Sometimes the anti-theft system can trigger without any threat and immobilize the engine. What to do about the problem of the anti-theft system that won’t start?
Anti-theft System Car Won’t Start: The Reasons
The anti-theft system is designed to protect your car from theft and vandalism. Its mechanism involves an electrical circuit that disconnects in case of suspicious activity. It interrupts the electrical supply so that your car won’t start or shuts off shortly after.
So what are the reasons behind this anti-theft system problem? Learn more with the following insights:
- A key fob or transponder key with a dead or weak battery
- Due to incorrect programming, damage, or other issues, the system doesn’t recognize the key fob or transponder key, leading to anti-theft system errors.
- Alarm system that was activated and needs to be deactivated
- Wiring or connection problems that prevent communication between the anti-theft system and the vehicle’s computer
- Failure of the anti-theft module or sensor
- A blown fuse
- Interference from other electronic equipment too close to the car
- Problem with the starter or ignition system
- Inadequate or outdated anti-theft system
- Mechanical issues with the locking mechanism or its associated components
Anti-theft System Car Won’t Start: What to Do?
What should I do when the anti-theft system prevents my car from starting? It’s possible the system triggers the car alarm or prevents the engine from turning over for no apparent reason.
You need to turn it off if it’s not working correctly. The car won’t return to normal operation unless you fix the problem.
How to disengage an anti-theft system? These tips will help you:
Check the Battery
The first thing to check when the car’s anti-theft system won’t start is the car battery. It might be dead or weak and need recharging. In this case, the car system won’t be able to read the security code from the key fob.
Check the battery connections. If they are fine, try jump-starting it. This will likely solve the problem.
Anti-theft System Light On
Apply this trick when you have access to the inside of the car and the “Anti-theft System” light on the dashboard is on.
Insert the key into the ignition slot and turn it slightly to the right. Keep it in this position for 10 minutes or a bit longer. It will likely turn off the light and start the car.
Remember, this is the state where the vehicle is on but the engine is off. All necessary components like the radio and dashboard lights will be powered, allowing you to bypass the anti-theft alarm.
Use the Car Key on the Side Door
Use your car key in the driver’s side door slot and hold it for a few seconds after turning it to unlock the door. This trick sometimes works and allows you to override the factory alarm. It lets the car system detect that you have the original key.
It mainly works on Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW models and is applicable even when the key fob is damaged or has a dead battery.
If you’re experiencing a Honda Accord anti-theft car won’t start problem, the trick requires a slight modification. After inserting the key into the driver’s door lock, turn the key to unlock, lock, and then lock again.
Then, turn it back to the unlock position, and the anti-theft system alarm will likely now be disabled. Let the car run for at least 10 minutes after starting the engine to allow the car to reset the alarm.
Reset the Car Computer
This is another way to fix the anti-theft system that won’t start problem. Disconnect the positive battery terminal for a minute or two.
Reconnect it and make sure the anode and cathode terminals are securely fastened. This will reset the computer system, and your car will likely start. If the trick fails, reset the factory alarm by activating its built-in circuit breaker.
Use the Key Trick with the Steering Wheel
Sometimes the service anti-theft system locks the steering wheel and doesn’t let the key turn inside the ignition. This annoying problem is mainly exclusive to Hondas.
It mostly happens when you move the steering wheel after turning off the car. It locks the steering wheel in that position and doesn’t let you move it the next time you try to start the car.
The wheel is likely locked in one direction. Try moving it in the opposite direction, and it might move. Try pulling the wheel in that direction. At the same time, insert the key into the ignition slot and try to turn it.
If the key is stubborn, pull the wheel as hard as possible and keep trying with the key. At some point, you’ll be able to turn the ignition and start the engine.
Check the Key
The key itself could be the cause of the anti-theft system that won’t start. Keys have a built-in chip that sends a code to the alarm system when you insert it into the ignition.
This chip won’t work if the key is broken or damaged. If one key doesn’t respond, try the other. If nothing happens, take them to the dealer to check if their transmission system is working.
Another trick you can try is using the key to start the engine. If the engine doesn’t respond or stops immediately after starting, leave the key in that position for 10 minutes.
When the security light goes off, turn off the ignition, wait 20 seconds, and then start the engine.
Check with a Code Reader
If you’re still experiencing the car anti-theft lock problem, try checking and reading the car’s code.
A code reader, like a check engine light tool, will inform you why the light is on. It’s possible the receiver isn’t getting a signal from the key or your receiver isn’t receiving any power.
Reading the code won’t tell you the exact part or sensor to replace, but it will put you on the right track for a more appropriate solution after following the instructions without any chance of success.
FAQ on Anti-theft System Car Won’t Start
1. What are the symptoms of a bad anti-theft system?
Starting problems, lack of ignition power, unjustified alarms, and flashing lights are all common warning signs. These issues can occur if a system wasn’t installed by an expert with in-depth knowledge of your car’s electrical system.
2. Will disconnecting the battery reset the anti-theft system?
Resetting the anti-theft system and the car’s computer system requires disconnecting the battery connections for 5 to 10 minutes. While this might help fix issues with your anti-theft system, its operation isn’t guaranteed if there are additional problems.
3. How to perform a GMC anti-theft system reset?
Follow the steps below as a reference for resetting the anti-theft system on your GMC vehicle.
- Use the GM key or keyless remote to unlock the door, turn on the ignition
- Exit the car and leave the car door open
- For a typical key, wait for the security light to stop flashing
- For the keyless remote, after closing the door, press the lock button on the key. This also activates the anti-theft alarm system.
- The anti-theft system will be activated if you don’t open the doors or click the keyless remote unlock button for 10 seconds.
These are the most popular ways to fix the problem of the anti-theft system that won’t start. Most cars are likely to respond to at least one of these tricks.