We are buying a used Edge from a local Ford dealer. It is equipped with everything
under the sun...except REMOTE START. Is there a way to know if it was equipped
and the fob-buttons were lost by the previous owner?

 

Search online or contact a local dealer for the original window sticker. Should be able to get it via your VIN. Factory remote start will be listed if it was included. If it did come equipped with it, search out a good local locksmith, they should be much more affordable than a dealership