![]() In extreme cases, AA patrols have towed cars away from interference, so the remote can work.Ĭars with remote central locking should have a bypass system using the normal metal key to unlock the doors without setting the alarm off. If you suspect radio interference try using the remote control close to your vehicle. Modern cars are much less likely to suffer from radio interference but the problem remains for older cars, particularly those built before 1995.Ĭheck that the battery in the key isn't flat. Interference can occur and in the worst cases the car can't be unlocked. The operating frequency (418Mhz or 433.92Mhz) is close to those used by MoD communication, radio amateurs and other common applications. Some use infrared but most use a radio transmitter to send a coded signal to a receiver on the car. This is very convenient, but not without its problems. Virtually all new cars are supplied with a remote control to unlock the doors and turn off the alarm. The key might be even more expensive to replace if it includes a remote control for operating central locking and the alarm. Time and cost vary from manufacturer to manufacturer – expect to pay around £100 and wait up to three days for a replacement key. They offer improved security but they're even more expensive to replace if lost. These should be virtually impossible to copy. Keys with 'rolling codes', which means the transponder code changes every time the key is used, were introduced from 1999 and are now very common. Very early transponders used 'fixed codes' – the key sends the same coded signal every time it's used. Make sure you get all the keys including a master key if one was supplied when new. If you're buying a used car, check the handbook. They now hold car-specific security information in a central database, which the dealer uses when reprogramming the car and a replacement key. You may have to replace the complete engine management system costing more than £1,000.Ĭar manufacturers have virtually stopped using master keys. Unfortunately, if you damage or lose the master key it could cost hundreds of pounds to replace. The dealer uses the master key to programme a new or replacement key for the car. Many early cars were supplied with a 'master key' (often red), which was not intended for normal use. The dealer will have to reprogramme the immobiliser's control unit to recognise the new key code. You will need to return to the dealer if you wish to replace your key. If the transponder chip is broken or missing, the engine won't start. The chip is passive, so it doesn't need a battery – the code is read when you turn the key in the ignition. These keys are secure but are also expensive and time-consuming to replace if lost or broken.Įlectronic, coded transponder chips embedded in the plastic body of the key were introduced from 1995. Most modern car keys are three keys in one.Ī mechanical key to release the steering lockĪ coded 'electronic transponder chip' read by the car when the key is inserted in the ignitionĪ remote control to unlock doors and turn off the alarm Cars still disappear from drives, filling stations and car parks while the owner is distracted ![]() Never, ever, leave your car unattended with the keys in it. Park in public, well-lit car parks particularly where there is good security – look for the Park Mark signĬarry your car keys in a secure place about your person rather than in a handbag which can easily be taken Keep car keys in a secure place – not on the hall table or hanging from a convenient hook by the doorĮnsure that ground floor doors and windows are locked and bolted at nightĭon't leave spare keys in the house if you are going away without your carĬonsider improving car security – an 'after-theft system for Vehicle Recovery'(Thatcham Category 5 tracking device) may bring an insurance discount as well as peace of mind Where possible, keep your car in a locked garage (this may bring car insurance discounts, too) Keys stolen by way of threats, muggings or carjackings Keys quietly picked out of unwatched bags or pockets Keys stolen from workplaces, gym lockers and changing rooms Three cars stolen out of a locked garage following burglary of all the family's keys, while they were on holiday ![]() Homes comprehensively burgled and the family car used as a getaway vehicle Keys 'fished' through the letter box or through open window fanlights While owners have been in the garden or have 'popped out for five minutes' Recent claims at AA Insurance have included keys stolen: Keys are the weakest link in the car security chain and you should treat them as cash – you wouldn't leave £10,000 or more in banknotes lying around would you?Įvery day at least 53 householders in England and Wales find that their car has disappeared following burglary of their home to obtain the keys.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |