As I am approaching the installation of my Viper system on my 2010 FX4 I am wondering about other people's experiences with BestBuy installation techs. I did a google search and read both bad and good things, however most of the reviews I read were a few years old. Has anybody had BestBuy install anything in their truck? The rumor is that the tech here at my local BestBuy is the best installer in the district, but this came from a worker inside the store. I have read some horror stories like the cruise control, heater, windows and AC had all stopped working after BestBuy installed their alarm/remote start.

What are your thoughts? I can go somewhere else for install but I am moving soon due to military transfer which means if I need warranty work done I am out of luck. At least with BestBuy I can have warranty work done at any BestBuy in the country.

Thanks!

 

It is all about the tech. You are right Best Buy is national but so is DEI. The warranty is supposed to be valid through any authorized DEI dealer.

Another note is that DEI now has CAN BUS interface modules for Ford. So there is a lot less wiring splicing. Most control happens through the communications which like any computer can have issues at times. I had one in my 2010 Chevy 2500 it worked flawlessly.

 

^2

I've let them do simple things when installation is free or discounted like head units or replacing speakers, but I'd be leery of anything advanced, especially cutting into the factory harness.

I'd like remote start but am fairly freaked out about both that & bypassing PATS.

 

I do not have a factory remote start or security system. I just hope they don't mess anything else up like my cruise control.

 

Its a pretty big gamble, for sure. Best buy doesnt exactly go out and hire the best and brightest techs. You moving shortly puts a huge kink into things as that really prevents you from using a local shop(which is a shame, because I know for me my local shop is fantastic). I know no one wants to hear this, but if you are moving soon, I would just wait and have it done once you move. That way you can pick a reputable shop that specializes in alarms/autostarts and be able to return to it if you are having a problem. Just my 2 cents, anyway.

 

Well when I ordered the system on BestBuy.com the price included installation. However I don't have to use them, although it would be wasting about $200. All I have heard so far is people's recommendations. Are there any personal experiences (good or bad) worth mentioning?

 

I'd go for it. Maybe find a guy who knows what hes doing and tip him a bit.

 

I think I will go for it. If anything messes up at least it's under warranty. Or I can request my money back and go to another authorized dealer.

 

Like any car place hires einsteins to hook up remote starts. Just depends on where you go.

 

Does anybody know if the driver seat will move forward after the remote start is activated? Or does it only work when the key is inserted?

 

should work without key etc.

 

I figured it would because the bypass tricks the system into thinking theres a key in the ignition.

 

when are you getting your installation done? i'm getting a viper alarm and remote start installed on monday the 30th. If i get mine installed first ill let you know how mine went.

 

I am scheduled for February 4th. The installer at my local BestBuy is on vacation until then. Also I am waiting for an audio window break sensor to arrive so that I can have the installer put it in at the same time. I am feeling pretty confident in these installers. I spoke with the manager and he said that they have to be state certified before they hire them. Also they have to have experience installing car audio/security, remote start systems. I guess both installers in my area have a good reputation.

Definitely let me know how yours ended up. What model Viper system did you get? Did you buy it from BestBuy?

 

Sorry for the super late response, but yes I did buy it from best buy.
I got the 5204 for $200 with installation reason is I work for best buy mobile(cell phones) I'm pretty exited to get this installation done I hate having to go outside to warm up my truck!