REVIEW: Avital 4105L 1-Way Remote Start System with 4-Button Remote

If you’ve ever faced the misery of stepping into a freezing cold car in the dead of winter or a scorching hot oven on a summer day, you know the problem. The discomfort is obvious, but leaving your car running to warm up or cool down beforehand isn’t always practical or safe. I remember countless mornings dreading that initial shock of cold leather seats. Solving this issue isn’t just about comfort; it’s about saving time, improving safety by ensuring clear windows, and making your daily commute less of a hassle. Without a solution, you’re stuck enduring extreme temperatures every single day, or risking leaving your car vulnerable while it warms up.

Avital 4105L 1-Way Remote Start System with 4-Button Remote
  • Avital remote start system includes two 4-buttom remotes with up to one and a half mile range
  • Lock, unlock, trunk release, and remote start
  • Fault-proof starter interrupt - Keep your car where you parked it with this layer of protection against “hot-wiring” by car thieves.

Thinking About Adding a Remote Car Starter? Here’s What to Ponder

Anyone tired of shivering through winter mornings or melting in summer heat could benefit from a remote car starter. This product category is all about convenience and comfort, letting you adjust your car’s interior temperature before you even get inside. The ideal customer is someone who values that comfort and lives in an area with significant temperature variations, or someone who simply appreciates the modern convenience of starting their engine remotely.

However, a remote start system isn’t for everyone. If you park exclusively in a garage, live in a temperate climate with minimal temperature extremes, or aren’t comfortable with potential vehicle modifications, this might be an unnecessary expense. Similarly, individuals who aren’t familiar with automotive electronics or are unwilling to invest in professional installation should probably steer clear of systems requiring complex wiring, as improper installation can lead to vehicle damage or system malfunctions. Before buying, you need to consider the compatibility with your specific vehicle’s year, make, and model, including any factory anti-theft systems that might require bypass modules. Also, think about the desired range, whether you need confirmation feedback (this is a 1-way system, meaning the remote doesn’t tell you if the car started), and if you want extra features like keyless entry or trunk release integrated into the same remote.

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Start-X Remote Starter Kit for Ford F-150 15-20, F-250/F-350 17-21, Ranger 19-23, Transit Connect...
  • REMOTE START - Start your car remotely from the comfort of your home. Warm your vehicle remotely for fast and convenient windshield defrosting during winters. During hot summers, cool down your...
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Compustar CS7900-AS All-in-One 2-Way Remote Start and Alarm Bundle w/ 3000 Feet Range
  • Some vehicles may require extra parts which are sold separately and not included. Wiring diagrams and installation instructions NOT included. Professional installation required.
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Compustar CS4900-S (4900S) 2-Way Remote Start and Keyless Entry System with 3000-ft Range
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Getting to Know the Avital 4105L

The Avital 4105L is primarily a remote start and keyless entry system designed to bring modern convenience to a wide range of vehicles. The core promise of this system is straightforward: the ability to start your car, lock, unlock, and pop the trunk all from a distance using the included remotes. When you purchase the Avital 4105L system, you typically receive the main control module, two 4-button remote transmitters, and the necessary wiring harness. While this Avital system focuses on the essential remote start and keyless entry functions, it holds its own in the market by offering reliable operation and compatibility with Directed SmartStart for smartphone control (though this requires additional hardware). Compared to older, more basic remote start units, the inclusion of features like the dual-zone impact sensor and fault-proof starter interrupt adds layers of security often found in more expensive systems, positioning it as a solid value offering.

This particular remote starter is ideal for someone looking for fundamental remote start and keyless entry features without the added complexity or cost of a full-blown 2-way alarm system. It’s also a good fit if you plan to integrate with Directed SmartStart later. However, it’s not the best choice if you need a high-security alarm system right out of the box, require confirmation on your remote that the car has started, or are looking for a plug-and-play installation solution.

Pros:

* Reliable remote start and keyless entry functionality.
* Good operating range reported by users.
* Includes two 4-button remotes.
* Built-in security features like fault-proof starter interrupt and dual-zone impact sensor.
* Directed SmartStart compatible for potential smartphone control.
* Offers solid value for the price point.

Cons:

* Installation can be complex and may require professional help.
* Often requires additional vehicle-specific parts (like bypass modules or door lock adapters).
* 1-way communication means no remote confirmation of successful start.
* Basic package doesn’t include an external status LED.
* Some reports of units arriving in potentially used condition (though this is less about the product itself and more about vendor handling).

A Closer Look at How the Avital 4105L Performs and What it Offers

Having used the Avital 4105L for quite some time now, I can delve into the specifics of its features and how they translate into real-world benefits. This isn’t just about pushing a button; it’s about integrating technology into your daily routine for genuine convenience and peace of mind.

Remote Start and Core Functionality

At its heart, the Avital 4105L is a remote start system, and this function is its primary strength. With just a press of a button on the 4-button remote, you can start your vehicle’s engine from a distance. This is invaluable during extreme weather. In the winter, you can start your car a few minutes before leaving the house, allowing the heater to warm the cabin and defrost the windows. Come summer, the AC can cool things down to a bearable temperature before you get in. The default setting allows the car to run for 12 minutes, a period usually sufficient to reach a comfortable temperature. This core function directly addresses the initial problem of discomfort and wasted time waiting for the car to warm up or cool down manually. Beyond starting, the included remotes also provide standard lock, unlock, and trunk release functions, replacing or supplementing your factory key fob with extended range capabilities.

