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If you drive a car, there is a good chance you have an anti-theft security system. This system will prevent someone from stealing your car. But if you make a mistake, it may cost you to reset the anti-theft security system. But how much does it cost?
Well, it is really hard to say for sure, as pricing depends on several factors. You should always get at least three quotes from different companies to reset the anti-theft system or have it installed for the first time.
Resetting the anti-theft system in a dealership
Anti-theft system reprogramming can only be done at a dealership by a technician using a factory scan tool or an authorized locksmith who deals with computer keys. Typically, these services cost anywhere from $75 to $150, depending on how long it takes. Some anti-theft reprogramming procedures can take upwards of 30 minutes. These time delays are built into the procedure to discourage anyone from using a factory scan tool to access a car illegally.
Using your key
The method above is only necessary if your car goes into anti-theft mode because you’ve lost your key. However, if you just want to reset your anti-theft system and still have your key, it’s pretty simple.
Exit the car with all the windows rolled up and all doors closed. Also, close the trunk, front hood, and rear hatch. Lock the car using the driver’s side lock and walk at least ten feet away from the car. Wait for about 15 minutes and then unlock the car.
How do I get my car out of anti-theft mode?
If your car accidentally enters into anti-theft mode, the anti-theft light will start blinking and probably set off the alarm. However, you can easily get it out as long as you have your key.
All you need to do is physically insert the key on the driver’s door lock regardless of whether your car has a keyless entry system. Turn the key to unlock the door, but don’t remove it. Hold it in that position for about 30 seconds.
Leave the key in that position for about 15 minutes and recheck the anti-theft light. If it’s no longer blinking, turn the key to the off position and leave it to settle for a minute or two. This gives the system time to reset your car. Otherwise, you won’t be able to start it.
How do I permanently disable the anti-theft system?
To permanently disable the anti-theft system, the car owner must press the unlock button on the remote key. Therefore, it’s suggested to use the key to unlock the door, then change the ignition to the “on” position.
What triggers the theft-deterrent system?
The theft-deterrent system might go off due to:
l Key learning ( when it detects a copy of the key.)
l Charging alarm ( for electric vehicles only.)
l Forced entry alarm (on the door, hood, or trunk.)
What activates anti-theft in a car?
Your car’s anti-theft system might activate if your key fob battery is low or dead and doesn’t disable the system. Ensure that the battery is correctly installed in your key fob. If it’s correctly installed, replace it with a fresh battery and retry.
Does disconnecting the battery reset anti-theft?
If your car’s anti-theft system goes off and you can’t get it to stop, you can go under the hood and disconnect the battery. By unplugging the battery for a few minutes, you will also reset the computer. All you need to do is disconnect both terminals and wait.
How do I know my car is in anti-theft mode?
If the security or anti-theft light is flashing when you try to start your car, and the engine does not crank or start, you have an anti-theft problem.
The system might not recognize your key or keyless entry signal. There might also be a problem with the wiring, anti-theft module, or keyless entry.
Is the keyless entry system vulnerable to hacking?
Unknown to many, thieves have come up with a smart way to track your key fob into sending a signal to your car to unlock it and possibly start the engine.
A keyless entry fob can broadcast its radio signal up to 25 feet from the vehicle. To hack your vehicle, a potential thief places a small fake antenna near you that fools your fob into thinking you are approaching your vehicle. When the antenna receives the signal from your fob, it sends it to a second antenna near the car that unlocks it. The antenna might also start the engine if your car has a push to start feature. As a result, if your car has a conventional key-start engine, the thief might get access to it but won’t be able to start the car.
Does the anti-theft light drain battery?
The anti-theft light won’t drain your battery. However, if you leave the car alarm to go on for too long, it can drain the battery.
What does a car with a lock symbol mean?
The lock and car symbol and warning light might mean that the anti-theft system has been activated. If the anti-theft system is stopping you from starting your car, you should first try and deactivate the security system.
Where is the anti-theft fuse located?
The fuse is located on the dashboard by the driver’s door, just in front of your left knee. If you don’t find it there, you can check the fusebox under the hood by the driver’s side.
What does the orange light with an exclamation point in a car mean?
The dashboard light looks like a tire with an exclamation point and might mean that the tire pressure in at least one of your tires is low. You’ll need to check your air pressure immediately.
Wrapping up
Most thieves are simply opportunists looking to steal a visibly unlocked car. So, the good news for consumers today is that cars are safer in many ways than ever before.
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