Anti-theft systems have become a part of our lives. Currently, it is difficult to imagine any modern car that is devoid of this useful option. From year to year, manufacturers of the presented systems offer motorists more and more new developments that are strikingly different from their previous analogues.
Having undergone dramatic changes, car security systems become virtually invulnerable to lovers of easy money. But, at the same time, with the advent of such new products on the automotive market, motorists sometimes face a number of problems regarding the use of such protective equipment.
For example, situations arise when the anti-theft system fails and it becomes necessary to disable it without the key fob. This article is devoted to this problem.
Causes of breakdowns
A car alarm may fail due to:
- Presence of radio interference. Such situations arise in large cities and megalopolises, where a large number of cars and other electronic devices accumulate. Intensely emitted radio waves can cancel out and interfere with each other. To solve the problem, you just need to come close to the car - and its sensor will recognize the signal from the “native” key fob.
- Damage to the control panel. If the key fob has been dropped, been hit hard, gotten wet, or its battery has simply run out, it may not work. To check the condition of the battery, just press the button and watch the indicator light glow.
- Car battery discharge. If the battery is dead, the electronics are left without power. Accordingly, the alarm system will not respond to commands from the control panel. You can open the car door with a key. But the alarm will go off. To avoid this, open the hood and remove the “-” terminal from the battery.
These and similar problems can be solved in various ways. At the same time, options are available with and without a key fob. Let's look at each effective method.
The car does not start after turning it off: what to do?
It happens that after the car is switched to emergency mode, the operation of the engine or other important components is blocked, which leads to the inability to use the vehicle for its intended purpose. Most often this happens due to a power failure in the alarm unit.
To restore its functionality, follow these steps:
- Disconnect power to the vehicle, locate the main wire and inspect the adjacent wires that connect to it.
- Among them you can see two cut wires connected to the remote control unit - these are exactly what the driver will need.
- To restore the car's functionality, you need to disconnect the car alarm wiring and connect the cut wires.
- After this, you need to return the power supply and wait 10-15 seconds for the system to reboot - everything should work.
In practice, there are cases when the car stops starting after putting it into emergency mode using the Valet button. Such a scenario indicates a serious error in the operation of the system, and it can occur for a variety of reasons - from damaged wires to a software failure. If the driver encounters such a problem, it is recommended to tow the car to a car workshop so that an experienced technician can determine the cause of the breakdown and carry out repairs, since it will be difficult to cope with this task yourself.
Turn off the alarm when there is no key fob
If the “signaling” control panel turns out to be inoperative or useless, to “bypass” it you need to know the location of the Valet button. It switches the alarm to service mode. If the “alarm” is not calmed down, then reliable protection of the machine is maintained.
Where is the Valet button located? It is impossible to answer this question unequivocally. Car manufacturers and technicians specifically install it so that an unknowing user cannot quickly turn off the alarm. This increases the safety of operating the car, because possible theft becomes more difficult. TOP Valet button locations:
- Fuse box.
- Bottom of the dashboard.
- Pedal area.
- Glove compartment area.
- Steering column area, etc.
The guideline when searching for the treasured button is the location of the LED indicator - they are located not far from each other. The location of Valet is indicated in the car’s user manual, in the “signaling” manual. And if you are buying a used car, then check this point with its owner to avoid a grueling search.
Jack button
How to turn your car alarm back on
The option to turn on the alarm directly depends on how you turned it off. If the battery has been de-energized, you need to return the negative terminal back and wait a couple of minutes. If you pulled the wires out of the alarm unit, you need to put them back and wait 20 seconds for the system to boot. If you turned off the car alarm using the Valet button, then you should definitely look at the instructions for the device, where this issue is discussed in detail.
Restoring the functionality of the car alarm using the Valet button is carried out as follows:
- Re-enter the PIN code. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it, press the Valet button on the first number, then turn off the ignition. Repeat the previous step to enter the remaining numbers.
