Audio Systems: Remote starter question, antenna configuration, steel siding

Question
Hello,
I don't know if you can help me but I figure I would at least ask.  I just had a DEI Rattler Model 369D remote starter installed in my 2004 Honda Accord EX V6 at Circuit City.  It worked fine in their parking lot, however when I got home it only worked if I was right next to the car.  Also, it works fine in the parking lot at my work place, but that is 10 miles from my home.

In my town there are some very tall radio towers.  Could they cause the remote starter to not work at home?  I had a different remote starter (Prestige) in my last car (Chrysler) that worked fine at home.  Before I complain at Circuit City I'm wondering if you can give any advice, also do you think the Rattler is a good model or should I have it uninstalled?
Thanks,
Kevin

Answer
My advice is to take it back and see if they can correct the problem.
You might try a Prestige if this DEI does not work out for you [since the Prestige you previously had, worked fine for you]. There is nothing to avoid complaining about either.. as the unit is called a 'remote starter' and apparently, it does NOT do its' job from your home. *They do have a limited range that can be affected by a number of factors.

As to radio towers causing the problem, anything is possible (many towns have large attenna arrays and remote starters operate fine near them), but the receivers' antenna configuration in the car or something like steel siding on a house would be more likely to cause transmission/reception problems, imho. So take it back to CC and see if there is a simple adjustment they can do that will make it work while in your house.

I generally do not downtalk any manufacturers and really do not know which device may be better to use in your particular situation. In the future, it might be a good idea to go with a brand name (and intallation shop) that you have had good performance/experience with before [as Circuit City/Best Buy  ect.. are not known for their certified 'master installers'] and understand that they likely do not even require that certification with as much employee turnover as they have in that area.
If there is any doubt, ask to see their MECP Silver Level-Security Specialist certification plaque.
If they cannot produce one, you are most likely in the WRONG hands.
If they can only produce a Bronze one.. get a refund and get out of there as fast as possible, as that means they are minimally certified in "12-volt electronics, installation technique, shop safety and mobile electronics components" with NO certified skills in Security systems.

What I am saying, is to be SURE your Security installer is qualified before going any further. If they are certified, explain the problem to them and it should be corrected in little time.



Sincerely,
Jerry Mael