the remote control. Choosing the option of Passive Arming will cause the vehicle
to automatically arm after the key is removed and the door is closed.
Option #14
NormalLock Follow Ignition
Selecting this option will automatically lock the doors when the key is turned on,
doors closed and the brake is depressed.
Option #15
NormalUnlock Follow Ignition
Selecting this option will automatically unlock doors when key is removed from
ignition.
Option #16
NormalDouble Pulse Lock
This option will pulse the lock output wire twice instead of once for normal mode.
Option #17
NormalDouble Pulse Unlock
This option will pulse the unlock output wire twice instead of once for normal mode.
Option #18
Short lock pulseLong lock pulse
This option will increase the door lock pulse time from 0.6 second to 3 seconds for
vehicles with vacuum locking systems (older European vehicles).
Option #19
Alarm DisableStarter Kill
The factory setting of Alarm Disable will give you a quick pulse whenever the
transmitter unlocks the doors or the transmitter is used to start the vehicle. The
Starter Kill option comes on and stays on whenever the remote starter is running or
the alarm is armed. This wire controls a relay which opens up the path of the starter
wire (refer to section 15).
Option #20
Accessory PulseDome Lamp
Accessory pulse puts out a brief pulse output after the remote starter starts or stops
the vehicle. When set, this output can be used to turn on a defroster that requires
a momentary pulse or could be used to control GM R.A.P. (retained accessory
power) output. Dome lamp option will turn this output on when you unlock the door
for 25 seconds. (Refer to section 18).
Option #23
Negative Door PinPositive Door Pin Switch
This option changes the polarity of RED/WHITE alarm input wire. (Most Ford vehicles
use a positive door pin switch.)
Option #24
AlarmNo Alarm
This feature can disable all alarm functions if the alarm features are not desired.
Option #27
NormalAuto Rearm
This option will automatically relock the doors and rearm the alarm if the doors are
not physically opened within 2 minutes of unlocking and disarming the alarm with
the transmitter.
Option #28
NormalSilent Lock/Unlock Only
This option will remove the notification chirps for lock and unlock only. The unit will
still chirp for remote start.
Option #31
Reset all Options
This option resets all options back to the factory settings.
PROGRAMMING AN OPTION
If you want the factory setting, DO NOTHING and skip this section. If you want to
change one or more of the features, TURN THE ON/OFF CONTROL SWITCH TO THE
“OFF” POSITION. Wait for the red LED light to stop flashing, then continue
with the following procedures:
A.For options 1-9: Push the white code button on the remote start module.
Each time you push the button the red LED light will flash 1 to 9 times
signifying at which feature you are (press it once, the LED light flashes once.
Press it again and it will flash two times. Press it again and it will flash three
times, etc., to show what feature you are at).
For options 10-19: Push the red code button on the remote start module. You
will see the LED light flash a long blink. This is option 10. You can scroll to
option 11 by pressing the white button once – you will see a long blink
followed by one short blink. You can scroll to option 12 by pushing the white
button again – one long and two short blinks brings you to option 12.
For options 20-29: Push the red code button twice to get the two long blinks
– you are now at option 20. Push the white button to jump ahead to option 21
– two long blinks and one short blink. Push three more times to get to option
24 – two long and four short blinks.
For options 30-31: Push the red code button three times to get three long
blinks – you are now at option 30. Push the white button once to jump to option
31 (three long blinks and one short blink).
B.When you are at the feature level you desire, push the start button on the
transmitter for one second and the red LED light will flash once to signify
you are at the Option setting. You can push the transmitter button again
and it will flash twice to signify you are at the Factory setting. Push the
transmitter button again and you will go back to the Option setting.
C.You can choose to change another feature by starting over again at Step A.
After six seconds, the remote starter automatically exits the programming
mode (three LED light flashes).
D.When finished – switch the Control Switch back ON. The red LED light will
flash once.
25. External shock sensor hook up (optional):
Plug the shock sensor unit into the 4 wire connector on the front side of the remote
module. Use one or two cable ties to tightly fasten the shock sensor unit to the
start
steering column of the vehicle. Make sure that the sensor does not affect thedriver's ability to steer the vehicle.
This placement gives the best overall
coverage for a vehicle. Adjust the
screw(s) so that a hard impact on the
vehicle triggers the full alarm and light
impacts just trigger the warn away. (This
input may not work with all types of
alarm sensors.)
4-Pin External Alarm Input
Power Harness
on this side
1234
1. Warn Away
2. Full Alarm
3. Ground
4. +12 Volts Constant
Option #25
-18½C/0½F-25½C/-13½F
This option changes the start temperature for the Vacation Option.
Option #26
Normal 3-Hour5-Hour Interval
This option changes the minimum wait time between starts for the Vacation Option.
Many of the optional steps require a relay to be hooked up. The most common relay
used for this type application is the Bosch type relay (Radio Shack Cat.# 275-226).
Use the diagram below for a typical hookup. If you have another relay then you need
to know that pins 85 and 86 in this diagram relate to the coils of the relay. Pin 30
is the ‘common’, and pin 87 is the ‘normally open’ contact. If your relay has a pin
87A in the middle it is the normally closed contact and may or may not be used in
the application. (The diagram below is typical for an Ignition 3 or trunk application).
To supply Ground (-) outputTo supply +12 volt output
+12 V
To Ground
4. Factory Anti-Theft Systems
Many vehicles come with an anti-theft system that must be temporarily bypassed
for the vehicle to be remotely started. Some systems use a resistor in the key.
Others use a transponder – a small device in the key that communicates a high
security code to the vehicle before the vehicle will successfully start.
Check the list of vehicles and the types of security systems that follows. If your
vehicle is listed, your vehicle has an Anti-Theft System that the remote starter
MUST temporarily bypass in order to start the vehicle. More information about the
factory anti-theft systems and vehicle wire colors can be found at the DesignTech
www.designtech-intl.com.
