Q: Disable or bypass factory security system

asked by on February 09, 2017

We have a factory security system that acts up on us. Sometimes I'd try to unlock the doors after arming the system and it will only unlock one door and I get in, the car won't start. The security system stays armed. I'd like to disable the system so that the car will start. How do I do this?

My car has 150000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Electrical components are not working Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

To temporarily override the system, see these instructions. A permanent bypass requires re-engineering the system because engine immobilizers these days rely on multiple electronic modules and chips, the very removal or modification of any one of which, or reconfiguration, will itself activate the immobilizer. These immobilizer systems are complex and nearly foolproof to all but highly trained electrical engineers and even they will have trouble due to the need for specialized components, programming and so forth. That’s why these systems have been so effective of late in preventing car thefts. Immobilizers are essentially undefeatable unless you want to spend many, many hours poring over circuit schematics to design a unique bypass strategy. The bottom line is, in your circumstances it will be vastly easier, more efficient, and less costly to simply fix the immobilizer system that you already have in place. Indeed, the Factory Service Manual has a diagnostic protocol to accomplish just that. To that end, if you request a system electrical diagnostic a certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do the childproof door locks work?
As a parent, keeping your children safe is priority number one. That applies to when they’re in the car as well. If your child is large enough to reach the door handles from the car seat or booster seat, you...
Factory radiator defect caused transmission fluid to contaminate transmission
Hello! I would suggest to using a radiator that has an abundance of good reviews from other customers. If the radiator is in fact causing the issues you've described there should definitely be other people who have already voiced their...
Electrical turning off.
The symptoms you describe are most commonly caused by the ignition switch loosing contact to one or more contacts in the switch. I would try and wiggle the ignition key to see if the problem comes and goes. This would...
Can I use a jump starter on my Prius?
You can use a booster to jump the small battery on the Prius but it does require specific training to do it correctly. You should either get a Prius service manual or have a Prius trained mechanic show you the...
My car feels as if I am driving it in neutral but I'm not.. my RPM will go up but I cant accel over 20mph. Only happens sometimes
Hi there. This may be a sign of a faulty transmission control solenoid or simply low transmission fluid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service). Modern automatic transmissions use pressurized hydraulic fluid to change gears. Every time a gear change is required, the car's computer activates...
Glow plug doesnt appear on dashboard 2000 VW Golf Diesel
Hello - the failure to get a "glow plug light" upon startup is most likely a fuse or switch issue, failing from repetitive use over time. Check these first. Also possible that one or more of the glow plugs (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/changing-the-glow-plugs-by-steven-d)...
Replaced rt.& Left Rotors and brake pads. Also Rt. hub. the problem is ABS & brake light still come on. Does this have be reset ? 2004 Buick Ranier
Hello - the short answer is "Yes", the ABS problem code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-to-do-when-your-abs-light-comes-on-by-spencer-cates) needs to be cleared with an appropriate Scan/Reset tool. This also begs the question "Was the ABS specific code read when the ABS light first came on, so...
Knocking noise when turning at slow speeds and braking
Faulty outer CV axle joints can make a knocking noise on turning. If the identical noise also occurs in park, it may be that you have multiple sources of the knocking. An option for you is to schedule a front...
My Buick LaCrosse won’t start, the ignition starts but the engine doesn’t run
If the engine turns over rapidly, as usual, but it won't catch and run, there is usually a problem in the fuel or ignition system. There are some basic tests that you can perform to check for spark and fuel...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Nissan Juke
The The 2012 Nissan Juke is part crossover, part sports car, and part radical looking car. It has five doors, folding rear seats, and a rear hatch for easy access to the cargo area. The seats fold flat offering extra...
2012 Nissan Altima vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat: Which One Should I Buy?
Sedans are a special class of vehicle: created to provide a comfortable and often luxurious ride to those who have passed beyond the need to stick to the compact class. These slightly larger vehicles offer options the compacts and subcompacts...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a Hilly Area
Do Do you live in terrain that is hilly? Do your city streets feature plenty of inclines and declines that can be nothing short of treacherous in miserable weather? If so, when it’s time to purchase a car you’re looking...