REMOTE STARTER & ALARM TROUBLESHOOTING BLOG NOW w/NEW PRODUCT UPDATES & INFORMATION!
REPORT YOUR REMOTE STARTER or ALARM PROBLEMS HERE!
Read about common and not so common problems found with car alarms, remote starters and keyless entry systems.
Having a problem with a remote starter installation? Purchased a vehicle with an existing system and having some problems with it? Need a little direction or advice? Report your situation to us and we will be happy to try to help! With 30 years of installing car alarms and remote starter systems, there's a good chance we have seen the same problem and can provide some recommendations and/or the fix you're looking for.
"I have an old Code Alarm Elite 1100 system installed in my car, can I still get the same complete system to replace it?"
ANSWER: Unfortunately no, that system hasn't been manufactured for over at least 17 years. The only part that is still available is the remote controls for the system which are the CRCX3 remotes. Click here for replacement remotes: http://bit.ly/2N2Ve3s
"Hello, I have a question with programming my prestige remote. I have a 5bcr14sp remote and had to order a replacement. I didn't find your site until after I ordered it. Thanks for the help in advance."
ANSWER: Turn ignition ON, press & release the button on the system's antenna 3X (the system will sound) then press the LOCK button on the remote (the system will sound again), then turn the ignition off. Done.
"My vehicle will remote start fine but then it immediately shuts down exactly like as if someone stepped on the brake pedal although no ones in the vehicle. What could cause this?"
ANSWER: The two most common problems that can cause this situation is #1 (which is the most common) Somehow the remote starter's bypass interface kit lost it's programming and will need to be reset and reprogrammed to the vehicle (how this is done depends on the model of bypass/interface kit the installer used when he installed the system) or #2 the remote starter system's "tachometer input signal" need to be reprogrammed to the remote starter system (this procedure also depends on the brand and model of remote starter system).
HOW TO CONTACT THE CODE ALARM COMPANY AS A CONSUMER:
We receive continuous calls from vehicle owners which either had a Code Alarm system installed into their vehicle several years ago and now the company that installed it are either out-of-business or no longer sell & service Code Alarm systems, or purchased a vehicle with the system already installed, and are now either having issues with the system after the vehicle was serviced or looking for general information about the system. To contact the Code Alarm company to either answer questions about a current system or to locate a service facility in your area call: 1-800-421-3209 M-F 9am-5pm ET.
HOW TO CHANGE VOXX SERIES SYSTEMS ENGINE DETECTION MODE:
Read each step before performing to familiar yourself with the procedure. Each step has to be done within 5 seconds of the next step:
Turn the ignition ON (DO NOT start the vehicle): Press & release the systems programming button on the antenna 3X:
The system will flash the vehicle’s dash lights and beep the vehicle’s horn 1X:
After this is seen/heard, turn the ignition OFF then ON again: The system will sound 1 long and 2 short pulses:
After this is seen/heard, turn the ignition OFF then ON once more: The system will sound 1 long and 3 short pulses:
Next,leaving the ignition ON, slowly press and release the button on the antenna 5X in a row: The LED on the antenna will flash in a 5 flash/pause/5 flash pattern indicating you are in the ENGINE DETECTION MODE:
To change the setting, press and release the LOCK button on one of the systems remotes (or the one button on 1-button remotes) until the system beeps/flashes the same number of times as the desired setting below:
1 BEEP/FLASH = TACHOMETER INPUT (Must program tach signal after setting change)
2 BEEPS/FLASH = TACHLESS (Must start the vehicle 8X letting the vehicle rung for at least 10 secs. each time after setting change)
3 BEEPS/FLASH = DATA
4 BEEPS/FLASH = HYBRID
Once the desired setting is chosen, turn the ignition OFF, wait, the system will sound with a long pulse. Setting change is complete.
Prestige "Z" & APSRS Series Remote Start Run Time Change
How to turn Up or Down your Prestige "Z" or APSRS Series Remote Start Run Time:
Tech Note:You have 5 seconds to perform each step, not all the steps within 5 seconds but each step to the next.