Website
The Universal Alarm Bypass Module (model numbers 20402 or 29402) will temporarily
bypass the factory anti-theft systems when using the remote starter. Check with
your local retailer/installer to purchase this Universal Alarm Bypass Module.
From
Remote
Starter
(-)
87
30
85
To Vehicle's Accessory
86
+12 V
From
Remote
Starter
(-)
2. Code Learning
Your transmitter is factory coded to the remote starter module with over 16,000,000
different codes. The remote starter module can learn the codes of up to 4 different
transmitters. If you want to add additional transmitters to the receiver or if it doesnot respond to your transmitter – follow the steps below to teach the receiver
the transmitter code(s):
A. Turn the Control Switch ON.
B. Push the red "code learn" button to the right of the red LED light. The red LED
light and the dash lights come on for a second. (The vehicle's ignition and
accessory wires come on).
C. While holding the transmitter at least three feet from the module, hold down the
Start button (on a five button transmitter) or the lock/unlock button (on a three
button transmitter) until the red LED light and the dash lights come on again for
a second. The module has now learned the transmitter code. Release the
transmitter button.
D. To learn additional transmitters (up to 3 more), immediately (within 5 seconds)
push the Start button (on a five button transmitter) or the lock/unlock button (on
a three button transmitter) on another transmitter for a few seconds until the red
LED light and the dash lights come on for a second again.
E. 5 seconds after the last time the transmitter was learned the unit exits the
code-learning stage. (The red LED light, ignition and accessories flash 4 times).
Note:
Teaching the module a new transmitter code will erase all previous codes so all transmitters must be taught. You have only 5 seconds between transmitters
to begin teaching a new transmitter.
3. Diesel Vehicles
For the most relible starting, hook up the RED/BLACK wire referenced in section 20.
For difficult starting diesels connect and learn the tach (section 12) as well as the
wait-to-start RED/BLACK wire (section 20). Set Option #6 (section 24) for diesel.
For most diesel vehicles, you can start the vehicle without needing to hook up a
tach wire. The following table provides the mandatory option settings for “no-tach”
operation in diesel vehicles. (Use the Chrysler settings for all other diesel vehicles.)
Option #6Option #3Option #5
DieselExtendedIgnore
EngineCrankMeter
Chrysler■■
Ford■■■
87
30
85
To Vehicle's Accessory
86
+12 V
List of vehicles and the types of factory anti-theft systems:
Vehicle:Vehicle:
Vehicle:
Vehicle:Vehicle:
Acura 3.2TL 98+Transponder
Audi A4,A6,A8 98+Transponder
Acura CL 97+Transponder
Acura IntegraTransponder
Acura NSXTransponder
Acura RL 98+Transponder
BMW (all 97 +)Transponder
Buick LeSabre 90 - 01VATS
Buick Park Ave 91 - 96VATS
Buick Park Ave 97+Transponder
Buick Regal 93 -96VATS
Buick Rendez VousTransponder
Buick Riviera 93 -96VATS
Buick Roadmaster 93 - 96VATS
Buick Skylark 96-98Passlock
Cadillac AllanteVATS
Cadillac BroughamVATS
Cadillac Catera 97+Transponder
Cadillac DeVille 92 - 98VATS
Cadillac DeVille 99+Transponder
Cadillac Eldorado 89 - 98VATS
Cadillac Eldorado 99+Transponder
Cadillac Escalade 00+Passlock
Cadillac Fleetwood 90 - 96VATS
Cadillac Seville 90 - 98VATS
Cadillac Seville 99+Transponder
Chevrolet Astro Van 98+Passlock II
Chevrolet Avalanche 01Passlock
Chevrolet Blazer 98+Passlock II
Chevrolet Camaro 86 +VATS
Chevrolet Cavalier 96-99Passlock
Chevrolet Cavalier 2000+PasslockII
Chevrolet Corvette 88 +VATS
Chevrolet Express 97+Passlock
Chevrolet Impala 2000+Passlock II
Chevrolet Lumina 96 -99VATS
Chevrolet Malibu 97 -01Passlock II
Chevrolet Monte Carlo 96-99VATS
Chevrolet Monte Carlo 00+Passlock II
Chevrolet Pickup Full-size 98+Passlock II
Chevrolet S-10 98+Passlock II
Chevrolet Silverado HD 01PasslockII
Chevrolet SSR 01Passlock
Chevrolet Suburban 98+Passlock II
Chevrolet Tahoe 98+Passlock II
Chevrolet Trailblazer 01+PasslockII
Chevrolet Van 98+Passlock II
Chevrolet Venture 99+Transponder
Chrysler Concorde 98+Transponder
Chrysler LHS 99+Transponder
Chrysler PT Cruiser 00+Transponder
Chrysler Sebring Conv. 98+Transponder
Daewoo LeganzaTransponder
Dodge 300 M 99+Transponder
Dodge Intrepid 98+Transponder
Dodge Neon 00+Transponder
Ford Contour 97 +Transponder
Ford Crown Victoria 98+ (option) Transponder
Ford Excursion 01+Transponder
Ford Expedition 97+Transponder
Ford Explorer 98+Transponder
Ford Focus 01+Transponder
Ford Mustang 98+Transponder
Ford Pick Up (optional)Transponder
Ford Ranger 99+(optional)Transponder
Ford Sport Trac 01Transponder
Ford Taurus 96 +Transponder
Ford Windstar 2000 +Transponder
GMC Envoy 01+Passlock II
GMC Jimmy 98+Passlock II
GMC Safari 98+Passlock II
GMC Denali 99+Passlock II
Chevrolet■■■
System:System:
System:
System:System:
Vehicle:Vehicle:
Vehicle:
Vehicle:Vehicle:
GMC SierraPasslock II
GMC Sonoma 98 +Passlock II
GMC Suburban 98+Passlock II
GMC Yukon 98+Passlock II
Honda Accord 98+Transponder
Honda Odyssey 98+Transponder
Honda Prelude 98+Transponder
Honda S2000Transponder
Infiniti I30 98+Transponder
Infiniti Q45 98+Transponder
Infiniti QX4Transponder
Jaguar (all 98+)Transponder
Isuzu Hombre 98+Passlock II
Jeep Grand Cherokee 99+Transponder
Jeep LibertyTransponder
Jeep TJ (Wrangler) 99+Transponder
Lexus (all 97+)Transponder
Lincoln BlackwoodTransponder
Lincoln Continental 97+Transponder
Lincoln LS 2000+Transponder
Lincoln Mark VIII 97+Transponder
Lincoln Navigator 97+Transponder
