Install a Remote Keyless Entry System in a Car
Today, more automobiles are being sold or upgraded with high-tech components than ever before. Cars are manufactured with everything from CD players to DVD players to factory installed voice-operated cell phones. Forefront among these devices is the popular remote keyless entry system, which allows operators to open car doors or even the car trunk from a distance using a remote control. Here are a few steps to follow when installing a remote keyless entry in your car.
Steps
- Decide what features are needed. Before you investigate further, decide what features will work best for you. Key entry systems can be for the driver's side door only, or they can be for all passenger doors, or even for a car trunk. Make sure you know which system is right for you.
- Research models of entry systems online. Different models will have different features, but be prepared to spend more money on a more popular or praised system. Check different websites and discussion boards to learn about the systems from those currently using them.
- Consult your dealer. If possible, talk to your auto dealer about which brands of systems work better in your particular car. The dealer will also be able to give you information about standard factory keyless entry systems and factory installation.
- If you are mechanically inclined, install the new keyless entry system yourself.
- Read the instructions for your device, as all devices may be slightly different.
- Peel back the inside rear wall of carpet in the trunk. There will be a bundle of wires there that lead to the automatic door locks.
- Unpack the keyless entry device. The actual device will be small with several different colored wires. The red wires will lead to the power source and the others will attach to the automatic door locks. The amount of connections will vary based on which brand of system you purchase.
- Using the velcro adhesive, attach the device to the panel in any free area.
- Connect the power to the trunk lamp. The device needs a constant power source, which can be found in the trunk lamp. Using one of the wiretap connectors, attach the red wire from the keyless entry system to the trunk lamp power wire.
- Consult your car owner's manual. Make sure you know which wires connect to which door locks.
- Connect the device to the automatic door locks. Using the other wiretap connector, connect the device to the wires connected to the desired door locks.
- Using your keyless entry button, test out your new keyless entry system.
Warnings
- Keyless entry systems work only with vehicles already wired with automatic door locks.
Things You'll Need
- 1 keyless entry device
- 1 pack of adhesive backed velcro
- 2 to 5 wire-tap style side by side wire connectors
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