Experiencing issues with your Hornet car remote after a battery change or installing a new one? It’s a common problem, and fortunately, reprogramming your Hornet remote can often be done at home without special tools. This guide will walk you through the steps to get your remote working again, drawing from expert advice in the car security community.
Understanding the Valet Switch and Programming Basics
Before you begin, it’s crucial to locate your Hornet alarm system’s valet switch. This is typically a small black push-button, separate from any flip switches, and is essential for initiating the programming sequence. The valet switch acts as a gateway to access your alarm system’s programming mode.
Step-by-Step Guide to Program Your Hornet Remote
Based on successful methods shared by experienced users, here are two approaches to programming your Hornet car remote. Start with the basic method and proceed to the advanced method if you need to program individual buttons or features.
Method 1: Basic Remote Programming
This method is effective when your remote is partially functional or you’re trying to program a new remote to handle basic lock/unlock functions.
- Open your car door and turn the ignition to the “ON” position. Do not start the engine.
- Locate and press the valet switch. Release it immediately, then press and hold the valet switch down.
- While holding the valet switch, press the “Lock” button on your Hornet remote.
- Release the valet switch and turn the ignition off.
You should hear the alarm system chirp a few times, indicating that it has exited programming mode. Test the “Lock” button on your remote. If successful, it should now lock and unlock your doors.
Method 2: Advanced Programming for Full Functionality
If Method 1 only programs the “Lock” button, or if you have a multi-button remote with features like remote start, you may need to program each button or feature individually. This advanced method uses multiple presses of the valet switch to access different programming menus.
- Open your car door and turn the ignition to the “ON” position. Do not start the engine.
- Locate and press the valet switch rapidly eight times. Then, press and hold the valet switch down on the eighth press.
- Listen for the siren to chirp eight times. This confirms that the system is ready to receive the transmitter’s signal for advanced programming.
- While still holding the valet switch, press the button on your remote you wish to program (e.g., Lock, Unlock, Remote Start, Auxiliary). For basic programming, you can start by pressing the “Lock” button.
- You should hear a confirmation chirp after pressing the remote button.
- Release the valet switch and turn the ignition off.
- Test all the buttons on your remote to ensure they are programmed correctly and control the intended features.
Troubleshooting and Tips
- Multiple Remotes: If you are programming multiple remotes, repeat the button pressing step (step 3 or 4 in each method) for each remote while the system is in programming mode.
- Confirmation Chirps: Pay close attention to the siren chirps. They are your feedback that the system is entering and exiting programming modes and accepting remote signals.
- Valet Switch Location: If you are unsure about the location of your valet switch, consult your Hornet alarm system’s installation manual or contact a professional installer.
- DEI Systems: Hornet is a brand under Directed Electronics, Inc. (DEI). These programming methods are generally applicable to many DEI alarm systems.
By following these steps, you should be able to reprogram your Hornet car remote and regain full control of your vehicle’s security system. If you continue to experience difficulties, it’s recommended to consult a professional car alarm technician to diagnose and resolve any underlying issues.
