Need Help w/random Alarm
Need Help w/random Alarm
I own a used 2000 nissan xterra SE that has really given me nothing but problems in the few years I've owned it and recently a problem from the past has popped up again. My alarm system which seems to be activated when I lock the car, will sometimes randomly go off without warning. I do not own a keyless entry nor is someone even near my car when this happens, but somehow the alarm still goes off. This is becoming quite the problem because most times it will go off in the late hours of the night sending me into a panic sprint to find my keys. PLEASE HELP
Re: Need Help w/random Alarm (tkivland)
We're having the exact same problem - if anyone can help out would so appreciate it!!
Re: Need Help w/random Alarm (drsokc67)
Welcome to NICO. I hope I can answer your question but it seems like it will involve a bit of work either on your part or by a tech. Here is your list of culprits:
The Smart Entrance Control Unit(SECU). This module controls seatbelt buzzers, interior dome lights, Vehicle security and the remote control locking functions of the Key Fob. This module is located inside the cab on the drivers side kick panel just above the hood release cable. This module does not have a history of failure so this is most likely not your problem.
All entry points have a switch that activates the dome lights. BUT open an entry when the security system is armed and HONK HONK HONK! Wires on these switches can become corroded and cause intermittant contact when you don't want it. The SECU may detect this as an unwanted entry attempt and sound the alarm. You should remove each door jam switch by pulling back the rubber boot and removing the screw that holds it in place in the door jam. Check the wires for corrosion, bad contacts etc. (PS: The wires for these switches is very short and if you unplug the switch you risk having the wire fall back through the hole and you may have to take sections of interior trim off to get it out again.)
You key holes in the front doors also have a switch in them so if a theif rams a pair of scissors or a screw driver in the key hole to force entry the alarm goes off again!
The key switches require you to remove the door panel and the plastic vapour barrier to get at the switch. There are some voltage checks that can be conducted to tell you if the switch is toast. (My money is on one of these door switches being the source of your problem.)
Theres more info below the images......keep going!
Lastly: Under the hood on the drivers side at the radiator support you should have one last switch that detects when the hood is being opened when the system is armed. This is a sealed switch but if you remove it from it's location you should be able to see if a connection wire(s) is damaged.
The Smart Entrance Control Unit(SECU). This module controls seatbelt buzzers, interior dome lights, Vehicle security and the remote control locking functions of the Key Fob. This module is located inside the cab on the drivers side kick panel just above the hood release cable. This module does not have a history of failure so this is most likely not your problem.
All entry points have a switch that activates the dome lights. BUT open an entry when the security system is armed and HONK HONK HONK! Wires on these switches can become corroded and cause intermittant contact when you don't want it. The SECU may detect this as an unwanted entry attempt and sound the alarm. You should remove each door jam switch by pulling back the rubber boot and removing the screw that holds it in place in the door jam. Check the wires for corrosion, bad contacts etc. (PS: The wires for these switches is very short and if you unplug the switch you risk having the wire fall back through the hole and you may have to take sections of interior trim off to get it out again.)
You key holes in the front doors also have a switch in them so if a theif rams a pair of scissors or a screw driver in the key hole to force entry the alarm goes off again!
The key switches require you to remove the door panel and the plastic vapour barrier to get at the switch. There are some voltage checks that can be conducted to tell you if the switch is toast. (My money is on one of these door switches being the source of your problem.)
Theres more info below the images......keep going!
Lastly: Under the hood on the drivers side at the radiator support you should have one last switch that detects when the hood is being opened when the system is armed. This is a sealed switch but if you remove it from it's location you should be able to see if a connection wire(s) is damaged.
Re: Need Help w/random Alarm (Big-Bird)
Wow Thanks a million - I'm now suspecting the hood switch most as the hood is slightly rumpled from an accident