Step 1: Turn the vehicle's ignition ON with a key (do not start the vehicle): Press & release the button on the system's antenna 3X slowly: The system will respond by flashing the dash lights and/or beeping the horn 1X depending on the model of system: After this is seen/heard:
Step 2: Turn the ignition OFF then ON again: The system will respond with 1 long pulse and 2 short pulses and/or 2 flashes: After this is seen/heard:
Step 3: Turn the ignition OFF then ON again: The system will respond with 1 long pulse and 3 short pulses and/or 3 flashes: After this is seen/heard:
Step 4: Next (leaving the ignition ON) Press & release the button on the system's antenna 3X slowly: The system will respond by flashing the LED built into the systems antenna in a 3 flash/pause/3 flash pattern indicating you are now in the "remote start run time adjustment mode":
Step 5: Now, press & release the LOCK button on the remote (or the 1 button on 1 button remotes) until the system responds with the number of flashes/beeps corresponding with the desired setting below:
How to determine if your vehicle is equipped with a OEM factory installed alarm system:
Step A: Roll down the driver’s door window: OEM alarms are set one of three ways depending on the model of vehicle:
#1 Close all vehicle’s doors and lock the doors using the factory remote or #2 press the power door lock switch in the vehicle while the driver’s door is open then close the door or #3 close the driver’s door and turn the driver’s door key cylinder to the lock position with a key.
Step B: After locking the vehicle's doors using one of the three procedures above, wait at least 1 minute then reach in through the open window and manually open the driver’s door from the inside (some vehicle’s may require pressing the power unlock switch first). If the vehicle is equipped with a factory alarm system the vehicle’s horn will start pulsing all most immediately after the driver’s door is opened.
How to Activate a Code Alarm and Prestige Remote Starter System
To activate the remote starter, slowly press and release the CIRCLE ARROW button 2X (or key icon on some versions) within 3 seconds (if you have problems, try pressing the button 3X, if it activates after 3 presses it means your not pressing the button the 2X in the proper amount of time, either to fast or to slow)
When you enter the vehicle, turn the ignition key to the ON position (Do not crank the vehicle), then when you step on the brake pedal to shift into gear, the remote starter will automatically shut OFF but the vehicle will remain running because you turned the ignition on first...
So, if you step on the brake pedal before you turn the ignition on, the remote starter system will shut down and you will have to restart the vehicle with the key.
Many calls come in regarding problems with programming older Code Alarm and Chapman system remotes. It seems that the either they can get the system into remote programming mode but can't get the system to accept the new remote or can't get the system into remote programming mode at all. Here's a couple of tips that have helped hundreds of customers in the past get their remote programmed:
#1 in the step where it states that after the system responds with 3 pulses/flashes release the programming button and then press the LOCK/ARM button on the remote, instead don't release the programming button after the 3 pulses/flashes are heard and while stile holding the programming button in, press the LOCK/ARM button on the remote and the system will respond with one pulse/flash indicationg the remote has been programmed, then release the programming button and turn the ignition off...
#2 for systems that get no response at all, in the step where it states to press & hold the system's programming button in, instead close the vehicles doors and wait until the interior lights turn off then turn the ignition ON and turn the vehicle's dome light switch ON/OFF 3X (ON - OFF - ON - OFF - ON - OFF), if this is your type of system, your power door locks will cycle up and down 3X and/or flash the dash lights 3X indicationg that your in remote programming mode. Then quickly press the LOCK/ARM button on the new remote and the door locks and dash lights should cycle one more time, indicating that the remote was just programmed successfully. Turn ignition off and test remote.
Buyer Beware Before You Buy!: Not all remote starters offered online are DIY (Do-It-Yourself) systems or can be taken to your local shop for installation
Almost on a daily basis we receive calls for help with several different brands and models of remote starters and alarm system's that were bought online where after they were received the system didn't provide any information other then the basic wiring of the system, no specific information regarding how it's installed in the vehicle they wanted to install the system in or what additional parts may be required.... and with no technical support to call!
Although we try to help these DIY individuals as best we can within a margin of time, this has motivated me to post some "before-you-buy" information insights. After reading and following this information, you will be much more prepared to purchase any system online without worry of any buyer's remorse.
First things first: If your not the car-savvy DIY type and you see a system on the internet that interest you, unless the same company that is offering the system to you will install it for you too, don't buy it! It's that simple.
There are several reasons for this, but I will sum it up for you this way; you don't want to be driving around town walking into automotive accessory shops with the system under your arm trying to find someone to install it. Most won't, and for good reason. And that's another long list why they won't, starting with that they are either just not familiar with the brand of system and don't want to cause any headaches for you or them in case of any technical difficulties during installation or after. Rule #1: Always purchase the same system and the installation from the same facility if your not going to install the system yourself!
Now, you may be the "DIY" type that's more than capable to install a remote car starter into your vehicle, but without the right information this can slow down your installation. Unless you absolutly sure you know you can get the system in without anything other thing than a general installation manual for the system, with nothing about the wiring your vehicle, then go for it!
But, even if are the car-savvy type...wouldn't you like a remote starter system that has all the parts and information that you need to install the system with no headaches?
