Hi I got a 2005 MCS with the factory alarm. It seems to have active arming meaming I have to press the mini button to arm the alarm. I often forget to arm it leaving the car unprotected. Does the alarm also have a passive mode so it will arm by itself? Also does it have starter kill? The manual that came with the alarm is just a piece of paper with very little info. Thanks in advance.

 

Don't you use the lock button on your key to lock your doors? The factory alarm (I have) is armed upon locking to doors with the center lock button on the key.

So if I got this right (re-reading your meaasge) - you often LEAVE YOUR CAR UNLOCKED??

I under stand that the car can be programmed to re-lock (and arm the alarm) - IF you use the key to unlock the car... but don't open the door... then within 30 seconds it's suppose to automatically re-lock and arm the car.

 

The MINI alarm does not have passive arming - active only (you have to lock it.) If you want passive arming, you'll need to get a different alarm.
I've got a car with a passive alarm (current sensing), and it's a RPA* - always goes off before I can disarm it with the key.

*Raging Pain in the A**

 

I guess I have to remember to lock it by pressing the mini button on the remote all them time. I'm too used to passive alarms which arm and lock the doors 30sec after you exit the vehicle.

How about starter interrupt? Is that a part of the factory mini alarm?

Thanks.

 

starter interrupt - standard on the MINI. Your key has a computer chip in it that the car has to sense before it can be started.

*wOOt* second gear for me baby!

 

I was told about the chip in the key by the sales guy but then how does it start with the plastic valet key? Thanks.

 

Platic "EMERGENCY" key has a chip in it too.

 

yup, the "swimming" key has the chip, but it's water proof so you can take it into the surf.