Stupid Security System
Stupid Security System
Hey guys,
I have a 03 F150 4x4 that has the factory KARR security system - blue blinking light seems to be the identifying factor from they people I've talked to, in case that helps.
The problem I've had with it since the day I bought it is that occasionally after the truck has been sitting in the sun on real hot days (like 85 or above) with the security system on, when I try to dis-arm it it doesn't respond at all. To the point where I have to just use the key to open the doors which sets the alarm off, then press the button on the back of the blinking blue light which turns the alarm off I guess.
The problem has now gotten a lot worse. I would like to try and fix the problem myself but have no clue what to check for for this. I tried to have the dealer check into it over the years when it was under warranty, but they could never duplicate the problem - of course.
From what I understand these things cannot be easily removed either because of the way that they are integrated into the electrical system of the whole truck or something - just what I was told. But if I was to get an aftermarket would it have to somehow integrate into this KARR garbage one?
Thanks!!
I have a 03 F150 4x4 that has the factory KARR security system - blue blinking light seems to be the identifying factor from they people I've talked to, in case that helps.
The problem I've had with it since the day I bought it is that occasionally after the truck has been sitting in the sun on real hot days (like 85 or above) with the security system on, when I try to dis-arm it it doesn't respond at all. To the point where I have to just use the key to open the doors which sets the alarm off, then press the button on the back of the blinking blue light which turns the alarm off I guess.
The problem has now gotten a lot worse. I would like to try and fix the problem myself but have no clue what to check for for this. I tried to have the dealer check into it over the years when it was under warranty, but they could never duplicate the problem - of course.
From what I understand these things cannot be easily removed either because of the way that they are integrated into the electrical system of the whole truck or something - just what I was told. But if I was to get an aftermarket would it have to somehow integrate into this KARR garbage one?
Thanks!!
Hey badogg, whoever told you that it can't be easily removed hasn't put a lil elbow grease EVER.
A couple questions.. I'm assuming you truck has keyless entry.. but does it have a button on the door? and if the alarm is armed, can you start the vehicle?
Now depending on those answers heres what's up. Dealeships put alarms in trucks so that they can easily un/lock their vehicles they're selling. Now if a truck doesn't have the keyless entry they'll invest a bit and throw an actuator (door lock motor) into the car. so if you take out the system, you wont have a way to use that motor... unless you buy a different alarm or control module.
Also, security systems have a starter kill option that requires the starter wire off the ignition to be cut in half in order to successfully disable the starter. If you remove the system, you will have to reconnect the wire so that you can start your vehicle, and that is pretty much the hardest part.
But if I was you I'd take the truck and get a different alarm installed. The installer SHOULD remove the KARR system to replace it with the new one. Best of luck.
on a side note.. have you replaced the battery on the remote?
A couple questions.. I'm assuming you truck has keyless entry.. but does it have a button on the door? and if the alarm is armed, can you start the vehicle?
Now depending on those answers heres what's up. Dealeships put alarms in trucks so that they can easily un/lock their vehicles they're selling. Now if a truck doesn't have the keyless entry they'll invest a bit and throw an actuator (door lock motor) into the car. so if you take out the system, you wont have a way to use that motor... unless you buy a different alarm or control module.
Also, security systems have a starter kill option that requires the starter wire off the ignition to be cut in half in order to successfully disable the starter. If you remove the system, you will have to reconnect the wire so that you can start your vehicle, and that is pretty much the hardest part.
But if I was you I'd take the truck and get a different alarm installed. The installer SHOULD remove the KARR system to replace it with the new one. Best of luck.
on a side note.. have you replaced the battery on the remote?
Last edited by DRJ; Oct 18, 2008 at 04:14 AM. Reason: add on
If it is a Ford Silver Remote start, you should be able to remove it, that is a splice in system, it is not as integrated as some are making you believe.
If you want to replace it, you can buy a Code Alarm ( the one that OEMs the Ford silver-gold-bronze systems ) from Travis at KCautosound.
The CA-530 is the same replacement system, which he has for 130.00, and the Ford re wire is 25.00. If you trust your PATS interface ( i.e. never had a problem starting ) then you don't need the Transponder module #433.
The instructions you get with the pre wire give vehicle specific wiring steps, which will point where the Ford system is at now.
That is the best option I can think of for replenishment. of the module.
Good luck
If you want to replace it, you can buy a Code Alarm ( the one that OEMs the Ford silver-gold-bronze systems ) from Travis at KCautosound.
The CA-530 is the same replacement system, which he has for 130.00, and the Ford re wire is 25.00. If you trust your PATS interface ( i.e. never had a problem starting ) then you don't need the Transponder module #433.
The instructions you get with the pre wire give vehicle specific wiring steps, which will point where the Ford system is at now.
That is the best option I can think of for replenishment. of the module.
Good luck


