Auto Start via button & remotely

[Nathum]

Hi All,

I really needed somewhere to brag so why not here.

I am creating a Auto Start Button for my Manual SS here are the things i'm implementing.

• Single Start / Stop push button
• Android Remote Unlock / Lock
• Android Remote Start / Stop

So today I wrote the application for the start / stop / Accessories using an Arduino. I did start to use Raspberry Pi but figured that I need something more reliable to be doing that bit.

I have programmed the Arduino to use a 4 channel relay board, but going to change that to a 8 Channel latching relay, just in case something funky happens.

For the remote start I found the hard part was trying to figure out if my car is in gear or not. I do not believe the gearbox gives you that reading. So my way around this was to tell the Arduino.

1. Is the key ignition on? if yes (Prevents Steering Lock)
2. Is the car running? if yes
3. Is the hand break on? if yes
4. Is the clutch up? if yes
5. If all yes then turn off car and arm Remote Start

You would assume the the car is not in gear.

The start buttons a different story. I did not want the car to start as soon as the buttons hit. So to start the car here are the steps to take.

1. Is the car running? if no
2. Is the key ignition on? if yes (Prevents Steering Lock)
3. Is the foot on the break? if yes
4. Is the clutch down? if yes
5. Has the start button been held down for 2 seconds?
6. Then start the car.

Update: 28/6/2019
I got a bit carried away and built a car stereo to talk to the Arduino

Now I needed to write something in python to give me stats, so.. I did.

And of course a mobile app to talk remotely over 4G network.

More to come...........

 

[VRStato64]

Many people have done remote start before dunno if there has been any build logs for them tho. Hopefully one of those people will chime in with some experience.

Clever use of the Arduino imo.

 

[Nathum]

So, I have successfully done half of the project. I'll update my first post, kinda got a little carried away with ditching the stereo and building a raspberry pi touch screen that also can control the car. I used the Arduino to be the reliable part and used serial to Arduino to send commands from the Raspberry pi.

The issue bugging me now are

• It takes about 4 seconds to get readings from the Clutch/Break/Handbreak sensors after ignition on.
• Steering lock (Spare key must be in the ignition position for any remote start to work.)
• Remote start does not work if bad contact with spare key (Immobiliser sometimes gets engaged) Loud horn noise.
• When car is locked using remote start, the car doors will not unlock or lock with the main key. (Alternative hack the key to open doors first)

So yea a few issues to work out.