For example take our Prestige 901Z-VSS, it's the "Vehicle Specific System" version of Prestige's popular APS-901Z. The Prestige APS901Z is their universal line of remote starters that require additional parts, vehicle wiring information and programming to be installed. It's the platform designed for the professional installer that is familiar not only with how the system's wired and programmed but also familiar with the wiring of the vehicle it's going to be installed into.
Additionally you have to consider this; the APS901Z version will have no warranty unless sold and installed by a authorized dealer, or the distributor that the system was originally purchased from, directly offers warranty replacement. Generally a manufacturer does not supply warranty directly to the consumer, the manufacturer supplies warranty service to the distributor of the system. So any defective parts are returned to the provider (a.k.a. "seller"), the distributor warranties the part to the customer, and the distributor returns the defective part to the factory for credit or replacement. This is how it's handled here at MotorCityRemotes...
Code Alarm and Chapman Remote Starter and/or Alarm Systems LED Flashing 2X:
A common occurance caused by accidently pressing a button on the remote while the ignition is on (or a combination of buttons), causing the system to be placed into "Valet" mode. On many older model Code Alarm and Chapman remote starter systems, specifically the Code Alarm CA530 and CA630 models also including the Chapman F50/55 & F60/65 models, if the lock button on the remote is pressed while the vehicle's ignition is on the system will be put in valet mode which will cause the dash mounted LED to begin flashing in a 2 flash/pause/2 flash pattern and at the same time turn off the remote start and/or alarm features of the system. The only functions that will remain is remote keyless entry.
Depending on the version of system, the same procedure that put the system into valet mode is the same procedure to take it out of valet mode to resume the full function and features of the system. There will be 1 of 3 ways that will put the system in and out of valet mode: With the ignition ON (don't start the vehicle) press both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the remote at the same time. If this is the correct procedure for your specific system the LED will stop flashing in the 2 flash pattern. If not, try pressing just the lock button with the ignition on and if this doesn't change the status, simply try pressing just the unlock button on the remote. One of these 3 ways should do it.
Technically, a few situations could cause this problem but below is by far the most common causes:
Even if this situation occurs after the system has been installed in the vehicle for awhile and previously worked fine or if this is happening during a new install test, it is commonly caused by one of the remote starter's ignition activation output wires; On a new install it can be that either a 2nd ignition wire in the vehicle needs to be powered up at the same time as the vehicle's 1st (or main/true ignition) wire or if a 2nd ignition wire was connected to during installation, the output timing of the 2nd ignition wire may not be providing the needed output at the same time as the remote starter's 1st ignition wire. We have even found some vehicle's that required the 2nd ignition output to be turned off during crank/start (basically the same as an accessory output wire but a required connection to start. Most accessory output connections are not required to get the vehicle to remote start, they are only needed for HVAC activation).
Now on a existing installation that was previousely working fine, the output timing would not change, so the first thing to check is the systems ignition outputs, check both for faulty connections to the vehicle's wiring and test the remote starter system's ignition output wires during remote start activation to confirm that the outputs are working properly. Other than this being the cause, we would have to get a little deeper into the situation which will be another post.
Lots of times people have called in saying that their remote starter all the sudden quit working, that it was working just fine yesterday and now all of the sudden all it does is flash the parking lights a number of times when they try to activate the remote starter. The common cause of this is that somehow indirectly the system was put into what is called the "valet" or "service mode" which inhibits the remote starter from being activated from the remote.
Depending on the brand and model of system installed in the vehicle, there are several ways a system can be put into and out of valet mode. In our experience, the same procedure that puts the system into valet mode is exactly the way it is taken out of valet mode. Here is a few of the most common ways we know of:
Version A: There's a small ON/OFF toggle switch mounted underneath the driver's side dash somewhere that if installed to close to the driver's left foot or above the knees it could be accidentally bumped into when exiting the vehicle and switched into the OFF position. This commonly happens during cleaning of the vehicle when panels are wiped down and the switch is accidentally flipped into the opposite position. Additionally, on some systems, this switch may not function without the ignition being ON, so you would have to turn the ignition ON first before flipping the switch.
Version B: On most newer remote starter systems theres an antenna mounted on the upper inside of the windshield, top center, on the glass behind the rear-view mirror, or may be mounted in the upper left corner. On most of these systems you will find a push-button built into it. Commonly a small black or gray round disc that softly clicks when you press it. Now this button only works with the ignition ON, and on many systems as soon as you turn the ignition ON (don't start the vehicle) theres also a LED light built into the antenna and when the system is in valet mode, the LED on the antenna will turn ON solid almost as soon as you turn the ignition ON indicating that the vehicle is in valet/service mode. To turn off valet mode, with the ignition ON, simply press & hold this button in until the LED turns OFF (takes no more then 15 seconds). Then turn OFF the ignition, remove keys and test remote starter activation (never try to activate the remote starter with a key in the ignition).
