G
Guest2017
Functionality aside, Mazda does have their smart phone remote start. So you might be asking for an upgrade of that system instead of a new one?
Let's be fair, Fortin does not recommend end user installs. Their site, instructions and programming dongles are targeted at install shops. I feel the programming dongles speaks to that fact, a $50 programmer for one time use is not a consumer friendly model. Their support forum was pretty good and I think their phone support is reasonable too if you call during regular hours. But not for weekend DIYs.
No matter how difficult, imo the OEM version would also be dealer installed and no less time consuming compared to having the Fortin installed at a shop. So no difference in that sense.
For just $199, it looks promising:
However, I'm more inclined to lean much harder on your initial reply that Mazda should upgrade - or better yet - completely redesign their own OEM factory installed solution. A basic remote start function from the OEM remote itself, would be a good add on for Mazda to consider. Regarding Fortin, their wiring harness looks fairly tame and it appears to be universal. I've seen and worked with much worse - this looks polished and professionally designed. I could seriously think about this - but I'd have to take a look at installation documentation first. How that is written would say a lot about whether or not I'd be seriously interested. I also see some people having difficult with not getting their key fobs to work after installing EVO-ONE and EVO-ALL. Stuff like opening the door of their vehicle and then having the engine shut off, etc. Same people claim they followed the installation instructions per the letter.
Still looks interesting to me at least on the surface - that is until Mazda gets its act together with Remote Start Technology in general. In my mind, that means applying integrated engineering methodologies and getting it fully tucked away (securely) with complete CMU integration, as opposed to being an afterthought with high visibility windshield mounted antennas, etc.