Many people who buy cars without alarm systems have them installed.
That makes sense, especially in urban areas where cars are regularly stolen. But if you lose the device (FOB) that controls the alarm and don?t keep the paperwork for the system, you could have some real headaches.
Car alarm systems and companies change frequently. That means that if you lose the key fob that controls the system, it could prevent you from operating the car or getting it fixed quickly.
“We had a lady who had her car towed to one of our approved auto repair shops because she couldn?t get the car to start,” said Ed Kriston, approved automotive repair specialist, of the Towson office of AAA-Mid Atlantic, headquartered in Wilmington, Del. “It turned out she had a car with an after-market alarm and did not have the FOB to operate it anymore.”
While there are no special malfunctions or concerns with keyless entry systems, per se, alarm systems can disable the starting system ? preventing owners from starting their cars. Most systems allow you to unlock the car with the key and turn it off when the ignition is turned on.
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Tips and advance from Ed Kriston and his AAA colleague Jeffrey Boone about alarm systems
» Remember that some alarm systems can disable a car?s ignition. If you have trouble starting your car, be sure to check thealarm system instructions.
» Double check alarm systems? manufacturers before you commit. Some manufacturers go out of business almost as quickly as they begin. Be sure to keep all relevant paperwork about the system so that you can have the system serviced.
» If you do lose the fob you have two choices: have the alarm system completely removed or see if the system is re-programmable. Many systems can not be re-programmed.
» Some alarm fobs can be replaced but the costs can be steep ? anywhere from $65 to several hundred dollars. Again, having the paperwork for the system can make all the difference.
For more information on this and other car safety measures, visit aaa.com