Lincoln Town Car 97+Transponder
Mazda TributeTransponder
Mercedes (all 97+)Transponder
Mercury Cougar 99+Transponder
Mercury Grand MarquisTransponder
Mercury Mountaineer 98 +Transponder
Mercury Mystique 97+Transponder
Mercury Sable 96+Transponder
Mini Cooper 02Transponder
Mitsubishi EclipseTransponder
Mitsubishi GalantTransponder
Nissan Frontier S/CTransponder
Nissan Maxima 98+Transponder
Oldsmobile Achieva 95Passlock I
Oldsmobile Achieva 96+Passlock II
Oldsmobile Alero 99+Passlock II
Oldsmobile AuroraVATS
Oldsmobile Bravada 98Passlock II
Oldsmobile Cutlass 97+Passlock II
Oldsmobile Eighty-EightVATS
Oldsmobile Intrique 98+Passlock II
Oldsmobile Ninty-EightVATS
Oldsmobile Silhoutte 99Transponder
Pontiac Aztek 01Transponder
Pontiac Bonneville 89+VATS
Pontiac Firebird 88+VATS
Pontiac Grand Am 96 - 98Passlock
Pontiac Grand Am 99+Passlock II
Pontiac Grand Prix 92 – 96VATS
Pontiac Grand Prix 97+Transponder
Pontiac Montana 99+Transponder
Pontiac Sunfire 96-99 Passlock I
Pontiac Sunfire 2000+Passlock II
Porsche (all 97+)Transponder
Saab (all 97+)Transponder
Saturn 97-99Factory Alarm
Saturn 00+Transponder
Subaru Legacy 00+Transponder
Subaru Outback 00+Transponder
Toyota Avalon 98+Transponder
Toyota Camry 98+Transponder
Toyota Highlander 01+Transponder
Toyota Land Cruiser 98+Transponder
Toyota Solara 99 +Transponder
Toyota Supra 98+Transponder
Volkswagen Beetle 98+Transponder
Volkswagen Golf 98+Transponder
Volkswagen Passat 98+Transponder
Volvo (all 98+)Transponder
We DO NOT recommend installing ANY remote starter in the following vehicles: Audi 1998+, BMW 1998+,
Jaguar 1998+, Land Rover 1998+, Mercedes 1998+, Range Rover 1998+, Volvo 1999+
As with any aftermarket installation, please research and learn as much as you can about the vehicle before you start the install.
All General Motors (GM) vehicles built prior to 1995 with automatic transmissions and all Dodge Dakota trucks with automatic transmissions
built prior to 1996 have a MECHANICAL type of NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH. All vehicles built after 1996 use an electrical type of neutral safety
switch.
Applying +12 volts to the starter wire on any vehicle vehicle using a mechanical neutral safety switch will engage the vehicle’s starter, regardless of the shifter’s position.
When the shifter is in Park or Neutral, the vehicle will just start up normally. If the vehicle is accidentally left in gear and power is applied to the start wire, such as by a
remote starter, the vehicle will lurch forward or back as it attempts to start.
To test if your GM or Dodge vehicle is using a mechanical neutral safety switch system, you will only be able to remove the key from the ignition switch when
the shifter is in the Park or Neutral position.
To prevent this problem from occurring when installing a DesignTech International remote starter on a GM vehicle or Dodge Dakota built prior to 1996:
1. You must leave the Enable Feature (option #7 in the factory setting). This is a safety feature that requires the user to turn the control switch OFF and then ON again each
time they exit the vehicle in order for the unit to be operational. This feature will ensure that the user of the vehicle with the remote starter installed has made a conscious
decision to allow the remote starter to start the vehicle the next time the transmitter button is depressed.
2. You must use the relay drawing below to create a circuit that will prevent the remote starter on these GM and Dodge vehicles from starting the vehicle unless the key is
completely removed from the ignition switch.
Connect to
constant
(+) 12 volts
87
87a
85
30
Connect to Purple Wire (hood pin
switch) of the Remote Starter
(Purple Wire must also connect to
hood pin switch)
To (-) Vehicle's Ground
86
Ignition Key Sense
Wire from Vehicle's
Connect to the
Ignition Harness
As with any aftermarket installation, please research and learn as much as you can about the vehicle before you start the install. Instructions, technical tips and detailed wiring
information is available on www.designtech-intl.com. Please refer to the information on the web site before starting ANY install or call Directed Electronics Technical
Support at (800) 876-0800.
The company behind this system is Directed Electronics, Inc.
Since its inception, Directed Electronics has had one purpose, to provide consumers with
the finest vehicle security and car stereo products and accessories available. The recipient
of nearly 100 patents and Innovations Awards in the field of advanced electronic technology,
DIRECTED is ISO 9001 registered.
Quality Directed Electronics products are sold and serviced throughout North America
and around the world.
Call (800) 876-0800 for more information about our products and services.
Directed Electronics is committed to delivering world class quality products
and services that excite and delight our customers.
1. When taking your car in for any service or repairs, disable the remote starter by switching the
2. Never leave your keys in the Ignition when the vehicle is unattended.
3. Do not use this product in a closed garage to avoid excessive carbon monoxide build-up.
Available Accessories:
Universal Alarm Bypass Module allows remote car starter installation on newer vehicles with factory anti-theft
systems such as VATS, P.A.T.S., Passlock I, Passlock II, Pass-Key III, Saturn, Securlock, and Transponder systems.
Extra transmitters for more than one user in the family. Up to four transmitters can be used with each receiver in the
vehicle.