- Pressing the emergency button. Insert the key into the ignition, turn it, and then immediately hold down the button for 5-15 seconds (the duration depends on the brand of car alarm).
- Using the menu. Turn on the engine, and after 10 seconds turn it off. On the control panel, simultaneously hold down the speaker and lock buttons for 5-10 seconds.
If you did everything correctly, a sound and/or light signal is activated (depending on the signaling model).
Disabling the car alarm
Not entirely loyal, but effective, is to cut the cable directed to the external speaker. True, modern protection systems are multi-stage. And this method does not always help. But you can try it. An alternative solution is to find a fuse relay for power supply and control of the “signal”. It can be neutralized with wire cutters or simply pulled out by hand. But relays and fuses are often wireless and “hidden” in the most unexpected places. Therefore, their search may take a couple of hours.
Technical means for unlocking engine start
So, what to do if the alarm blocks the engine from starting, and all of the above methods did not work or were unavailable?
Let us list the technical methods for implementing blocking of the power unit:
- via CAN bus through special programming of the corresponding modes;
- through the starter (disabling the breaker relay included in the retractor relay circuit);
- blocking the operation of the fuel pump;
- through the power supply circuits of the injection system (blocking the operation of the injectors or the injector as a whole).
How to disable Alligator
Another popular auto protection system is “ALLIGATOR D-810”. It can be disabled as follows:
- Enable function No. 9 (see the manual).
- Open the car interior with the key.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Press the Valet button.
- Turn off the ignition.
After performing these actions, the “signaling” will be neutralized, but will not be transferred to service mode. Therefore, it is necessary to deactivate it in accordance with the manual before closing and locking all doors.
What can you advise if there is a problem with the alarm?
Start with something simple - replace the battery in the remote control, or take the second remote control that comes with the kit, and try to use it to unlock the alarm. If there is no response, make sure the car battery is charged. If your car's alarm light is not flashing, this will be the first sign. In such cases, the door can be opened with a key, and if the security siren turns on, you need to press the emergency alarm button, which is installed in the car and is called Valet. But what to do when the control unit is faulty? In this case, we advise you to contact an auto electrician who will either adjust the unit or replace it. Now is the time to talk a little about the features of unlocking alarms from the most famous manufacturers.
How to disable Leopard
The most common versions of auto protection are “LEOPARD LS 90/10 EC” and “LEOPARD LR435”. The algorithms for disabling them are similar to Sherkhan. It is also possible to use a personal code. In this case, you should perform a number of actions:
- Open the car with the key.
- Sit in it.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Press Valet as many times as indicated by the first digit of the code.
- Turn off the ignition.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Press Valet as many times as indicated by the second digit of the code, etc.
The alarm is blocking the engine from starting: what to do?
Engine immobilizer is a feature that is included in the list of available options for almost every anti-theft system.
In this case, the system includes an immobilizer that identifies the owner using a special tag and allows the engine to start. Engine start blocking can also include conventional car alarms, which have a similar function in their arsenal. According to experts who work with automotive electrical appliances, more than half of all cases of unexpected engine failure are directly related to a malfunction of the car alarm. It should be noted that the complexity of implementing the lock in this case is much simpler compared to complex anti-theft solutions. This greatly increases the chances of removing the engine starting unit yourself in the event of a breakdown or malfunction. Next, we will consider what to do with the driver if the alarm blocks the engine from starting.
Engine blocking with car alarm
When anti-theft systems are used, electrical devices are responsible for preventing the engine from starting. Car immobilizers or car alarms can be faulty and cause constant or intermittent glitches in the process.
It should be added that the severity of the problem will not depend on the specific model or make of the car, but on the complexity of the installed anti-theft security system.
The main sign of problems with the alarm is that the engine does not start or stops immediately after starting. The engine may not respond to remote control or may not start with the key. This means that the system has been partially or completely blocked.
