For just over a week my central locking wouldn't work so I had to leave my car unlocked but the car still started. Today I tried to start it and it won't start, I think its the immobiliser that won't allow it to start. If I lock my car I know I won't be able to get it open again as the previous owner must have done something to prevent it from opening by using the key in the locks, it only normally opens electronically. I don't know what to do, how can I start my car? Can I bypass the immobiliser? If so how? Please help.

Jamie, September 2009

Do you have the drivers handbook?
Also, look through any paperwork you got with the car to see if the previous owner has written down the immobiliser by-pass code (4 digits).
If you have the handbook it's easier to take you through some checks.
If the key wont work in any of the locks it's possible the PO has changed the ignition barrel and key.
Do you have any spare keys?
Was there heavy rain or was the car washed just prior to this problem?
Have you put new batteries in the remote?
Check the key is working by pointing it at the lens of a phone camera (camera switched on obviously).
Push the button on the key and you should see a flash on the camera screen from the infra red sender in the key. No need to take a picture.
The key may simply need re-synched.

bored at work, September 2009