Can a remote starter damage a transmission?

Hey folks! I searched the forum and saw loads of remote starter questions, but very few dealt with transmissions that get stuck as a result of the remote starter.

I’m considering purchasing my first Tundra, and I found a great 2019. Non Toyota Dealer has offered me an awesome deal, but I called a Toyota dealer to check the VIN.

Apparently the previous owner had an aftermarket remote starter installed and the truck was getting stuck in gear. Not sure if it was stuck in park, if it failed to start, or if it was just not shifting while driving. The Toyota dealer removed the remote starter and everything cleaned up. Truck runs great now.

My question: could the transmission or some component have been damaged by this? The Toyota service guy insisted to me the electronics and wiring are fine. There aren’t any long term concerns. But what do you all think?

I’ve had enough issues with my current truck. I don’t want to buy a Tundra that the previous owner may have boogered.

Thanks in advance, and sorry for yet another thread on remote starters.

 

I've had one remote start system die on me in a different Toyota, and that one acted like my battery was flat. No power anywhere in the vehicle, at all. Unhooked just the ignition connection and while the remote start didn't work anymore, the rest of the vehicle was suddenly extremely happy again.

Part of these systems is a bidirectional communication link to the ECU for important information. Keeps the remote start system from working when, say, your truck is already started, or in any gear other than park. I could see where the software could cause communication disruptions. I don't believe it would cause physical harm to transmission parts directly unless it did something strange like not shift well, and then was driven that way for some time. If the problem was immediately noticed and the system pulled right away, I wouldn't think anything of it.

Edit: You didn't note how many miles were on this 2019. Under 20k? Absolutely not worried, carry on, maybe change the trans fluid a few miles early from regular interval. If it's got 60k? Hmmm maybe let's be certain it's had a fluid change. 100k? Yeah let's make them drop the pan early and swap out the internal filter and gasket and call it a day.

 

It’s sitting right on 40,000 miles. I have an appointment set on Monday to do a used vehicle inspection at an independent shop I trust. I’ll be sure to note this to them so they can pay special attention to it, check for codes, etc. The truck was absolutely immaculate. Even the frame was clean and unblemished. Hitch was not even used and looked factory new. Doesn’t seem like the type of owner to drive on a misbehaving transmission.