Q: My car alarm does not work, the remote won't turn the alarm off

asked by on October 06, 2016

My car remote won't activate or deactivate my car alarm, I have to manually open the car with the key. The thing is my car wont turn on unless I unlock it with the remote, when I do press the button nothing seems to work, I have changed the battery on the remote already. Need help urgently please

My car has an automatic transmission.

Hi, thanks for writing in. This could be one of two issues: a weak battery in your key fob or a faulty key fob as a whole. I would recommend changing the battery in the fob and see if the alarm function works properly. You can find key fob batteries at your local auto parts store. If this is not the issue, I would order a new remote. Another common issue I have found is that when a key fob gets wet, over time the internals will corrode. Sometimes you can take apart your key fob and remove the corrosion with a small wire brush.

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

What does the Brake light mean on the dash?
There are quite a few important lights on the dash of your car, all of which are designed to provide you with vital information about vehicle systems and their operation. The Brake light on the dash should come on briefly...
Loud noise at the front end
Without being able to hear the noise, it will be hard to make an accurate recommendation. If the noise is a rotational noise that changes intensity based on road speed then looking at tire wear patterns such as a cupping...
Car pulls to the right after tire rotation
Hello. On your 2002 Mercedes Benz SLK320, all of the tires have to have the same tread design an the same amount of tread. Any variations will cause the computer to not read the sensors correctly which will cause these...
07 nitro overheating on me... water pump? thermostat? radiator cap? best way to diagnose
Hello. There can be a few possibilities that can cause the overheating condition. Have the radiator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/radiator-replacement) and pressure cap tested (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/pressure-test-radiator-cap) to make they hold pressure. Look for leaks at the water pump. The pump will show leak coming...
The mechanics is saying to change the Brake pads and engine mount replacement cost $550. is this worth to repair the car or sell
You have an "older" car but one with relatively low mileage on the engine. (My car is 26 years old, so don't feel bad). The big issue with "older" cars is corrosion and deterioration of critical rubber products like valve...
My car has started heating up, reached "cooling mode on" with temperatures of 250+, and it sounds like the fan stays on when I turn off car.
This can be caused by a number of things such as low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/thermostat-replacement), or a failing coolant fan switch. As you may know, the coolant fan switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/cooling-fan-relay-replacement) helps to maintain the proper coolant temperature...
i think its the water pump
Be sure the drain plug on the bottom of the radiator is closed and secure. There are a variety of potential leak points in the cooling system. If, using a mirror, you can see coolant leaking out of the water...
Replaced rear seal and now I Only have first gear and my speedamater don't work.
If you replaced the tail shaft seal behind the yoke and had to remove the driveshaft, then it is possible that the transmission vehicle speed sensor VSS is not installed correctly or the harness has been damaged. This will make...
What would cause a rattling/grinding sound from the front side of the motor in my 2005 Chevrolet Impala
Hello, Most of the time this is caused by an issue with one of the accessory pulleys. Most of the time it is the water pump due to an internal bearing failure. I usually pull the belt off and turn...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Subaru Outback
One One of the original sport wagons, the Subaru Outback has enjoyed a high level of popularity over the years, and that doesn’t look like it’s going to change anytime soon. While other manufacturers are trying to create crossover SUVs...
2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Subaru Forester: Which One Should I Buy?
Mid-size sedans are the realm of small families or commuters who want a slightly larger vehicle than a subcompact or compact car, yet don’t want to fully give up their good gas mileage. The sedan offers more comfort and space...
How to Disable a Car Alarm
Car alarms can be shut off by starting the car, unlocking the car door, or disconnecting the battery. Maintain your key fob to cancel future alarms.