Accidental activation of the engine lock function
First, carefully examine the icons displayed on your alarm clock's keychain. A common reason for blocking is the accidental activation of additional functions. Also pay attention to the LED indicator (if there is one) inside the vehicle, which serves as an alarm status indicator. When the LED flashes, in most cases the anti-theft function of the immobilizer is activated.
If, after turning the key in the lock and turning on the ignition, you notice a frequent flashing of the warning light (for example, the StarLine car alarm) before starting the engine, and an icon with the inscription “immo” is displayed on the remote control. ":
- One way to solve the problem is to remove the key from the lock, after which you just need to press the central door unlock button on the remote control.
- You can also get out of the car, turn on the alarm, then disarm the car and start the engine.
In other words, make sure that the alarm operates in the normal mode that is familiar to the owner. Up to 30% of cases where the engine is blocked from starting by the security alarm system occurs as a result of accidental changes in program settings. The driver's task is to disable all unnecessary functions in the settings.
Using the example of the StarLine security alarm system, it can be seen that this system has the ability to “two-step” unlocking. The function may be activated accidentally and a separate icon will light up on the remote control screen. To turn off, hold down button 3. The remote control will beep twice, then press button 3 again. Then press button 1 for a few seconds and turn off the alarm;
Disabling locks using the service button in the cabin
If there are no signs of unintentional engine starting, you can try to unlock the engine in service mode. This mode is called Valet and is used to put the system into service mode. To activate it, insert the key into the ignition, turn the ignition on, and then turn it off.
Then press and hold the service mode button for about 10-20 seconds. The result will be signaled by a special short signal, after which the signal lamp (indicator, LED) will light continuously. This method means that all safety features are disabled, which may also mean the engine lock is removed. We add that after eliminating the defect, it is necessary to re-enable the alarm functions.
In some cases, it also helps to turn off the alarm using a hidden button inside the car. This button must also be held for 10 to 20 seconds, after which the alarm status LED will turn on and then go off. After the light goes out, you can try to start the engine.
Independent troubleshooting of alarm systems
- Troubleshooting and unlocking the engine yourself The alarm can only sound if a blown fuse is detected. This problem often causes the alarm system to malfunction. The fuses should be checked and, if a problem is found, replace the blown fuse with a new one of known quality.
- A malfunction of the security alarm system may also be due to insufficient battery charge or loose terminals on the battery terminals. In this case, the battery is still able to operate the starter, but the engine lock may operate and prevent the engine from starting.
A dead battery can activate a safety feature that prevents the engine from starting due to a power failure or voltage drop in the vehicle's electrical circuit.
- The next step is to check the limit switches (limit switches) that are located under the hood and trunk lid. Moisture or oxidation of the limit switch often causes an incorrect signal to the hazard warning control unit, resulting in the engine locking up. It should be remembered that incorrect installation of alarms and limit switches, as well as improperly flushing the engine, can cause malfunction of electrical devices.
Tips and tricks
If attempts to unlock the engine and start the engine are unsuccessful, there is a high likelihood of serious damage or failure of individual alarm components. This results in accidental operation of engine stop switches that cannot be disabled by standard means. The damaged machine should be taken to a service center as professional intervention will be required to remove the blockage.
This can be done with the help of a tow truck. Another inexpensive option is to call an auto electrician who works on the road. Keep in mind that the final cost of paying for on-site services to unlock the engine, turn off the car alarm, emergency master keys, etc. It often turns out to be less than taking the car to a tow truck service center and paying for repairs at a technical center.
How to disable FALCON TIS-010
To transfer the immobilizer to service mode, you will need a PIN. Algorithm of actions:
- Opening the door with a key.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Pressing Valet three times within 3 seconds from the moment the indicator starts flashing.
After performing these actions, the light turns on for 5 seconds and then blinks slowly. Now you need to count the number of flashes. When it matches the first digit of the PIN, press Valet. Then counts the number of flashes for the second and subsequent code numbers.
