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[Sir Tigger KC]

My remote car warming system comprises of three simple components:-

1) Extension lead
2) Fan heater
3) Time switch

Put them all together, adjust the time switch for when you'd like the system to start operating and that's it! 

Simple!! 

[chrisgixer]

One of the Glasgow based lads had this feature fitted to his Omega, and was showing it at the Stirling meet many years ago. Looked quite neat, and if I remember correctly, if car was driven off without the key inserted then it cut the engine after a few seconds.
Simples.

I had presumed any system worth having would have to have that feature as standard as part if the package.

...so, thinking to through. Cars running with remote start activated. Driver leaves the house, gets in car. What does he do, I guess turns off via the remote start fob, then insert car key and starts as normal...?

[chrisgixer]

Also, I presume there's a fail safe so it won't start by accident if the bonnet is up?

[Gaffers]

I wonder if there is a better way?

As well as using more fuel there are other aspects which have to be taken in to account.  If bypassing the immobiliser then you risk voiding the insurance in the event of a theft for example.

The Leaf uses an electric heater and can be turned on remotely or via a timer.  So currently I have it set to come on at 0630 to defrost the car and then I heat it up before I get in through an app on the phone.

In the northern US states and Canada they plug their cars in to stop the oil and antifreeze ruining the car engine.  An element runs underneath the engine.  There also exists air blower heaters designed for cars in long term storage to prevent damage from damp I guess.  It would not take a lot to wire such a device in to a car with a bower, say on the back shelf, to a camping style 3 pin plug to an outlet in the garage or on the driveway.  A timer can be used to set it to come on at a specific time or even a remote switch.

[Kevin Wood]

Electric pre-heater on a time switch or, as said, spare key and leave it locked and running.

Can't see why you'd bypass the factory immobiliser to fit a chav accessory, TBH, and wouldn't want it starting without me in the car anyway. Also, bear in mind that unless it's on your private driveway you're committing the offence of quitting if you leave a car running unattended.

[05omegav6]

Fitting a runlock is a good compromise then, as the car shuts itself down if you try to drive it. Doesn't affect the integrity of the immobiliser/alarm as it isn't connected to it

[Kevin Wood]

Fitting a runlock is a good compromise then, as the car shuts itself down if you try to drive it. Doesn't affect the integrity of the immobiliser/alarm as it isn't connected to it

Yep, or just lock it with the spare key.

[I_want_an_Omega]

Get a Kenlowe Hotstart fitted. 

It's a 3kwh mains powered heater that is plumbed into the car.

Takes a stone cold V6 upto normal temp in about 45 mins.

I had one on my MV6 some years ago and loved it - but it on a timeswitch and jobs done.

When you start the car it immediately goes to hot and you get hot air from the vents.

Many ABS folks have got them - but I dont know of any OOFers having them.

You can get them on ebay for about £100 or so.

[05omegav6]

The single issue with locking it with the spare key, is that there's still a key in the ignition, which probably invalidates the insurance anyway

[Kevin Wood]

The single issue with locking it with the spare key, is that there's still a key in the ignition, which probably invalidates the insurance anyway

True, but they'd suck through their teeth if you told them about a runlock being fitted too, I reckon. It really depends how often this is an issue. Obviously emergency vehicles are a special case and a runlock is ideal. Just wondering if it would be worth it on a domestic car.

[05omegav6]

You still have to go outside and start it... far better to stay warm and toasty in bed until the sun has defrosted the car for you 4 hour lie in anyone

[Kevin Wood]

You still have to go outside and start it... far better to stay warm and toasty in bed until the sun has defrosted the car for you 4 hour lie in anyone

yeah, I'll just clear that with my boss.

[05omegav6]

You still have to go outside and start it... far better to stay warm and toasty in bed until the sun has defrosted the car for you 4 hour lie in anyone

yeah, I'll just clear that with my boss.

Good luck with that

[Crazycarzowner]

Run lock is a great idea WHEN IT WORKS One of our cars isn't wired up right  (saying nothin about the garages  ) went to a RTC  put run lock on (allegedly) then a colleague needed to move the car, I gave him the key he moved it and I forgot to ask for it back. We all then resumed I got back in the car & drove it all the way back to the nick with no key. Only realised when I got out to lock it. 

[scimmy_man]

how about these?
http://www.enginepreheater.co.uk/

the fan heater sounds better,
Wife had a car with a kenlowe and either she didnt plug it in, or worse forgot to unplug when she drove off.