I originally posted this under general and received a few comments . I’m posting it here hoping for more.

Last week I had the DBS. I need to buy a Priority Start device. http://www.prioritystart.com/

There are 2 types – Pro SP and AUTO. After talking with them I still don’t know which to buy. Can anyone offer a suggestion?

ALSO, Can anyone suggest a compact, rechargeable, battery jump starter?

Thanks All!
J

 

Suggestions:

1. Get Priority Start Pro. The difference is the surge/spike protector. Even though most modern automotive electronics (Nav, Radio, ECM, BCM,...) are resistant to spikes and line trash, for $20 why not go for the additional protection....

2. Jump Start: After installing the Priority Start you probably wont need one, but Harbor Freight had one on sale for $39 last week, may still be available.

 

Thanks Lowlead! Priority Start couldn't explain in 10 minutes what you did in two sentence!

 

I called them about this and they told me that the only time you need the pro version is when you are using "noisy" devices like CB's, police radios, or other devices that you might be using with the car turned off. They said things like those could confuse the Priority Start module into thinking the car is running when it is really not (or vice versa). I got the regular version and it works perfectly.

From what they told me, the "noise suppression" in the pro version is only for detection of the run/accessosory mode and has nothing to do with surge suppression. I don't think it "filters" the power so you get the equivalent of a surge suppressor. It simply has more complex circuitry to detect the run versus accessory mode so that it can more accurately detect when the motor is running. I see no need to get the pro version unless you are planning to modify your C6 for law enforcement and you plan to use 2 way radios or lights/sirens with the car off.

Bottom line was that for the C6, Priority Start customer support advised me against getting the pro version and I think that was a good decision.

Mike

 

I had problems with PriortyStart on my C6.I think the time it took for the computer to go into sleep mode was enough to disconnect.Opening a door,pressing the brake,etc would not reconnect the power.I had to disconnect and reconnect the negative wire at the battery terminal to get the power back on.I have had no problem with DBS but added P/S only proactively.I have since taken it back off.I replaced the Delco with an Optima RedTop,and that will have to do for now

 

I've read that another CF member had the same problem. The "fix" was to press in the cigarette lighter. Most everything else (brake, map lights, headlights) is either controlled by the BCM or draws too little current to trigger the PS to reset itself.

 

I couldn't find that link. If you can recall his/her name I would appreciate it very much.

Having to push in the lighter would be a good indication that the Priority Start device was needed.

J

 

The cigarette lighter is the only thing that works for me. I've had PriorityStart on mine for over 3 months now and while I've tested it by intentionally leaving the lights on and it works, the unit has never had to cut power once yet as a result of just leaving the car unattended in a normal fashion. It's cheap insurance as I know for a fact that I'll never go out to a dead battery. I've left it sitting for up to 2 weeks at a time so far and I still have power and the PriorityStart hasn't needed to shut it down.

Mike

 

Sounds like a good investment!

 

Anyone see why a PS might void the warranty?

I can hear it now when my vette is towed to the dealer....

Maybe remove it first......

 

Thanks,LowLead!That would have never occured to me,as I never use the lighter.I'm going to hook it up again and see if that works for me as well.I love this forum!

 

Just ordered the Priority Start Auto. I worked with Eddie - give him a call if you have any question - great customer service!!

1 (818) 363-5390 | Mon-Thurs: 8AM - 5PM | Fri: 8AM - 1PM (Pacific Standard Time)


I'll let you all know how it turns out.

J


And no I'm NOT a store employee!!

 

Post when you get it if you have questions about placement, how to attach it to the battery, etc.

Mike

 

Will do! Thanks Mike!

J

 

If you have to use anything inside the car to reactivate the battery saver, does this mean you have to go through the emergency entrance routine??

 

Yes. You'd still have to pop the trunk and pull the door release to get in. When the Priority Start module activates due to low battery voltage, it shuts off all power to the car.

Mike

 

Mike,

Thanks for the quick response. I have a month old C6 coupe, 6 spd, and for the second time yesterday the battery was dead after sitting for 2 days. Dealer is no help.

I found a site for "battery brain" which is similar to "priority start" but can be purchased with an optional remote to activate it. Does anyone have any experience with this particular brand? The remote feature makes it seem very attactive. Cost is ~$69 with remote.

Thanks again.
Charlie