Volvo S80 Remote Start: Immobilizer bypass lessens security?

[ziphem]

I just found this website, and I'm glad I did! I have some questions about the interaction between the Volvo immobilizer & remote start for a 2001 Volvo S80.

I was thinking of getting the Viper 5900 monitor & remote start. I called the dealer to see if this was possible, and the head of service there told me that it was. He told me that I'd need to bring in or buy another key for the installation. I at first thought it was to program the remote start clicker, but after a few questions, he told me that it was for the immobilizer - that this extra key goes under the dashboard.

I don't know much about this, so after a few minutes, I started thinking that maybe it lessens the security of the car to have a key or the chip from the key under the dashboard that can bypasss the immobilizer? Or, is this just a technical neccessity that I don't need to worry about, because it's being able to bypass the immobilizer is contingent on the clicker turning the car on, and having a key in the ingition? Or is the only real decrease in car security exist between the time that I turn the car on with the remote start to when I actually get in the car (assuming no one's hiding in the bushes, waiting for me to get to the car!).

In all seriousness, I'd really appreciate if someone could please explain this to me, and let me know if this would in fact diminish the car's already good security system. I figure that in a worst case scenario, I would just get the Viper unit that is just the monitor, not the remote start. But I sure would love that remote start, too!

Thanks a ton for any help you can give me!!

[dipsta]

its true a remote start voids thatchcam catergory approval.

One key is left under the dash near to immobiliser pickup so that your car is mobilised for remote engine starting. i had this on my clio and my v70R


However if you get blackjax, then even if your car keys are taken the thief cannot start the car unles they type in the 4 digit code to enable the fuel pump and ignition, but this means you have to type in the code everytime you want to start the car. can be truely annoying and embarrasing if you get it wrong.

Remote start is a good thing for winter and looks cool when people see you start your cer via a remote, however remember to leave the car in neutral or park, there are safety devices for this on the alarms, and also the steering lock.

[TJMurphy]

I never realised that's how the remote start systems got around the immobiliser - would an insurance company class this as leaving your keys in the car (which invalidates the insurance)? It presumably would be at least a notifiable mod.

Do the remote starts you can get as an option from Volvo work the same way - presumably?

Tony

[volvoownertim]

Similar problem with my 2006 S80 T5. Had recent install of FlashLogic remote start module, now immobilizer keeps stranding me. Lock/unlock 4 or 5 times with factory FOB won't disable immobilizer. Tried disconnecting battery for reset. Pulled service key from dash that was wire wrapped and shielded with heavy aluminum wrap with silicone putty core - no help. Had towed to remote start install company who will try to track down solution tomorrow. I've read it's tricky to get these programmed and bypassed correctly on S80s. Anyone have suggestions they can offer for correct immobilizer bypass sequencing etc? THANKS!