Are you finding the factory remote start range on your 2015 Ford F150 a bit limiting? Many F150 owners experience this frustration, especially when they’re not within close proximity to their vehicle. Fortunately, there’s a way to significantly extend your remote start range without complex wiring or modifications. This guide will walk you through how to upgrade your existing factory remote start system on your 2015 F150 using an OBD2 “plug and play” solution, focusing on range extension and ease of installation.
Why Extend Your 2015 F150 Remote Start Range?
Factory remote start systems, while convenient, often lack the range needed in various situations. Whether you’re at work, in a large building, or simply further away from your truck than expected, the standard range can be insufficient. Upgrading to a long-range remote start provides peace of mind and convenience, ensuring your F150 is warmed up or cooled down to your desired temperature before you even reach it.
OBD2: The Key to Easy Remote Start Extension for Your F150
For 2015 F150 models already equipped with a factory remote start, extending the range can be surprisingly straightforward thanks to OBD2 interface modules. Instead of cutting and splicing wires, this method leverages the OBD2 port for a cleaner and less invasive installation. This approach often utilizes modules like Directed DBALL or DBALL2, known for their compatibility and expandability.
Components You’ll Need for Your OBD2 Remote Start Upgrade
To extend your 2015 F150’s remote start range using the OBD2 method, you’ll typically need the following components:
- Directed DBALL or DBALL2 Interface Module: This module acts as the brain of your range extender system, interfacing with your F150’s electronics via the OBD2 port. It needs to be flashed with specific firmware to work with your vehicle.
- Long-Range Remote and Receiver Kit: This kit includes a new remote fob with extended range capabilities and a receiver module that communicates with the DBALL/DBALL2. Look for kits that offer ranges of one mile or more for significant improvement.
- T-Harness and OBD2 Male Plug: A T-harness simplifies the connection to your F150’s OBD2 port, allowing you to maintain the original OBD2 port functionality. An OBD2 male plug is used to create a “plug and play” connection with the T-harness and the DBALL/DBALL2 module.
Image of an OBD2 splitter cable, illustrating how a T-harness maintains OBD2 port access while adding connections for the remote start module.
Note: While soldering can be used for connecting the OBD2 plug, consider a crimp-style OBD2 plug if you prefer to avoid soldering.
Image of an OBD2 male connector plug, highlighting the wiring connections needed for a DIY OBD2 remote start installation.
Installation Steps: Extending Your F150 Remote Start via OBD2
While specific steps may vary slightly depending on the exact components you choose, here’s a general guide to the installation process:
- Firmware Flashing: The DBALL or DBALL2 module needs to be flashed with the correct firmware for your 2015 F150 and the remote start extender functionality. This often requires dealer support or specialized services as Directed typically restricts firmware access to authorized dealers.
- Wiring the OBD2 Plug and T-Harness: Connect the wires from the DBALL/DBALL2 module to the OBD2 male plug. Use the T-harness to connect to your F150’s OBD2 port, plugging the male OBD2 plug into the T-harness. This creates a pass-through connection, maintaining your original OBD2 port.
- Module Programming: Connect the DBALL/DBALL2 module to the T-harness plugged into your F150’s OBD2 port. Follow the module’s programming instructions, which often involve pressing a programming switch a specific number of times until an LED indicator signals completion. Crucially, do not connect the long-range remote receiver module at this stage.
- Disconnect and Connect Receiver: After programming the main module, disconnect it from power. Now, connect the long-range remote receiver module to the DBALL/DBALL2 module according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Final Installation and Testing: Mount the combined DBALL/DBALL2 and receiver modules in a secure location, such as under the dash in the footwell area. Ensure the remote receiver antenna has adequate exposure for optimal range (especially for GSM-based SmartStart modules). Test the extended range remote start system to confirm proper operation.
Important Considerations and Tips
- Professional Assistance: Due to the firmware flashing requirement and the technical nature of car electronics, seeking assistance from a professional installer or a dealer familiar with Directed products is recommended, especially for activating SmartStart modules.
- Module Programming Sequence: Adhering to the correct programming sequence, particularly programming the main module before connecting the remote receiver, is critical for successful installation.
- Receiver Placement: For optimal long-range performance, especially with cellular-based systems like SmartStart, consider the placement of the receiver module to ensure good signal reception.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the vehicle’s battery during installation to prevent electrical shorts or damage.
Conclusion: Enhance Your F150 Remote Start Experience
Upgrading your 2015 Ford F150’s factory remote start with an OBD2-based range extender is a worthwhile modification for increased convenience and usability. By utilizing a plug-and-play approach and readily available components, you can enjoy the benefits of a long-range remote start without complex and intrusive wiring. Enjoy the comfort of a pre-conditioned F150, no matter how far away you are!
