virtual tach reliability?

i prefer to use a good valid tach source whereever possible, but i find the new DEI units are erratic on learning tach... some just wont learn an injector or tach source for some reason so we use "virtual tach" and i have yet to have one come back to me with problems....Kevin Gerry

Certified Electronics Technician

MECP First Class Installer

Owner/Installer

Classic Car Audio

since 1979

i had the same problem with some ford crown vics and expedition the injectors don't work the cars that i done are on 98  to 2002 that i had problems with so i just do voltage sensing and never had any come backs with this type they start the first time  some dei and other alarms don't detect this type of voltage because is not ac they used 12 bolts pulses

"virtual tach reliability?" Of course NOT. It's a bit of work to hook up the tach wire, but you will sleep better. I have not done an install without hooking up the tach wire. Here is my logic. If the engineer behind these remote starter unit has enough confidence to say the technology behind the virtual tach is reliable, they would have remove the tach wire design off the remote starter unit. Until they do, I would make the tach wire connection for a piece of mind. Be careful whose advice you buy, but be patient with those who supply it.

I tried the "virtual tach" for a couple cars and had nothign but problems. Like just crank the first go and then not start but then would start on the second go around. In my eyes that is not a working r/s so its nothing but real tach for me. I actually think I might trust voltage more than virtual tach.

Just did a remote start in an 06 ford escape and i'm glad i ran tach on that.  let it sit out overnigth and the difference in crank time was huge.. i doubt virtual tach would have compensated but i'll tell you that crank time wouldn't have been right lol.2008 Dodge Ram 1500

MECP Certified Advanced Installer CEA 191700

I do tach exclusively, when temps get down to -20, I just don't trust virtual tach.Brent Haugen

Fargo, ND

supposedly the virtual tach was engineered in canada where it is not uncommon to get temps -20.  Although i still religiously use a tach wire!  ive got a 5101 in a 06 corolla coming back tomorrow for no strarts.  i think im finally going to try virtual tach and see how it goes.