Expert: INSTALLSUPPORT - 11/22/2009

Question
QUESTION: I just bought a 2002 (built in May, 2001) Explorer XLT from a used car only dealer. They put in a KARR brand alarm and wanted $350 to "enable" it and two remotes. I said no. They left the control module in the system and if I unplug it, the car doesn't start.

I have the OEM keyless entry feature and it works just fine. The encoded key feature works as well. When I unlock the door, the interior lights go on as well as the down pointing ones in the mirrors.

The owner's manual says that the lights should flash but they don't. The horn does beep when I lock it. I have read on the Internet that the difference between the keyless entry and the perimeter alarm is programming.

I am confident that the car will not be driven away if broken into but I would like the confidence of a shock and door alarm which might keep things from going that far. I want to help protect what is in the car.

With this information, I would like to find out a couple of things.

Is there a way to upgrade the OEM keyless to perimeter alarm?

Should the lights flash when the door is locked? (I noted the date of manufacture because there is a change of security box late in the year).

Are there aftermarket alarm systems that would integrate with the OEM keyless entry and use the buttons for the rear glass window?

Thanks for providing the service.

ANSWER: Please go to my forum at www.INSTALLSUPPORT.com
and in the search bar there,
type in the manufacturer of the alarm.
I believe you will find an older thread on
where to get more on this issue.

You can also try Robert in my forum:
INSTALLSUPPORT.COM

If anyone can guide you to the this info,
he's your man.

Good luck.

ALARMTEK

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I am not sure you understood the question. I feel that way because I got a response that told me to look up the manufacturer of my alarm system.

The brand name of the one that was left in the car is "KARR" and is a cheap alarm that used car dealers try to sell to make a big profit.  I don't want that alarm anyway and is inactive.

The one that I was asking about is the OEM system. OEM means original equipment manufacturer.

I was asking if the only difference between the OEM anti theft device, which is the encoded key and the addition of the perimeter alarm is in the programming.

From what I found on the Internet is that if one had the correct programming device (maybe a Ford dealer) would that be what it takes to get the full alarm function.

Also, I mentioned that the parking lights should flash when I  use the keyless entry. The Ford owners manual states that these lights should flash. Right now, when I use the remote to unlock the doors, interior lights and lights facing down from the outside mirrors light. When I lock the doors with the remote, the horn sounds the second time I press the lock button.

My actual experience is that the parking lights don't flash.

My last question was not brand specific. I am considering getting an aftermarket alarm system if I cannot reprogram the system as mentioned before. I am willing to pay for the upgrade as I would prefer a Ford OEM alarm to an aftermarket.

But if I would have to go to another brand of alarm, are there any brands that would be able to use the functionality of the Ford branded OEM remotes that I had to buy after I bought the used car?

I hope this helps to explain my question better.

Thank you.

Answer
ok on the Karr,
Please go direct for the answers you need.
(1-800-960-KARR (5277)) or
try www.KARRSECURITY.com
to locate they're site, and write to a representitive who
should be able to provide you with all
the information you need.

As far as OEM in this truck there are 2 seperate system.
The FORD PATS system which would need a bypass kit (SEE PKFORD
AT FORDPATS.com) and it also ha a noise generating, headlight flashing
deterrent which can be circumvented (www.wirewerx.com)

But it sounds like the KARR needs to be reomoved or you need
better info on how to use it etc... I would start by calling
them for clarity on the alarm.

A.