These products can be purchased through your dealer.
Control switch to the OFF position. Inform the mechanic.
Daily Start
work at the same time each morning you can use the Daily Start™ feature to automatically start your car the next
day. Here is how: Start your car with the transmitter as usual. When you enter the vehicle and before you put the
key in the ignition, put your foot on the brake to turn the AutoCommand
control switch off and on once while your foot is still on the brake. The dash lights will flash once to signal the
setting of this option. Your vehicle will now start approximately 23 hours and 50 minutes later and run its normal
cycle. You can still start the vehicle with the key or via the transmitter anytime without cancelling out this option.
™
: This allows you to start the vehicle at the same time the next day. For example, if you leave for
®
off. Now within five seconds toggle the
Remote Car Starter Keyless Entry Notes Sheet for Model #s 28624T& 28628
Thank you for purchasing DesignTech unit that offers keyless entry features. Proper installation will result in
years of trouble free keyless operation including locking and unlocking your vehicle’s door locks and trunk control.
Please read these instructions completely prior to beginning connection to the vehicle’s locks and trunk.
GENERAL GUIDELINES AND CAUTIONS:
• Obtain a vehicle wiring sheet for your specific vehicle indicating the location, colors and types of locks and trunk
system that you will be working with. Please note that it may be necessary for you to purchase external relays
and/or diodes and resistors that are not included with your product. Please visit the DesignTech website at
www.designtech-intl.com
• When testing for lock/ unlock/ trunk wires, closely follow the instructions and when checking electrical
connections, use a test meter (multi-meter, voltage meter, etc.), DO NOT use a test light. It is easy to
accidentally damage the circuitry in modern vehicles testing for wires with a test light.
• The better you make your connections, the more reliable your system will be. We recommend soldering all
connections.
• All chassis ground wires must go to clean, bare metal surfaces. Always test the spot you have chosen for ground
connections to make sure it is a good ground. Pieces of metal supporting or attached to the underside of the
dashboard are not good locations. The best spot is usually in the kick-panel.
• Some door lock circuits will require that up to three wires on the DesignTech module be attached to +12 volts.
When doing this, connect all these wires together and then put the fuse on the main wire so that all wires are
protected with the fuse.
NEGATIVE TRIGGERED DOOR LOCK SYSTEMS
This circuit style is common to
most Japanese cars and some
European cars as well. In this
circuit the door lock/ Unlock
switch activates a relay which in
turn activates the lock/ unlock
motors in the car doors. The
DesignTech module will be
connected so that it provides a
negative pulse to the
appropriate wires to lock or
unlock the doors.
Testing for this type system is
very simple. First, check the
Keyless Entry wiring guide and
determine the color and location
of the lock wires in the vehicle
you are working on. Set your
test meter on continuity (or
ohms) and clip or attach one of
the probes to the cars chassis.
AutoCommand Keyless Entry Notes Sheet Without Relays.doc 9/7/2004
Test the chassis connection you are using by touching the other probe to a different point on the cars chassis. The
meter should register continuity, or a "continuous" circuit (zero ohms).
Next, locate the lock/ unlock wires (the ones from the wiring guide) in the car by removing whatever panel or
covering you need to. With one probe from the meter still attached to the cars chassis, use the other probe and
pierce the insulation of the lock wire. If you are on the correct wire, the meter should register continuity when you
press the lock switch. When you check for unlock the meter will register when you press the unlock switch. These
wires will register continuity ONLY when the corresponding lock or unlock switch is pressed. When you have found
the correct wires, connect the DesignTech module according to the diagram above.
POSITIVE TRIGGERED DOOR LOCK SYSTEMS
This circuit is similar to the
negative system except that
instead of a ground pulse to lock
and unlock, the system requires a
+12 volt pulse to lock and unlock
the doors. This type system is
found in most GM cars. When
testing for this system, attach the
black probe from the test meter to
chassis ground and set the meter
on the +12 volt DC scale. Use the
red probe from the meter to check
the wires. The meter will register
around +12 volts on the lock wire
when you press the lock switch
and the meter will register the
same for the unlock wire when
you press the unlock switch. These
wires will register +12 volts ONLY
when the lock or unlock switch is
pressed. When you have located
the correct wires, connect them exactly according to the following diagram.
REVERSE POLARITY DOOR LOCK SYSTEMS
Reverse polarity systems are more complicated. The switch in the vehicle sends +12 volts in one direction while
holding chassis ground on the other direction. This is true for both lock and unlock. Testing for this system requires
to check for continuity to chassis ground on the lock and unlock wires at rest. Just like a positive triggered system,
the lock wire will register +12 volts when you press the lock switch, and the unlock wire will register +12 volts when
you press the unlock switch. When neither switch is being pressed, these wires will show ground on your meter.
When you have located the correct wires, cut them in half. The switch side will still measure continuity to chassis
ground at rest while measuring +12 volts when the switch is activated. The motor side will not meausure anything
at either rest or when the switch is activated. Once you have determined which is the switch side and which is the
motor side, connect them to the DesignTech module according to the diagram on the next page using two SPDT
(Single Pole Double Throw) 5 pin relays.
AutoCommand Keyless Entry Notes Sheet Without Relays.doc 9/7/2004
SINGLE WIRE DOOR LOCK SYSTEMS
Single wire door lock systems
have only recently come in to
the market in the last five
years or so. This type of door
lock system differs from
more traditional wiring
systems as it only uses one
wire to both lock and unlock
the doors. Varying by make
model and even year of
vehicle, this system either
switches +12 volts or ground
across a resistor. The value of
the resistor is different for
lock and unlock, allowing the
vehicle to determine which
action is desired. If your
vehicle has this type of door
locking system, it is critical
that you get the wiring
information either faxed to
you or off of our web site
(www.designtech-intl.com). Use the diagram above to guide you through the wiring using two SPDT (Single Pole
Double Throw) 5-pin relays.