Version C: Same in/out valet procedure as described in version B, but the button is not built into the antenna but instead mounted separately by itself under the driver's side dash like the toggle switch described in version A.
Version D: Almost the same in/out valet procedure as described in version B except you don'y have to hold the button in, you just press & release it 1X. And the button is built into the system's flashing LED mounted on the front of the driver's side dashboard, facing you, commonly located to the left of the steering column. Some can be found mounted thru the steering column covers on the steering column. You will know if the valet button is built into the LED when you can easily push the LED in and it immediately springs back out when you release the button.
No matter what brand or model of aftermarket remote starter system you have installed in your vehicle there's a 50/50 chance that any service done to your vehicle that required disconnecting the vehicle's battery in doing so will knock the system out of it's pre-programmed state which will inhibit the vehicle from being remote started.
This is a very common occurence and is usually caused not by the remote starter module itself but by the additional component called a bypass interface kit. A bypass interface kit is used in addition to the remote starter's main control module to interface with the vehicle's factory anti-theft system. The bypass interface turns off the vehicle's factory anti-theft system to allow the remote starter's control module to start the vehicle.
When the system was originally installed, the installer programmed the bypass to the vehicle which during the programming procedure the component captures the vehicle's anti-theft code and store's it into it's memory so when the remote starter is activated, the remote starter turns on the bypass interface kit, the bypass interface kit momentarily sends this copy of the anti-theft code to the vehicle's anti-theft circuit and turns it off so the remote starter can crank/start the vehicle. Now when the vehicle's battery is disconnected it's commonplace that this interface will lose this stored code and will need to be reset and reprogrammed to the vehicle.
The main symptom of this problem is when you activate the remote starter, and if you were sitting in the driver's seat during activation, you would see the ignition turn on and the cluster light up but no crank at all (or on some vehicles may crank but not start). Many vehicle's may also show a flashing security light on the dash cluster.
When a remote starter is indicating that this may be the problem, the system's bypass interface kit must be located in the vehicle so that the brand and model of interface kit can be read off of the module in order to find out what that specific model's reset/reprogramming procedure is.
ANSWER: Must have to keys to the vehicle, cannot use the same key twice (cannot use a cloned key either).
Step 1: Unplug everything away from the Flashlogic module. Press & hold in the small black push button on the Flashlogic module, while still holding the programming button in, plug in just the black 4-pin plug. When the LED on the Flashlogic module begins quickly flashing rerelease the button:
Step 2: Plug in the remaining plugs into the Flashlogic module: The LED will begin slowly flashing green. While the LED is flashing green, press & hold the button in again and after the LED turns on solid green and turns off, release the button:
Step 3: Next, take one of the 2 keys and turn the ignition ON (DO NOT start the vehicle): Watch for the LED on the Flashlogic module to turn from red to green, then turn the ignition off and remove key: Within 5 seconds:
Step 4: Quickly place the 2nd key into the ignition and turn the ignition ON (DO NOT start the vehicle): Watch again for the LED on the Flashlogic module to turn from red to green then turn the ignition off: Within another 5 seconds:
Step 5: Press & release the button on the Flashlogic module: within 5 seconds, activate the remote starter system: when the above procedures were done promptly and correctly, the vehicle will remote start and stay running.
If the vehicle does not remote start, press & release the vehicle's brake pedal and start the vehicle with a key. Allow the vehicle to run for at least 10 seconds then turn the ignition OFF and remove keys. Try again from step one. If multiple attempts to reprogramming the Flashlogic module fails contact technical support.
Shopping for a Remote Starter, Keyless Entry or Alarm System for Your Vehicle?
Knowing the industry standard cost (a.k.a. competitive price) of a remote starter, alarm, keyless entry or smartphone system installation (parts & labor) for your specific vehicle is a good thing to know before venturing out or making phone calls to the shops in your area. Pricing should vary depending on the brand of system and the year, make and model of vehicle (within our company anyway's). For example, a system with the exact same features being installed into let's say a 2014 Ford F-150 w/standard keys should not cost as much as the same system being installed in a 2019 Dodge RAM with push-to-start ignition. To be fair, if labor varies shouldn't price?
