Remote-start systems are a great convenience, allowing you to start your car with the press of a button.
However, if your remote start is turning on by itself, it can be both an annoying and potentially dangerous issue.
In this article, we will discuss the various reasons why your remote start might be turning on by itself, as well as what you can do to fix the issue.
Common Cause Why Car Remote Is Turning on by Itself
Worn-Out Battery or Damaged Key Fob
The most common cause of a remote start turning on by itself is a worn-out or damaged key fob.
When a key fob is damaged or worn out, it can cause the signal to be weaker and more easily picked up by the receiver in the car.
This can cause the car to start, even when the key fob isn’t being used. Another possible cause is that the key fob is too close to the car or another electronic device.
This can cause the signal from the key fob to be picked up by the car and cause it to start.
If the battery of the car’s remote starter is failing, it may cause the car to turn on by itself.
The batteries in remote starters typically last for approximately three years. The best thing you can do is to replace your remote battery.
Faulty Wiring
The second most common cause of a remote start turning on by itself is an issue with the wiring in the car.
If the wiring is not properly connected, it can cause the remote starter to malfunction and turn on the car.
This can cause the car to start randomly, even when the key fob isn’t being used. In addition, if the wiring is damaged, it can also lead to other electrical issues in the car.
What to Do with a Faulty Wiring
The first thing to do is to make sure all the connections are secure.
Check the battery and make sure it’s properly in place and that all the wiring is connected properly. If there are any loose wires, you may need to reattach them.
Faulty Receiver
A faulty receiver is one of the potential causes of a car starting by itself.
When the receiver, which is responsible for receiving and interpreting signals from the remote key, is malfunctioning, it can cause the car to start without direct input from the driver.
The main effect of a faulty receiver is a lack of safety.
When a car starts by itself, the driver is not present, so the vehicle can potentially run into objects or injure people who are nearby.
As a result, the driver is at risk of causing significant damage or injury, even if the car is parked and not moving.
Faulty receivers can cause the car to start unexpectedly, leading to a potential collision and further damage to the vehicle.
What to Do with a Faulty Receiver
The first step to addressing a faulty receiver is to identify the issue. If the car is starting without direct input from the driver, then the receiver may be malfunctioning.
If you have a remote key, then try replacing the battery and testing the key to see if it is still able to start the car.
If the car still starts without direct input, then the receiver may be the problem.
The next step is to have the receiver inspected. A certified mechanic can inspect the receiver and diagnose the specific issue.
In some cases, the receiver may need to be replaced. If the receiver is still under warranty, then the manufacturer may be able to replace it for free.
If not, then the cost of a new receiver will need to be considered. Once the receiver is replaced, it is important to test it to ensure that the issue is resolved.
Poor Programming
If the remote starter was programmed incorrectly, it could cause it to randomly turn on. Poor programming of a car remote can be a serious safety hazard.
It could cause the car to start unexpectedly, leading to potential collisions or other serious accidents. Additionally, it could leave the car vulnerable to theft.
What to Do to Fix the Problem
To address this issue, it is important to check the programming of the remote regularly and make sure that it is functioning properly.
This can be fixed by reprogramming the starter to the correct settings.
If the car contains an onboard diagnostics-II (OBD-II) port, a diagnostic scan can be used to detect any existing issues.
If this does not resolve the issue, then further diagnosis is necessary to identify and resolve the issue. It is important to take the car to a professional to have it looked at.
Malfunctioning Security System
If the car has a security system, it could be sending out a false alarm that is triggering the remote starter.
This could be a sign that the security system needs to be serviced or replaced.
Malfunctioning security systems can often trigger unwanted alarms or activate devices unexpectedly, which can be a nuisance and a safety hazard.
If the security system is not functioning properly, it can cause false alarms that disrupt peace or even lead to false accusations of criminal activity.
How to Address the Issue?
If the security system of a car remote malfunctions, the first step is to determine the cause of the malfunction.
Depending on the type of security system, there could be a variety of causes. This can be from technical issues with the remote to a problem with the car’s security system.
It is likely that the battery needs to be replaced, or that the remote has become damaged.
If the remote has become damaged, it is possible to purchase a new one from an electronics store or online.
If the problem is related to the car’s security system, the most likely cause is a malfunctioning sensor or other component.
In this case, it is best to take the car to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
It is also possible to reset the security system using the car’s onboard diagnostics. This requires connecting the car to a laptop and locating the security system settings.
Once the settings are located, they can be reset, which should restore the security system to its original state.
In some cases, it may be necessary to reprogram the car remote. This can be done at a dealership or a qualified auto repair shop.
The technician will need to access the car’s onboard computer, which will then allow them to reprogram the remote.
Finally, if all else fails, it may be necessary to replace the security system altogether.
This should be done by a qualified technician, it’s important to contact the manufacturer to have the issue diagnosed and repaired.
Conclusion
There can be several reasons why your remote start might be turning on by itself.
The most common causes are a worn-out or damaged key fob, an issue with the wiring, a faulty receiver, or a faulty or worn-out battery in the key fob.
If you are experiencing this issue, it is best to consult a qualified technician or a manufacturer to have the issue diagnosed and repaired.
By taking the proper steps to fix the issue, you can ensure that your car is running properly and you’re keeping yourself safe and away from danger.
Kevin has been hanging around cars and automobile magazines since he knew what a car is. He grew up in his father’s 1995 Mercedes E320 Wagon and Volkwagon Phaeton W12 2004. He rides his first car, a manual 1979 Porche 911SC.
Currently, he owns an Acura Integra GS-R. During his childhood, he showed a keen interest in how things actually work and fix them. This passion transforms into his eternal love for cars and bestows him an ideal position in one of the leading automobile companies; whenever he finds time, he takes out his Acura and opts for the longest possible route to find hidden wholesome pleasure in a road trip.
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