I have a 2020 Nissan Frontier Pro4x and got a remote start with an app module. I've had the issue of there being a quick grinding noise at start up that is exclusive to when I use the app or my fob to remote start. It isn't consistent, so it isn't every single time I remote start with those options, but for sure it has never occurred when doing a regular start from inside the truck (push start). The sporadic nature of it has made it very difficult to chase down but here's what I've tried.
Here are some videos I've managed to catch since it isn't consistent;
- With engine bay open
- From a distance
- Less noticeable, but from the bottom of the truck
- two clips in one
I am in the process of getting the module replaced, so I will know for sure later. BUT! I initially suspected a bad battery. Sometimes the startup sounded weak, or the my daylight running lights looked a little odd when starting up. So I was saving for a nice AGM battery. Now months later I finally upgraded the battery and it is still doing it. The battery in there now is a group 24F AGM from X2. It is a significant upgrade, no so much for this issue, but wanted good reverse time for running a portable smoker when camping. This battery has plenty of crank and capacity, so I think it's safe to say it wasn't the battery before.
Just by process of elimination, it seems the remote start is to blame, but just don't know why it would matter, but seems it does. Would it be a weak or corrupted signal being sent? Regular push start has never caused it. This is all under the huge assumption that what I'm hearing is the flywheel slipping, not sure what else it could be. I did check for loose things everywhere, thought maybe one of the flimsy OEM skid plates where rattling or something but everything seems buttoned up.
Alright, mini update because I feel like the real test will be some weeks from now. Got the new unit and it works! So far anyways. Start up sounds normal, not only no grinding, but there isn't the occasional weird clicking either. I notices that the labels where it says FW where different. I assume FW is for firmware? Whatever this new number is, it works as intended.
If it's an aftermarket remote start not only is it probably causing this problem, you're lucky major damage wasn't done to your vehicle's electrical system.
If it's a factory system a 2020 model should still be under warranty, get the dealer to fix it.
It is aftermarket, should have included that on my post. It's a kit from 12 Volt Solutions.
They don't make a factory remote start, at least I haven't found it. The one available is for 2022+
I am not trying to defend the kit, I would just like to know why. To me, it looks like the problem is definitely the remote start, and ultimately my best solution (assuming the replacement has the same issue) is to remove it and simply not have a remote start. I am still however curious what is happening here.
Edit: fixed the link
I would just like to know why.
The reason why is that 99.9% of those aftermarket remote start kits are poorly-designed crap that can cause electrical problems, and can even cause mechanical problems with the starter. Additionally 99.9% of the installers don't know what they are doing when they are mucking around with the wiring. The electrical systems in today's cars are extremely complex and sensitive.
Which seems to be the case here. I really want the remote start, but I will yank that thing out if the new one is causing problems. I know I am being stubborn here, but I am hopeful the new one will work better. If it doesn't, I should REALLY count my blessings that nothing else has exploded. I installed this myself, arguably know what I'm doing, but the problem lies on the unit since I can confirm for sure that it doesn't occur on regular push start. My fear is that this grinding is causing permanent damage, which if I'm hearing it then that's probably true, that even if the new one works, or remove it, it will be the breeding ground for problems later.
who installed it?
I installed it myself. At this point, I've installed it 3 times haha. The company has been very helpful in trouble shooting and I've removed it all and installed step by step a couple times.
A factory installed remote start system shouldn't cause such problems unless they have horribly bad quality remote start systems on those cars. So either it's a low quality remote start system or it's a faulty one or it's aftermarket.
At the time I was looking for a system, there was only one company that offered it and it was out of stock (Remote X). A couple years later, I bought another Frontier and 12 Volt Solutions not only had it available, but it was specific to the push start. They seemed reputable, but I am not familiar with the remote start companies. Seems like most use the same modules or variations of the same. What I did find interesting is that the app module (separate from the main unit) is exactly the same as what already came with the truck for Theft Patrol.
See the remote start systems that come from the factory standard on the car have been done properly and installed while the car was being built and the car was made to have and work with a remote start system. While the one you bought could be a reputable brand but still they installed it aftermarket and even a tiny error could cause a lot of problems. Also, your car wasn't built for supporting remote start system. So the best thing to do is remove it and just forget about having remote start.
Remove it from the truck and throw it in the nearest lake. Then, get your money back. Or, get a remote start system installed by a professional. Or, use the key and forget about remote start altogether.
quick grinding noise at start up
Sounds like the solenoid is being held in too long after the engine starts.
Aftermarket remote starts are usually garbage if the vehicle wasn't designed for it.
I would forget about it.
I hear you guys loud and clear. I need to rip this thing out.
I do however have the replacement coming in the mail as I type this, so against the overwhelming consensus stop while I'm ahead, I do want to give the new unit a try. Will not be doing any remote starts in the mean time that's for sure. I greatly appreciate the advice.