Programming Tools

Programming tools for remote starters and bypass modules

Most remote start and bypass modules ship blank. Before one will work in a particular vehicle it has to be flashed with firmware written for that year, make and model, and these are the tools that do it. They connect the module to a computer or phone, pull the correct firmware down, and write it to the module in seconds.

Do you need one?

Probably not, if you're buying from us. We pre-program modules before they ship on most vehicles, so the part arrives ready to install. A tool is worth owning if you install regularly, if you want to change firmware or feature settings later, or if you bought a module elsewhere that arrived unflashed.

Note that some solutions use a two-stage programming process, flagged with ⭕ on our product pages. Those cannot be finished without the right tool, so if you're doing that install yourself you will need one.

Which tool do I need?

Fortin modules use the FLASHLINK Updater, available as a USB unit for a Windows PC or as a mobile version. The R-LINK tools are a different job again: they handle key programming on European and selected GM and Mazda platforms.

iDatalink, iDatastart and Compustar modules use the ADS-USB Weblink Updater. The ECO version is a lower-cost option, and the HUB version is built for shops flashing several modules.

Directed and Viper modules use the XKLOADER2, the Bluetooth XKLOADER3, or the DLOADER4.

Compustar feature settings can be changed with the OP500 Feature Programmer, which adjusts how an installed system behaves rather than flashing firmware.

Not sure which one fits your module?

Call us on 647-439-4485 and tell us what you're installing. Buying the wrong tool is an easy mistake and an expensive one, and we'd rather you got it right the first time. See also our bypass modules.

Shop the range

12 products

  • Fortin FLASHLINK Updater V4 Programming Tool - Lockdown Security

    Fortin FLASHLINK Updater V4 Programming Tool

    2 total reviews

    Regular price $69.99 CAD
    Sale price $69.99 CAD Regular price
  • Idatalink ADS-USB Weblink Updater Programming Tool - Lockdown Security

    iDatalink ADS-USB Weblink Updater Programming Tool

    Regular price $99.99 CAD
    Sale price $99.99 CAD Regular price
  • iDatalink ADS-USB-ECO Programming Tool with professional installation, technical support, fast shipping by Connected Car Experts

    iDatalink ADS-USB-ECO Programming Tool

    Regular price $34.99 CAD
    Sale price $34.99 CAD Regular price
  • Compustar OP500 Feature Programmer with professional installation, technical support, fast shipping by Connected Car Experts

    Compustar OP500 Feature Programmer

    Regular price $129.99 CAD
    Sale price $129.99 CAD Regular price
  • Fortin R-LINK Volkswagen / Audi Key Programming Tool - Lockdown Security

    Fortin R-LINK Audi, Volkswagen Key Programming Tool

    Regular price $59.99 CAD
    Sale price $59.99 CAD Regular price
  • Idatalink ADS-USB-HUB Programming Tool - Lockdown Security

    iDatalink ADS-USB-HUB Programming Tool

    Regular price $299.99 CAD
    Sale price $299.99 CAD Regular price
  • Fortin FLASHLINK Mobile Programming Tool - Lockdown Security

    Fortin FLASHLINK Mobile Programming Tool

    Regular price $299.99 CAD
    Sale price $299.99 CAD Regular price
  • Directed Electronics XKLOADER2 USB Programming Tool - Lockdown Security

    Directed Electronics XKLOADER2 USB Programming Tool

    Regular price $64.99 CAD
    Sale price $64.99 CAD Regular price
  • Fortin R-LINK 2 Programming Tool, For Fortin EVO-X-ONE with Professional Installation, Technical Support, Fast Shipping Connected Car Experts

    Fortin R-LINK 2 Programming Tool

    Regular price $149.99 CAD
    Sale price $149.99 CAD Regular price
  • Fortin R-LINK 3 Programming Tool, For Fortin EVO-X-ONE with professional installation, technical support, fast shipping, Connected Car Experts

    Fortin R-LINK 3 Programming Tool

    Regular price $149.99 CAD
    Sale price $149.99 CAD Regular price
  • Directed Electronics XKLOADER3 Bluetooth OBDII Programming Tool - Lockdown Security

    Directed Electronics XKLOADER3 Bluetooth OBDII Programming Tool

    Regular price $464.99 CAD
    Sale price $464.99 CAD Regular price
  • Directed Electronics DLOADER4 Programming Tool with carrying case USB and diagnostic connectors Professional Installation Fast Shipping Connected Car Experts

    Directed Electronics DLOADER4 Programming Tool

    Regular price $229.99 CAD
    Sale price $229.99 CAD Regular price

Buying guide

Programming tools for remote starters and bypass modules

Most remote start and bypass modules ship blank. Before one will work in a particular vehicle it has to be flashed with firmware written for that year, make and model, and these are the tools that do it. They connect the module to a computer or phone, pull the correct firmware down, and write it to the module in seconds.

Do you need one?

Probably not, if you're buying from us. We pre-program modules before they ship on most vehicles, so the part arrives ready to install. A tool is worth owning if you install regularly, if you want to change firmware or feature settings later, or if you bought a module elsewhere that arrived unflashed.

Note that some solutions use a two-stage programming process, flagged with ⭕ on our product pages. Those cannot be finished without the right tool, so if you're doing that install yourself you will need one.

Which tool do I need?

Fortin modules use the FLASHLINK Updater, available as a USB unit for a Windows PC or as a mobile version. The R-LINK tools are a different job again: they handle key programming on European and selected GM and Mazda platforms.

iDatalink, iDatastart and Compustar modules use the ADS-USB Weblink Updater. The ECO version is a lower-cost option, and the HUB version is built for shops flashing several modules.

Directed and Viper modules use the XKLOADER2, the Bluetooth XKLOADER3, or the DLOADER4.

Compustar feature settings can be changed with the OP500 Feature Programmer, which adjusts how an installed system behaves rather than flashing firmware.

Not sure which one fits your module?

Call us on 647-439-4485 and tell us what you're installing. Buying the wrong tool is an easy mistake and an expensive one, and we'd rather you got it right the first time. See also our bypass modules.

Looking for something else?

Browse every remote starter accessory, from key fob kits and smartphone controllers to relays, switches and install supplies. Or have us fit it: we install remote starters, alarms and their accessories at our Markham shop.

Common questions

Will it work with my system?

Usually, but check the product page. Some parts work with almost any remote starter or alarm, and some are made for specific control modules. Each product page lists what it works with. Not sure what you have? Text us a photo of the module and we'll tell you.

Can you install it for me?

Yes. We install remote starters, alarms and their accessories at our Markham shop, and every install is backed by our lifetime installation warranty. Book an installation.

Do you ship across Canada?

Yes. Shipping is free on orders over $200.

Not sure what you need?

Tell us what you're installing and on what vehicle, and we'll point you at the right part.