AutoCommand Keyless Entry Notes Sheet Without Relays.doc 9/7/2004
Trouble-Shooting Guide
Unit won’t respond
What is the Diagnostic
Code, and how do I
get it?
Diagnostic Code 1 flash The unit may not have attempted to start the vehicle yet or the unit may have started and timed out.
Diagnostic Code 2 flashes The unit thinks the hood is open. Make sure the hood pin-switch is properly adjusted and installed.
Diagnostic Code 3 flashes If the unit is programmed for tach, the tach wire is not connected or the tach rate may not yet have been learned.
Diagnostic Code 4 flashes Make sure the remote input wire (usually red/white) is not touching anything. (This wire is not on all models). If you
Diagnostic Code 5 flashes This code means the unit thought the transmission was shifted into gear.
Diagnostic Code 6 flashes Code 6 is caused by the unit not seeing the battery voltage increase enough when the vehicle starts. It can also be
Diagnostic Code 7 flashes An alarm sensor was triggered, causing the vehicle to shut down. (Only applies to units that have alarm features).
Diagnostic Code 8 flashes Something in the control harness is not connected properly. One of the transistor outputs is driving too much current.
Diagnostic Code 9 flashes Applicable only to manual transmission units. Indicates the unit did not see the emergency brake.
Diagnostic Code 10/11 flashes These are not a valid codes.
Diagnostic Code 12 flashes Make sure you have an accurate code. Please see ‘What is the Diagnostic Code, and how do I get it?’ at the top of
Make sure unit has power and ground.
Make sure unit is initialized (See ‘Initializing the unit’ in the manual)
Re-program transmitter. (See ‘Code Learning’ under Special Cases in the manual).
Check Diagnostic Code as described in Trouble Shooting with Self Diagnostics in the manual.
The Self-Diagnostics built into every DesignTech brand remote start will help identify problems in both the unit and
your installation. To get an accurate diagnostic code, flip the toggle switch off and back on; the LED light (on
module) should flash once if the unit is initialized. Press the start button on your transmitter for second. Now allow
the unit to try and start your vehicle 1-3 times. (Note that the unit will attempt to start the vehicle up to 3 times unless
codes 2,5,7 or 8 are being triggered, when it will try and start the vehicle once). Allow it up to a minute to try to start
again on its own - Don’t do ANYTHING to the unit during this time, unless something goes obviously wrong. At the
end of the starting cycles, turn the toggle off and count the first series of flashes- this will be the diagnostic code.
Is the toggle switch upside down? When the switch is turned on the LED will flash once immediately.
Something might be causing the unit to reset, such as a poor connection to ground or power, or you may have a relay
wired improperly. Typically the wires in the control harness require a relay unless otherwise stated.
The transmitter may need to be programmed.
The unit thinks the brake is being depressed. Make sure the brake wire has 12 volts on it only when the brake is
depressed. There should be no voltage on the brake wire at any other time
You might be experiencing feedback if you have connected the parking or head-lights. If disconnecting the lights
wire allows the unit to start then you might power the headlights, or you can isolate the brake wire of the unit from
the vehicle with a relay.
If the unit is programmed for ‘No-Tach’ the vehicle may not have all the required ignition wires connected, or may be
equipped with a factory security system – thus causing it to stall.
Sometimes a unit may have an option programmed even though you did not specifically set that option. Try re-setting
the unit. Unplug everything from the module except the black ground wire and LED (if you have a plug-in LED).
While pressing the white button on the module, connect the power lead. The LED on the unit should turn on and stay
on. Release the white push button and the LED should remain illuminated. (If not, repeat the process being sure to
hold in the white button while connecting power.) Now remove power and wait 2 minutes. Then connect the power
without pushing any buttons. Re-Initialize the unit and it should work for you.
have a stick shift unit – this is not relevant to you.
You might be pressing the remote control again before the unit has completed its cycle(s)---See 'Diagnostics: What is
the Diagnostic code and how do I get it?’ – at the top of this page.
If installing a manual transmission unit, this code means the unit did not see the door pin-switch.
If the transmission was not shifted: Switch the “in-gear” switch inside the module to the off position. This disables
‘Transmission in Gear’ sensing, and should solve the problem.
caused if you are not bypassing the factory theft system, such as PATS, VATS, or similar, if equipped.
Double-check the ignition wiring against the vehicle-wiring guide. Your vehicle may require ignition 2, or in some
cases ignition 3, in order to allow the alternator to function – thus bringing up the voltage.
If the wiring is correct, and you are properly bypassing any security system the vehicle may be equipped with, then
connecting the unit into tach mode should solve the problem. (Your alternator may not be functioning properly).
There may be a wire connected without a required relay, or if you are using a relay, the relay may not be connected
properly.
this page. If you still get code 12, one of the toggle switch wires may have touched ground, possibly damaging the
unit. Or maybe the switch was just turned off while it was running. Or maybe a defective switch?
Initialization - What is
it?
Initialization - What if
the unit will not
initialize?
I have a GM Truck and
the “Check Engine”
light is on after remote
starting. What should I
do?
The vehicle cranks but
fails to actually start
My 3 button remote
control will lock the
doors but will not unlock
them.
My 5 button remote will
not control lock/unlock
individually.
Initialization is a process which proves to the unit that you have connected the required safety features and that the
unit has been installed in an automatic vehicle. See “Initializing the Remote Starter” in the manual.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO INITIALIZE or INSTALL ANY AUTOMATIC UNIT ON ANY MANUAL
TRANSMISSION VEHICLE! Attempting to force an automatic unit to function on a manual stick-shift
vehicle could result in serious property damage or personal injury!
Is the unit already initialized? Make sure the switch is not upside down. Toggle the switch off and then
back to on. As the switch is turned on, the LED light on the unit (or that plugs into the unit) will flash
once if the unit is initialized.
One of the ignition wires may have voltage on it. Make sure all ignition wires measure a “dead” 0 volts
when the key is “off.” (It is normal to measure a small amount of voltage from the unit’s start wire.)
Check that there is 12 volts on the orange wire in the control harness only when the brake is pressed.
