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Through its Direct Connection performance parts brand,
Dodge
has launched a new theft deterrent device for all
Hemi-powered
muscle cars it no longer makes. Why this wasn’t done four years ago when Hellcats and the like were getting stolen constantly is a question we’d love to have answered, but we suppose it’s better late than never.
A suspect tosses an active grenade during a police pursuit.
This new gadget named the Start Defender operates solely with
Dodge Chargers
and
Challengers
fitted with a Hemi V8, since everyone else is irrelevant. Additionally, who would want to steal a V6? Furthermore, the vehicle must be from 2018 through 2023.
A start interruption system based on CAN, called Start Defender, may necessitate two-factor authentication prior to enabling a Dodge Charger or Challenger.
will even start
Someone will have to input the right series of button presses on the device and then verify their identity as either the car owner or someone approved by the owner before starting the engine.
Due to numerous theft attempts targeting the ignition of Dodges, this feature is designed to thwart criminals effectively. It can be briefly deactivated when you need to go through a carwash or take your vehicle to a repair shop.
There are four distinct button sequences that can be configured for a Start Defender system. This allows up to four individuals to each have their personal code when using the same vehicle. Anyone who gains access to the associated online account will also have this capability.
cut someone off
from the ignition.
Pardon our skepticism as we question whether this solution is truly the panacea some people claim it to be. We’ve witnessed previous upgrades from Dodge meant to curb thefts, but unfortunately, criminals found ways to bypass these measures. The only systems that have proven reliable thus far are third-party ignition-blocking units, similar to what might address your concerns here. Hence, maybe this new approach could prove successful too.
As per Dodge, the Direct Connection Start Defender system has a price tag of $695 for the equipment. The installation can be done independently by an owner or carried out at a workshop.
The image is from Stellantis. Through their Direct Connection performance parts brand,
Dodge
has introduced a new anti-theft mechanism for everyone
Hemi-powered
Muscle cars it no longer produces. The fact that this hasn’t been implemented four years ago when models like the Hellcat were frequently being taken is something we’re eager to understand, but we guess it’s preferable later than not at all.
A suspect tosses an active grenade during a police pursuit.
This new gadget named the Start Defender operates exclusively with
Dodge Chargers
and
Challengers
fitted with a Hemi V8, since everyone else is irrelevant. Additionally, who would want to steal a V6? The vehicle must also fall within the 2018 to 2023 model years.
A CAN-based starting circuit interrupt system, Start Defender can require two-factor authentication before a Dodge Charger or Challenger
will even start
. Someone will need to type in a correct sequence of buttons on the device, then authenticate they’re the car owner or are authorized by the owner to start the engine.
Because so many thieves attack the ignition on Dodge’s this is supposed to stop them dead in their tracks. It can be temporarily disabled for going through car washes or taking the vehicle to the shop.
Four different button sequences can be programmed into a Start Defender, so you could have four different people with their own codes using the same vehicle. Whoever has access to the online account can then just
cut someone off
from the ignition.
Excuse us if we’re a little skeptical this is the magic bullet so many seem to believe it is. We’ve seen updates to Dodges which were supposed to end the theft trend, only for thieves to get around them. The only devices we’ve seen really work are aftermarket pre-ignition, somewhat like this, so perhaps this will be effective.
Dodge states that the Direct Connection Start Defender system has a price of $695 for the hardware component. Vehicle owners have the option to install it personally or opt for professional installation at a facility.
Image via Stellantis
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