The alarm blocks the start of the engine: What shall I do?

Engine start lock is a function, which is in the list of available options of almost any device against the complex. In this case, the system has an immobilizer, which recognizes the owner by a special label and allows you to start the engine. Conventional car alarms can also block the start of the engine, which have a similar function in their arsenal.

We also recommend reading the article about it, why the engine can start badly on hot. In this article you will learn about the main faults, which cause difficulties at the time of starting the heated engine.

According to experts, working with automotive electrical equipment, more than half of all unexpected engine failures are directly related to car alarm malfunctions. Note, that the complexity of the implementation of locks in this case is much easier compared to complex anti-theft solutions. This significantly increases the chances of removing the engine start lock yourself in the event of a breakdown or failure. Next we will consider, what to do to the driver, if the alarm blocks the engine start.

Engine lock with car alarm

If anti-theft systems are installed, the electrical equipment is responsible for blocking the engine start. Immobilizers or car alarms may be defective and cause permanent or isolated failures during operation.

Must be added, that the severity of the problem will not depend on the specific model or brand of car, and the complexity of the installed protective device against the complex.

The main sign of alarm problems is that, that a working engine does not start or stops immediately after starting. The motor may not respond to start from the key fob, and do not start with the key. This means, that the system has performed a partial or complete lock.

Accidental activation of the engine lock function

First of all, carefully examine the displayed icons on the alarm keychain. Accidental activation of additional functions is a common cause of blocking. It is also necessary to monitor the readings of the LED warning light (in the presence of) in the car, which serves as an indicator of the alarm status. The flickering of the LED lamp in most cases indicates this, that the anti-theft function of the immobilizer is activated in the menu.

If after turning the key in the lock and turning on the ignition there are frequent flashes of the signal lamp (on the example of StarLine car alarm) before starting the engine, and on the keychain the icon with the inscription "IMMO" is displayed:

1. one way to solve the problem is to remove the key from the lock, then just press the button to open the central door lock on the keychain.
2. you can also get out of the car, put the alarm in alarm mode, then disarm and start the engine.

In other words, you need to make sure, that the alarm system works in the normal and usual for the owner mode. To 30% Cases of blocking the engine start by an alarm occur due to accidental changes in software settings. The driver's task is to disable all unnecessary functions in the settings.

We also recommend reading the article about it, how to determine the cause of a bad cold start. In this article you will learn about the main faults, which cause difficult start of the power unit on cold.

Let's pay attention to the example of StarLine alarm system, that in this system there is an option of "two-stage" removal of locks. Activation of the function may occur accidentally, a separate icon will light up on the keychain screen. To turn off the keychain, hold the button 3. The keychain will give two peaks, then the button 3 pressed once again. Then the button is clamped for a few seconds 1, then the removal of security functions is carried out;

Disabling the lock with the service button in the cabin

In that case, if there are no signs of unintentional activation of the engine start locks, you can try to unlock the engine using the service mode. This mode is called Valet and is used to switch the system to service mode. To activate, you must insert the key into the ignition, turn on the ignition and then turn it off.

After that, keep the service mode button close 10-20 sec. The result will be a message with a special short signal, then the signal lamp (indicator light, LED) will burn constantly. This method means disabling all security features, which can also mean removing the locks from the engine. Let's add, that after elimination of a problem it is necessary to activate security functions of the alarm system again.

In some cases, it also helps to turn off the alarm with a hidden button in the car. The specified button is also held off 10 to 20 sec, after which the signaling status LED lights up and then goes out. After the light goes out, you can try to start the engine.

Independent alarm troubleshooting

• It is often possible to rectify the fault and remove the engine lock with your own hands, if blown fuses are detected. This problem often leads to alarm failures. Fuses must be checked, in case of detection of a problem element it is necessary to replace the burnt out safety lock on obviously serviceable.
• Alarm problems may also be due to insufficient battery power or poorly secured terminals on the battery contacts. In this case, the battery is still able to sluggishly turn the starter, but the engine lock may already be triggered and further prevent the engine from starting.

When the battery is low, the protection function can be activated, which blocks the start of the engine as a result of power failure or voltage drop in the car's electrical circuit.

• Another step will be to check the limit switches (endpoints), which are under the hood and trunk. Moisture or under the influence of oxidation of the terminal often causes an incorrect signal to the control unit of the alarm, which leads to engine blockage. pay attention, that unprofessional installation of alarms and terminals, as well as improper washing of the engine can lead to malfunctions of electrical equipment.

Tips and tricks

If attempts to remove the engine lock and start the engine were unsuccessful, then there is a high probability of serious failure or failure of individual alarm elements. The result is an arbitrary operation of the engine locks, which standard methods can not be disabled. The defective car must be taken to a service station, since the removal of the lock requires professional intervention.

This delivery can be made by tow truck. Another available way is to call an auto electrician, who works on departure. Note, that the final cost of paying for the service of unlocking the engine, disabling the car alarm, emergency opening of locks, etc.. often turn out to be smaller compared to the delivery of the car to the service center on the tow truck and the payment for repairs in the technical center.