Check that there is continuity to ground on the purple wire in the control harness only when the hood is
open.
(A good way to test both the hood and brake at the same time is to connect a test light – the kind with a real light bulb
– with one lead to the orange wire and the other lead from the test light connected to the purple wire. If you open the
hood and press the brake, the light will illuminate if both connections are correct.)
You may have the wrong start wire. Make sure the yellow start wire from the unit is connected to a wire
in the vehicle which shows 12 volts only when the key is in the start (cranking) position. The wire should
have power at no other time.
Did you mistakenly switch the “in-gear” switch inside the module? If so, the unit will not initialize. This
switch disables transmission in-gear sensing, and should only be switched if you have been instructed by
a technician to do so or you are getting a diagnostic code of 5 flashes.
Your vehicle may not have a neutral safety switch, such as pre 95 GM rear-wheel drive vehicles or Dodge
Dakotas built prior to 1996. Try this: Open the hood and place your foot on the brake. Start the vehicle
with the key. Turn the engine off and release the brake. If all of your connections are correct the unit
should be initialized at this point.
Try bypassing the toggle switch temporarily in case a wire or connection to it is broken. Just unplug the
switch and jump across the two pins on the module that the switch plugs into with any metal object. As
you jump (short) the two pins together the LED should flash if the unit is initialized. NOTE- DO NOT
short any toggle switch wire to ground or probe the connector with a test light. Doing so may damage the
unit.
You most likely have one of the ignition wires connected wrong. Make sure you have connected:
From Unit to Vehicle_______________________________
Ign1 (Blue) PINK (hot in run and start)
Ign2 (Green) WHITE or PINK/WHITE (hot in run and start)
ACC(White) ORANGE (hot in run only)
If you have the ignition wires connected as above and still have a check engine light it is possible the unit
has been programmed to have ignition 2 “off during crank.” Please review the programming options
within the installation manual.
Please see “What is the diagnostic code and how do I get it?” Follow the steps for the diagnostic code
you receive. You are probably missing one of your second or third ignition wires. Or if it is a Nissan –
you probably have 2 starter wires which need to be shorted together.
Re-program the transmitter. Use the left button when teaching 3 button remote controls. When
programming the 5 button remote, use the start button. (Refer to the installation manual for the complete
steps on how to make the unit enter the code learning process.)
The vehicle runs – but
without the heater or airconditioner.
I have poor range.
My vehicle has Passlock
I or II and I cannot get a
resistance reading.
Can I use the
DesignTech Transmitter
with other brands of
products?
The LED on the unit
flashes constantly
The LED remains
illuminated at all times
The starter stays
engaged for 6 seconds.
How will I know if I
need a relay?
You are missing the 2nd (or 3rd) ignition wire or the accessory wire is not hooked up. Make sure the heater or airconditioner is left on when you leave the vehicle. On diesel vehicles – they may not come on for a few minutes until
after the vehicle is up and running.
The antenna coax wire may be crimped, cut or otherwise damaged. Try the antenna both vertically and horizontally
to determine the best performance. Make sure the receiver unit has a good chassis ground. Note that the higher you
hold the transmitter off the ground when pushing the button – the further distance you will get from the system.
Many meters have a known issue with measuring passlock. This is not a fault of the meter, the installer, or
the manufacturer. These issues can cause problems such as getting a consistent reading of the resistance,
or the reading may be artificially inflated. It is our belief that the mid-to-high-end meters seem to
experience more problems measuring passlock than less expensive digital meters.
One wire will have 0 volts - This is the wire you "tap" into-- we’ll call this WIRE #1 USUALLY BLACK
OR ORANGE/BLACK. One wire will have 5 volts or less- This is the wire you cut in half-- we'll call this
WIRE #2 USUALLY YELLOW. One wire will have aproximately 12 volts - This is the wire you leave
alone USUALLY WHITE OR BLACK/WHITE. With all PASSLOCK wires intact, turn the vehicle on
and bump the starter. Measure the voltage between the wire #1 and wire#2. Your meter should be set on
the 12 volt DC scale. RECORD THIS VOLTAGE. Without turning the key off - go ahead and separate
WIRE #2. Reconnect the Universal Alarm Bypass Module (Part #20402 or 29402) as described in the
installation manual with one exception - GROUND the wire that goes to the ignition 3 wire; you should
hear the bypass module click. Now measure the voltage between the ENGINE side of WIRE #2 and wire
#1. Your meter should be set on the 12 volt DC scale. Adjust the dip-switches and trim-pot on the bypass
module until the voltage being measured EXACTLY matches the recorded voltage obtained without the
module. Remove ground from the ignition 3 wire of the bypass module, turn the vehicle off and then
restart it. Look at the voltage again - and while monitoring it ground the ignition 3 wire of the bypass
again. If the module is set correctly the voltage should NOT change. Repeat again to verify - if you get
the same voltage every time then the module is set up perfectly. There is no chart to help you with this, it
is just trial and error -- but it will work regardless of the meter you are using.
NO. Due to proprietary technology DesignTech brand products will operate only with DesignTech brand
Transmitters. Likewise, a DesignTech transmitter will not operate another brand’s products.
The alarm within the unit, if equipped (as are most units with 3 or 5 button remotes) may be armed, or the
unit may be in valet mode.
Make sure the wires going to the toggle switch are not broken, and that the toggle switch is on.
Reset the unit - See “Resetting all options to the factory setting” in the instructions
It is normal for the LED to glow dimly. This indicates the unit is receiving power.
If the LED is at full brightness then one of the push-buttons may have been depressed when you applied
power, the LED may be plugged into the wrong jack, or something may be wrong within the unit.
If the unit is in tach mode – make sure the tach wire is properly connected and receiving the correct tach
rate.
If using the “No-Tach” method, make sure the unit is not programmed for tach mode, extended crank, or
super crank.
Make sure you have the correct start wire connected - the start wire in the vehicle should have 12 volts
only when the key is in the start position.
