So I got a remote start installed on a 2018 Super Duty today. I've used this installer before--good service and they have good remotes. One of the "features" though is that they do an automatic "re-arm" and lock the doors after starting. I've had them disable this on every install in the past. I figure if the vehicle is in my driveway (in the country) I don't want it locked. If it's in the parking lot at a store, it's already locked.
This has always worked, up until the current install. Apparently newer Ford vehicles have the remote start module installed whether there is a factory remote installed or not, and they tap into the module with the aftermarket remote. So even though the installed remote start has the re-arm disabled, the Ford module automatically locks the doors when the remote start is triggered.
I also found that the heated seats turn on high as soon as the key is inserted and turned to the "on" position. I assume (hope) that this is an automatic feature and won't happen when the temperature is warm. So several questions if anyone has experience...
Since the truck didn't have the factory remote start, the remote start options aren't accessible in the dashboard menus. Can a dealer make that menu accessible, and can those options be changed now that the remote start module is being used? Is the re-arm (auto lock) a selectable option even if the remote start options are made available?