Useful tips
When installing a car alarm, you should always take into account the possibility of unusual situations arising.
To minimize the consequences of blocking the power unit, you need to take the following measures:
- Anyone who has the opportunity to use your car should be informed of the codes and algorithm of actions for disarming the car;
- when buying a used car, be sure to ask the seller about the location of the hidden button;
- if you decide to sell the car, similarly provide the buyer with the same information, as well as the address and name of the car service center where the security system was installed;
- Do not trust important information regarding the functioning of the car alarm to your smartphone. It must also be fixed on a solid medium;
- do not check the fuses if the car is located far from a populated area - you risk damaging the security system;
- The first symptom of a dead key fob battery is a decrease in range. Do not wait until the alarm starts to malfunction; replace the battery immediately;
- do not allow moisture to get into the left pillar of the machine (for example, when leaves get into the drainage system) - in this case, there is a high probability that water will penetrate into the alarm head unit and disable it.
If you follow these recommendations, you can avoid unpleasant situations, and if an emergency does occur, you can solve the problem yourself. Otherwise, the only way out is to transport the car to the installer.
How to disable KGB
Algorithm of actions:
- Opening the door with a key.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Press Valet once in the first 10 seconds.
After this, the KGB VS-100 auto-protection will be disabled and the engine can be started. And in the KGB VS-4000 version, there will be an additional pair of sound signals in the car, and four in the key fob.
The main reasons for blocking the engine with an alarm
For those car enthusiasts who are well versed in the electrical part, the task of determining the causes of the failure is greatly simplified.
The most likely causes of security alarm failures are:
- blown fuses that supply power to the car alarm. This check should be performed first;
- Even more often, problems arise due to a discharged battery. Usually the battery still shows signs of life (the sound signal works, the headlights light up), but this is not enough for the normal functioning of the security system. It is not difficult to determine this - if when you turn the key, a characteristic cracking sound is heard, indicating the operation of the solenoid relay, then the reason is in the battery;
- If the car alarm includes a temperature sensor, it also often causes the power unit to block. To check whether it is the culprit of the problem, just disconnect the sensor, which is usually attached under the hood;
- The culprits for incorrect operation of the alarm may be the limit switches on the hood or trunk lid. If they are not insulated sufficiently, they quickly oxidize in damp weather. In any case, this is a manifestation of the unprofessionalism of the installers.
In what cases is it necessary to remove the alarm from a car?
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1. Alarm doesn't work
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If after repair and restoration work the car alarm remains inoperative, it should be completely replaced. Before this, it is necessary to remove all elements and additional electrical wiring of the old security system.
2. The alarm system is malfunctioning.
At the same time, attempts to eliminate the failures were unsuccessful. Such a security system can create problems at the most inopportune moment, and you need to get rid of it.
3. Purchasing an expensive car on the secondary market with an installed car alarm.
You should not waste money on installing a new alarm system, since the operating features of the old one may be known to attackers.
4. Old alarm options do not meet new needs
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One of the most common cases of replacing a security device.
5. Moral and technical wear and tear of car alarms.
Even the appearance of an old alarm key fob may be a reason to replace it. Any non-standard alarm after 10 years of operation begins to malfunction, loses its consumer properties, and is easily hacked using simple grabbers. The efficiency of its work gradually decreases to zero.
Independent troubleshooting of alarm systems
As mentioned earlier, independent troubleshooting of alarm systems is possible only if you have knowledge related to the basic functioning of automotive electronics. In general, the list of diagnostic work will look like this:
- Finding and checking the functionality of blown fuses. By replacing a known problem element with its working counterpart, you can eliminate the malfunction and get rid of problems associated with engine blocking.
- Checking the battery charge, diagnosing whether the terminals are correctly secured to its contacts.
- Diagnostics of limit switches located under the hood and luggage compartment covers.
All this work can be performed only with the use of specialized tools, as well as with the use of knowledge regarding the rules for installing electrical equipment inside the vehicle.