Some vehicles such as Toyotas and Nissans, experience a starter feedback problem. Try temporarily
isolating the start wire from the key switch to identify this problem - simply cut the start wire in half
between the connecting point of the units start wire and the key switch. Get Installation Note #133 from
off our web-site or Fax On Demand.
If the output is labeled as a “+12 relay output” the unit contains a relay on that output - and you will only
need to use a relay if the vehicle requires a negative output.
If the output is labeled a “400ma Transistor Ground Output”, this means the unit supplies a ground up to a
maximum of 400ma. If more than 400ma is drawn through the output, the unit may shut down or it may
be damaged. Generally speaking, if the vehicle requires a ground and the unit supplies a ground you will
not need a relay. If the vehicle requires a positive and the unit supplies a ground, you will need to use a
relay. Likewise, if the vehicle requires a ground capable of more than 400ma you would need to use a
relay. See Installation Note 111, Basic Uses of the Relay from our web site or our Fax On Demand.
Vehicle only remote
starts if I flip the toggle
switch off and back on
The car turns off when
the brake is pressed- but
This condition is perfectly normal. This is a safety feature designed to prevent unauthorized starting. If
you have forgotten to flip the switch off and back on, you can still remote start the vehicle. Just hold the
start button down for 6 to 10 seconds instead of the usual 1 second. If you do not like this safety feature, it
can be permanently bypassed by programming option 7, explained under "Setting Programming Features"
or a similar section within the installation instructions.
The remote input wire available on some units (usually a red/white) may be connected to ground. The
remote input wire should be taped up if not being used so that it does not touch ground.
as soon as I release the
brake the vehicle starts
again
The lights flash (and
maybe even the horn)
The alarm has been armed and triggered – even if you did not hook it up. If the alarm features are not
being used, you must ground the ‘alarm trigger’ wire permanently, or set option 24 if available.
when I step on the brake.
The unit tries 2 or 3
Program extended crank, or use tach mode.
times before getting the
vehicle up and running
Some General Comments:
• For Your Safety, never install an automatic unit into a manual transmission (stick-shift) vehicle! Serious
property damage or personal injury including death may occur! Instead, use one of our special manual
transmission units, which will operate safely in a manual transmission vehicle.
• When testing wires use only a digital multimeter, unless otherwise instructed. A test light (especially the
kind with a real light bulb) can severely damage electrical components in modern vehicles if used
improperly. Also, “computer safe” LED type test lights - with a red and/or green LED- are NOT airbag
safe! NEVER test ANY wire within an airbag system harness.
• Always roll down at least one window in the vehicle before beginning work. This will prevent you from being
accidentally locked out of the vehicle.
• It’s okay to have a battery charger on the battery while you are working on the vehicle, but the car starter will
not function correctly with the charger attached.
• Specific vehicle information is available directly from www.designtech-intl.com
colors in the wiring guide "matching up" then you may be in the wrong harness. You can make sure you are in
the correct harness by unplugging the wires. For example: With the ignition switch, if you unplug it and then
the vehicle no longer cranks, the blower and radio do not work, and the vehicle is for all purposes "dead" with
the key- then you have found the “ignition switch harness.” (Otherwise, you will need to continue searching...)
The same technique can be used for the brake, lights, horn, etc. Once you are sure you are in the correct
harness, if the wire colors still fail to match up then you will have to test the wires using a digital multimeter. It
is always best to verify any wire before connecting to it.
• Most of the common questions that people ask are actually answered within the installation manual. Make sure
you have thoroughly reviewed it before calling for technical support. We recommend going through the
installation manual with two different colored markers. Read through each step and check it off after you have
read it. Use the second marker to make a check when you have completed the step in the vehicle. This will help
to make sure you have completed all steps, and that you have not missed any features the unit offers.
Expedition1997-02 RED/BLUEDBLUE/GRNGRAY/YELRED/BLACKBLK/LGRN(+)L GREEN (+)WHITE/PINKD.GREEN/PURPLE (-)BROWN (+)D BLUE (-)Equipped with Transponder
Explorer1991-01 RED/BLUELGRN/PURPGRAY/YEL2ND GRY/YELBLK/LGRN(+)L GREEN (+)TAN/YELLOWD GREEN/PURPLE (-)WHITE/BLACK (+)BLACK (-)Equipped with Transponder from 1998+
Explorer2002 REDRED/GRNN/AN/A - TransponderGRN/LTGRNL GREEN (+)BLU/GRND GREEN/PURPLE (-)BROWN (+)YEL/GREENEquipped with Transponder from 1998+
F-150 / F-2501994-02 RED/BLUEDBLUE/GRNBLACK/RED2ND GRY/YELBLK/LGRN(+)L GREEN (+)RED/GREENGREEN/VIOLETBROWN (+)YEL/LGREEN (-)
Mustang1998-02 WHT/PINKRED/GREENRED/BLACKGRAY/YELBLK/GRNRED/LT-GREENORANGE/WHTN/ABROWN +PPL/ORNG (-)equipped with transponder/use relay for ing 3
Mustang1994-98 WHT/PINKTAN/WHTGRY/YELGRAY/YELBLK/GRNGREEN OR RED/GRN TAN/YELLOWDK-GREEN/PPLBROWN (+)YEL/LT-GRN96 & UP MAY equipped WITH TRANSPONDER KEY.