Impressive Operating Range

One of the standout features of the Avital 4105L is its stated range. Avital claims up to 1.5 miles, which translates to roughly 804.67 meters. While real-world range is always subject to environmental factors like buildings, hills, and electrical interference, the Superhet receiver technology built into the unit helps maximize signal reception for better performance. In my experience, and echoed by user reviews, the range is indeed very good for a 1-way system. I’ve been able to reliably start my car from inside buildings, including offices and even from the upper floors of parking structures, often from distances of several hundred feet. This means you don’t have to be right next to your car for the system to work, adding significant convenience to your routine. You can start your car while finishing up work, shopping, or getting ready to leave home.

Enhanced Security with Fault-Proof Starter Interrupt

While not a full alarm system, the Avital 4105L incorporates a crucial security feature: the fault-proof starter interrupt. This system acts as a layer of defense against vehicle theft via “hot-wiring.” Essentially, it prevents the car’s starter from engaging without the proper sequence initiated by the remote start system or the factory key. If a thief attempts to bypass the ignition, the starter interrupt keeps the car where it is. The “fault-proof” aspect suggests it’s designed to remain secure even if the system itself is tampered with. This provides valuable peace of mind, knowing that installing remote start doesn’t compromise your car’s security, but rather adds an extra layer of protection.

Dual-Zone Impact Sensor

Another integrated security feature is the dual-zone impact sensor. This sensor is designed to detect physical impacts or blows to your vehicle. It’s a two-stage system, meaning it can respond differently depending on the severity of the impact. A light tap might trigger a few warning chirps from the siren (if connected), alerting potential vandals that the vehicle is protected. A harder blow, indicative of a potential break-in or collision, will trigger the full alarm siren. This feature adds a deterrent effect and provides notification if someone is bothering your vehicle while you are away, adding another benefit to this Avital remote start unit.

Directed SmartStart Compatibility

For those who want to take their remote access to the next level, the Avital 4105L is compatible with Directed SmartStart. This technology allows you to control your remote start and security system using a smartphone app. While it requires purchasing the separate SmartStart module and potentially a service plan, the compatibility means you have the option to upgrade later. Being able to start your car from virtually anywhere using your phone, receive alerts, and even GPS locate your vehicle (depending on the SmartStart module chosen) adds a significant layer of modern convenience and security. This compatibility ensures the system isn’t limited to just the physical remotes.

Virtual Tach and Installation Aids

The Avital 4105L includes features aimed at simplifying installation, particularly for professional installers. Virtual Tach eliminates the need to connect a physical tachometer wire in many vehicles, simplifying one of the more complex wiring steps. The D2D (Data-to-Data) serial data port allows for easier integration with vehicle-specific modules, like immobilizer bypass modules, often reducing the number of physical wire connections needed. These features, along with the system being Bitwriter programmable (allowing installers to quickly configure settings), contribute to a potentially smoother installation process, though as mentioned, professional installation is often recommended due to the need for specific vehicle wiring knowledge.

Other Programmable Features and Considerations

The system offers other programmable features beyond the default 12-minute run time, which can be adjusted via the valet button and remote or with a Bitwriter. Features like Timer Mode allow the vehicle to be started at set intervals, useful in extremely cold climates to keep fluids warm. The inclusion of outputs for optional horn and starter kill/anti-grind relays means the system can be expanded upon for a more robust security setup if desired. However, it’s important to note that while the system has outputs, the actual relays for features like anti-grind may need to be purchased separately, adding to the overall cost if you want those specific protections. The Nuisance Prevention Circuitry (NPC) is also a welcome addition, designed to prevent false alarms that can annoy neighbors and drain your car’s battery.

Despite these benefits, it’s worth reiterating some potential hurdles. The need for vehicle-specific bypass modules or door lock adapters is common for many remote start systems, but it’s a cost and complexity factor with the Avital 4105L that requires research specific to your car. Also, while wiring diagrams are available online or through technical resources, the product package itself may not include detailed step-by-step installation instructions, making DIY installation challenging for those without prior experience. Finally, the lack of a remote status LED on the basic unit means you don’t have a visible confirmation light on your dash unless you add one yourself, which some users might miss for quickly checking the system status.

Overall, the features packed into the Avital 4105L provide a robust foundation for remote starting and basic security. The range is excellent for a 1-way system, and the included security features add valuable protection. While installation might require professional help or significant DIY skill, the functionality and potential for SmartStart integration make it a compelling option for its price range.

What Other Users Are Saying

Looking online, many users seem quite happy with their Avital 4105L systems. People frequently praise the value for the price, noting that it offers core remote start functions reliably. The impressive range is also a common point of positive feedback, with users reporting successful starts from significant distances, even through walls and buildings. While some found the installation straightforward, particularly if they didn’t need extra parts, many others echoed the sentiment that professional installation is highly recommended due to the complexity and the potential need for additional vehicle-specific modules like bypass units for factory anti-theft systems or adapters for door locks. A few users noted minor issues, such as the lack of sound confirmation on door locking or receiving items that appeared previously handled, but overall, the sentiment points towards a functional and effective remote starter when properly installed.

Bringing It All Together

Enduring the discomfort of extreme temperatures in your vehicle daily is more than just an inconvenience; it affects your comfort, wastes time, and can even impact safety due to impaired visibility. Solving this problem with a remote car starter is a simple yet effective way to improve your daily routine. The Avital 4105L 1-Way Remote Start System with 4-Button Remote is a great candidate to tackle this issue because it offers excellent range, includes useful security features like the starter interrupt and impact sensor, and provides core remote start and keyless entry functions reliably at a competitive price. If you’re ready to say goodbye to temperature extremes before you even step inside your car, this system is definitely worth considering. To learn more or click here to check the product out.

Last update on 2025-09-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API