Just remember the old adage, "you get what you pay for" because it doesn't apply any stronger to when shopping for automotive aftermarket electronics. That $99.00 remote starter posted in the weekend paper most of the time is just to get you in the door (our company could not install any remote starter system we carry into any vehicle for $99.00!). And that $59.95 DIY system on Ebay isn't going to get you much closer to remote starting your vehicle either. Go luck.
Which brings me to the #1 advice we provide to call-ins and emails regarding our DIY remote starter systems; if your not going to install the system yourself, don't buy our system, always, always purchase the parts and installation from the same facility!! Otherwise, you'll probably end up driving around with our system under your arm (or that system you bought off of Ebay or Amazon) endlessly trying to find someone to install it! Not much of the car-savvy DIY'er? Then return that system you bought on the internet and go straight to your local automotive accessories shop and have the shop provide the parts and labor!
Anyway's, if you would like a solid foundation about the parts and the labor involved, know in advance if your getting a fair price before inquiring to any shop or some recommendations pertaining to warranty and the leading brands and models of systems you may want to keep in mind and look into, click HERE for more information.
ANSWER: If you have an existing remote (a.k.a. "transmitter" or "FOB") flip the remote over, there should be an FCC ID on the back. Using the FCC ID on the back of the remote and the amount of buttons on the front of the remote along with the brand of system, you should easily be able to locate the remote you need online by typing this information into any search engine. For example, "Code Alarm 2-Button Remote FCC ID: GOH-MM6-101890". Now if you don't have a remote to your system you'll have to search using the system's brand name and the model number of the system, for example, "Code Alarm CA-4054".
Now if you don't know the model number (don't have the owner's/operator's manual) someone is going to have to drop the dash panel down that's across from your knee's when your sitting in the driver's seat and locate the system's main control module. Most aftermarket systems will be easily found because it's usually held up with a few nylon zip-ties against some factory wiring (you'll be able to tell that it was not factory installed). One the module is located the model number is commonly located right on the top of the module.
Buying a new replacement remote for your remote starter, alarm or keyless entry system that you have on your vehicle can seem like an easy task when all you have to do is Google the FCC ID on the back of your remote, there's plenty of "Joe's" out there ready to provide. But you have to be careful. We literally get call's everyday from people that purchased a replacement remote everywhere from Ebay to Amazon to even... Kmart? (with lot's of reputable and not so reputable website's in between) and they are looking for help with programming their remote or even need to know how it work's, because none of the places they bought the remote from supplied remote programming instructions or even a phone number where they can get some help!...and the ones that did supply a number, all they could do is provide or repeat the programming procedure you just read off the programming instructions! Most have no hands-on experience or knowledge of the system that's installed in your vehicle...
Shopping on Ebay, Amazon or any other online provider for general consumer products like books, movies, music, shoe's, appliances, TV's etc, etc. is great, but there are some things that just shouldn't be bought from anywhere they can be located. And some of those things are most products that require application procedures to work and could require technical support...
And replacement automotive remotes are a #1 prime example. The tips to keep in mind when shopping online for a new replacement remote are "who is offering the replacement?", "are they directly experienced with the product?", "are they directly associated with the factory (authorized dealer) or a 3rd party?" or do they sell everything under the sun?", "is there a tech support number provided I can call if I need help?", "can I call-in to place an order over the phone or ask some questions?".
Following and keeping the above 5 basic tips in mind will definitely point you in the right and confidant direction for shopping online for a replacement remote.
MotorCityRemotes has been providing technical support, replacement remotes, remote starter and vehicle security systems online for over 17 years and has been in the automotive aftermarket electronics industry for over 30 years. If you have any additional questions and/or need help locating the proper remote for your vehicle give us a call at 1-866-244-8004. Even if we don't provide the remote you need we will be more then happy to help you with finding the one you need.
Programming a new remote to a Prestige brand remote starter and/or alarm system is basically a DIY situation. You normally don't have to take the vehicle in to have someone do it for you. As long as you know where the system's valet/programming/override button is, your good to go. Now, on Prestige systems with a remote start feature the programming button is commonly built into the system's antenna that's mounted on the windshield either behind the rear-view mirror or in the upper left corner. On systems without remote start, this button will be mounted under the driver's dash somewhere (it's the installer's preference where exactly he puts it);
Once you locate your system's programming button simply turn ON the vehicle's ignition (do not start the vehicle), and press & release the button 3X: Almost immediately the system will sound indicating that the system is now in remote programming mode: Now just press the lock button on the remote (or the one button on one button remotes) and the system will immediately sound again in response indicating that you successfully programmed the remote. Within 10 seconds, press the same button on any additional remotes. When finished simple turn off the ignition and remove keys and test your remote.
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