Excursion2001-02 RED/BLUERED/BLACKRED/BLACK2ND GRY/YELRED/BLACKBLK/LGRN(+)WHITE/PINKD.GREEN/PURPLE (-)BROWN (+)YEL/L GREEN (-) Equipped with Transponder
Crown Victoria>1994 WHT/PINKRED/GREENBRW/PINKGRAY/YELBLK/GRNLT-GREENTAN/YELLOWN/ABROWN (+)YEL/GREEN (-) Equipped with 2 GRAY/YEL external relay is required
Econoline1992-01 WHITE/PINK RED/L GRNGRAY/YEL2ND GRY/YELBLK/LGRN(+)L GREEN (+)TAN/YELLOWD.GREEN/PURPLE (-)BROWN (+)YEL/L GREEN (-)
Escape2001-02 TAN/LT.BLU LGRN/PURPN/A
Crown Victoria1995-02 WHT/PINKBRW/PINKPINK/BLKGRAY/YELBLK/GRNLT-GREENTAN/LT-GREENMay equipped with transp BROWN (+)YEL/GREEN (-) Equipped with 2 GRAY/YEL external relay is required
Stratus1995-99 YELLOWBLUEBLK/ORGN/A BLK / WHTWHITE / TAN(+)BLK / GRAY*LT-GREEN / ORANGE(+) BLACK / YELLOW (+)BLK / RED (-)*back of fuse junction block 270 Omhs resistance …
Viper1995-02 YELLOWBLUEN/A TRANS-99+BLK / ORGWHITEGRAY / BLUN/A BLUE OR TAN (+)BLK / RED (-)..for disarrm needed
FORD
Ram Pick-up2002 YELLOWBLUERED
Ram Van Wagon1998-02 YEL / BRNBLUEBLACK/ORGN/ABLACK/WHITEWHITE / TANGRAY**BLACK / ORNG (-)BLACK / YELLOW (+)BLK / RED (-)**12 pin blk conn-driver kick pan. (1998=Yel/Brwn)
Ram Van Wagon1992-98 YELLOWBLUEBLACK/ORGN/ABLACK/WHITEWHITE / TANGRAYN/ABLACK / YELLOW (+)BLK / RED (-)
Shadow1991-94 YELLOWBLUEN/A N/A BLK / ORGWHITEBLK / GRAYN/A BLACK / YELLOW (+)BLK / RED (-)
Spirit1989-94 YELLOWBLUEN/A N/A BLK / ORGWHITEBLK / GRAYN/A BLACK / YELLOW (+)BLK / RED (-)
Windstar1996-98 RED/BLUERED/LT.GRNBLK/LGRN2ND GRY/YELBLACK/PINKRED/GREEN (+)WHITE/PINKD GREEN/PURPLE (-)WHITE/BLACK (+)YEL/LT. BLUE (-)
Metro1995-99 RED/ YELBLUE / BLKRED/GRNN-ABLK/RED OR BLU/RED GREEN / WHTBROWNN-ABLUE / BLK(-)
GEO
Ranger1995-02 RED/BLUELGRN/PURPGRAY/YEL2ND GRY/YELBLK/LGRN(+)L GREEN (+)TAN/YELLOWD GREEN/PURPLE (-)BROWN (+)YEL/LGREEN (-)Equipped with Transponder
Taurus1996-02 RED/BLUERED/GREENGRAY/YELRED/BLKBLK/GRNRED/LT-GREENTAN/YELLOWPINK/WHITEBROWN (+)Ppl or Grn/Orang96 & UP MAY equipped WITH TRANSPONDER KEY.
Taurus1992-95 WHT/PINKRED/GREENGRAY/YELGRAY/YELBLK/GRNRED/LT-GREENTAN/YELLOWN/ABROWN (+)YEL/LT-GRN Equipped with 2 or 3 GRAY/YEL external relay is required
Villager1993-94 REDWHITE/REDBROWNN/AWHITE/GRNYEL/BLACK (+)BLUEN/APINK BLK OR YEL
Mountaineer1997-01 RED/L BLUE LGRN/PURPGRAY/YEL2GRAY/YELBLACK/LGRNL GREEN (+)TAN/YELLOWD GREEN/PURPLE (-)WHITE/BLACK (+)BLACK (-)Equipped with Transponder
Mountaineer2002 REDRED/GREENN/AN/AGREEN/L.GRNL.GREENBLUE/GREENGREEN/PURPLEBROWN (+)YELLOW/GRNEquipped with Transponder
Grand Marquis1989-02 WHITE/PINK BROWN/PINKPINK/BLACK2GRAY/YELBLK/L.GRNLT GREEN (+)TAN/YELLOWN/ABROWN (+)YEL/L.GREENLate model equipped with Transponder.
Towncar 1998-02 RED/LTBLU WHITE/YELGRAY/YELPINK/BLKBLK/LT.GRNLT. GREENWHITE/REDN/ABROWNDK. BLUE (-)
Towncar 1992-97 WHT/PINKBRWN/PINKPINK/BLACKBLK/GREENRED/GREENLT-GREENTAN/YELLOWDK. GREEN/PURPLE (-)BROWNDK. BLUE (-)Has a second acc wire Black/lt-Green
626/2000-02 GREENBLACK/WHTBLACK/REDN/ABLUEWHITE/GREEN (+)REDRED/WHITEGREEN/REDEquipped with Transponder
Navigator1997-02 RED/LBLUE D BLUE/GRNGRAY/YELRED/BLACKBLACK/LGRNL GREEN (+)WHITE/PINKD GREEN/PURPLE (-)BROWN (+)D BLUE (-)Equipped with Transponder
Lincoln
SC4001992-01 BLACK/WHT BLACK/ORGBLACK/YELSee NoteREDGREEN/WHITE (+)BLACKGREEN (-)GREEN (+)GREEN/RED (-)1998 + May have Transponder
Continental1998-02 RED/LT.BLU BRWN/PINKGRAY/YELGRAY/YELBLK/LT.GRNLT. GREENLT.GRN/WHITEDK. GREEN/PURPLE (-)ORANGE/BLACK (+)DK. BLUE (-)Some are equipped with Transponder
Grand Cherokee1999-02 YELLOWD BLUEBLACK/ORGN/ABLK/WHTWHITE/TAN (+)n/aBLACK (-) in driver doorBLACK/YELLOW (+)BLACK/REDSEE SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARKING LIGHT
Grand Cherokee1996-98 YELLOWBLUE/GRAYBLACK/ORGN/ARED/BLACKWHITE/TAN (+)GRAY/WHITEVIOLET/YELLOW (-)D BLUE/RED (+)GRAY/ORG