universal remote problem?

[jwstockwell]

Goodmorning ToyotaNation!

Just bought a 2001 LE. Got a regular key, valet key and a 'universal remote' (not the Toyota remote).

Seems that if I arm it with the remote ( either lock or unlock with the 'universal remote') then I CANNOT do anything with the car unless I open it (or disarm) with the remote. i.e. One kid comes home and locks the car with the remote, next morning other kid who has only the key can't do a thing except wake up the neighbors?!?!

Not a big deal if if this is the case, but I have limtd experience with remotes so I wanted to ask the question before I threw the remote away.

TIA
JIM

[fishexpo101]

That is pretty much standard fare when it comes to aftermarket alarms. If the car was armed with the remote, it must be disarmed with the remote.

Without knowing what alarm manufacturer made that aftermarket alarm and how it is was wired to the car (ie., if they had a key disable - allow you to disarm without the remote) - only thing you can do is always lock/unlock it the key or arm/disarm with the remote.

Also don't toss the remote - unless you plan on completely removing the "brains" and the associated wiring. If the battery dies in the car, you generally cannot reset the "brain" without the remote.

[jwstockwell]

Thanks -