The reason is banal – a dead battery, damaged key fob or strong radio interference. But few people know that in most modern cars there is a hidden “saving” function – Valet mode, which can help in just such cases. The experts of the “autopilot” edition remind us about it.
What this mode is and when it is needed
The name “Valet” (from English – “valet”) did not appear by chance. This mode was developed for situations when the owner transfers the car to the employees of service station, car wash or valet. Having activated Valet, the owner temporarily switches off the main security sensors – in particular, shock and volume – but the central lock continues to work. Thus, an unauthorised person can move the car without having full access to the alarm system.
However, the true value of this feature is revealed in emergency situations. If the key fob is broken or stops responding, Valet mode will allow you to switch off the siren, start the engine and quietly move on without a tow truck or the help of a master. It’s a kind of “backdoor” to access the car’s security system.
A secret button can save the driver / Photo by Seniv Petro
Where to look for the “secret” button
Manufacturers deliberately hide the Valet button in inconspicuous places to make life difficult for intruders. It is usually located:
- under the dashboard at the steering wheel;
- in the fuse box;
- in the glove compartment or on the glove box wall;
- behind a decorative plug on the centre console.
There are two options for activation. The simplest is to press and hold the button after switching on the ignition. Some systems use a PIN code: you need to perform a certain sequence of actions, for example, press the button several times, switch the ignition off and on. Usually the standard code (11 or 1234) is specified in the manual. If there is no documentation, it is worth contacting the service where the alarm system was installed.
It is better to know in advance than to regret later
Do not put off checking this function “for later”. Find the Valet button in your car, find out or change the PIN-code and remember the order of activation. This is a small thing that can save you a lot of nerves, time and money at the right moment. After all, it is always easier to manage the situation than to stand helplessly near a car that does not respond because of a dead battery.
Earlier we told you why in Japan traffic lights are blue instead of green. We would also like to remind you that recently in Ukraine the green colour of traffic lights was replaced by emerald.