Buying and driving tips

• Check the return policy if you buy from a retailer that doesn't do installations, and make sure the remote start is compatible with the make, model and year of your vehicle.

• Find a place that specializes in installation and sales of remote starters, or check with your own mechanic. Best Buy, Dealer Automotive Services in Hopkins and Ziebart are a few that sell remote starters and install them regularly.

• Drive a cold car for 12 minutes in 14-degree weather and you'll achieve the same interior temperature as a car idling for 30 minutes, according to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation. But avoid rapid acceleration for the 12 minutes to keep from stressing the engine.

JOHN EWOLDT