Who/What/Where might one find a definitive source of information on the Factory Alarm System found in a 1987 S4. The owner's manual is rather thin on information, and after looking through past posts, can't say I really understand how it works (and when it doesn't).

I turn the key (long one), the lights go off, but how do I know if the system has really activated itself? Any visual clues?

Any help appreciated

 

Salut Daniel, try this link : <a href="http://www.clifford.de" target="_blank">www.clifford.de</a> i had question on my alarm system and someone gave it to me in this forum hope it will help you. Do you have the brand name of your alarm ? the model #? the schematic ? the pin out on the alarm control box itself ?

 

Salut Daniel, try this link : <a href="http://www.clifford.de" target="_blank">www.clifford.de</a> i had question on my alarm system and someone gave it to me in this forum hope it will help you. Do you have the brand name of your alarm ? the model #? the schematic ? the pin out on the alarm control box itself ?

 

he said factory alarm. there is no brand or model...

 

The easy test is to lock the car with the windows down, then reach inside and open it. At least that works with the '86.5 car.

Also, you can lock the car with the long key and then unlock it with the short one....... that works too....... don't ask!!

 

Thanks, I'll try the 'self-test' with earplugs tonight.

I've run acros something interesting for those with an '89 and above.

In MY89, according to the service info manual:
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The burglar alarm system has an additional control unit, which is installed in the centre console.

If the tailgate is raised with the burglar alarm activated, a locking movement is not necessary after shutting the tailgate.

Activation takes place automatically about 25 seconds after the interior lights have gone out.

Doors can be locked on the tailgate lock but not unlocked.

Light emitting diodes installed in the catch buttons of doors flash to indicate that the burglar alarm is switched on.

These light emitting diodes go out when unlocking the doors.

Light emitting diodes are acticated without contacts via an induction coil.

Power consumption is &lt;1 mA.
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All this and more can be found in section 9-06 of the Service Information technical Bulletin.

Perhaps the description for the '87 is found in the tech bulletins for previous years. I'll keep digging.