Hmmm my 2000 silverado has the plugs there for the few missing options, most just plug in and work ie mirrors with compass and temp readout and the radio controls on the steering wheel, all of which were a simple plug in, no programing required. Some options require the a trip to the dealer to reflash the body management computer which is expensive but do-able. I wouldn't imagine in 2012 that they are manufacturing different computers for different options as opposed to flashing them according to the options list. As far as the remote start goes we do not want an aftermarket especially with the key/push button start and having to add another fob. The Res+ looks to be a smart phone app that contols most of the creature comforts in the car and is dealer installed OEM. From what I can tell it is not available on the IS yet. Not to sure about the other models, havent looked.