How to Troubleshoot Car Alarms

Although a car alarm protects your vehicle against theft, you can run into problems when it malfunctions. Common car alarm issues include the alarm sounding constantly, car won't start or does not arm on its own. You can solve many car alarm problems on your own by performing troubleshooting techniques.

  • Perform a routine check of all systems of your car. Before assuming the alarm is causing the problem, you'll want to make sure it's not an issue with your car. For example, if your car won't start, your starter or battery may have gone bad.

  • Disable the alarm manually. In some cases, you may have to set the alarm to valet mode until you figure out the problem. To do this, put the key into the ignition and then hold down the push key until the light on your switch stays a solid color.

  • Check your sensor. When you have a very sensitive sensor, you may find the car alarm going off constantly. Adjust the setting to fix the problem.

  • Disconnect any other devices found in your car. Sometimes GPS devices, radar detectors and cell phones can cause interference with a car alarm. Try to disconnect these devices to see if it fixes the issue with the car alarm.