Yes, the dreaded ‘alarm goes wild’ has just happened to my SRT-6. Catching up on the issue here, I see that the consensus is that the alarm module on all models has its own battery, which (understandably) dies after a decade or so. But as it dies, it alarms the car uncontrollably.

The recommended option is to repair or replace the alarm module. But — what if I just remove the module altogether, and don’t replace or repair? Can I still drive the car around, or is the alarm somehow tied into other vital car functions? Has anyone tried this?

Thanks in advance!

ps: you’ll have to speak up with your reply — I lost my hearing trying to shut the damn thing off. Battery is currently disconnected!

 

No need to replace the alarm other than for it to sound when someone is breaking into or stealing your Crossfire
Otherwise they can be purchased at :

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...mer-2198203226

 

Thank you, Valk! For the moment, I’ve pulled the fuse (#9, engine compartment, driver’s side) which is supposed to control the circuit. I don’t want a nasty surprise when I reconnect the battery and drive this to my mechanic.

 

Worried about the siren working? Disconnect it and leave it in there or pull it and toss it. I have an order in my "saved" basket for a new one to replace mine at around $150 but what is the point? Car alarms go off everywhere these days and no one pays any attention to them (myself included). Unless someone shows up with a flat-bed and can drag your XF up on it this car is VERY hard to steal. By the time that silly siren sounds the windows will be smashed or the doors will have been pried opened with a crowbar and ya got big $ to spend fixing either one. These aren't authentic Shelby Cobras or something worth $1 Million.

 

I have an extra alarm/siren that is one of the updated part #’s. It has the three beeps when locking and one beep when unlocking. If you ever change your mind and want one, I paid 80$ for it if you want it I’ll let it go for 70$ and whatever shipping is.

 

To answer your question. You can disconnect the siren ( it is located under the black plastic cowl under the windshield ) and drive the car with no problems. Simple remove the windshield wipers and unscrew the cowl, disconnect the wiring connector, re-install the cowl and you are good to go. I have seen the siren disconnected without removal of the cowl by bending it up out of the way, but be prepared for scratched hands and wrist. The siren on my limited has been disconnected for years. I believe removing fuse 9 will also disable your interior lights.

 

Thx, DeepSea. I agree with all of your sentiments.

 

I appreciate the instructions, zip! If I feel ambitious I’ll give it a try. Meantime, you are correct — fuse 9 controls the overhead lights, as well as the auto-lock door mechanism. But I can live with that, for a while anyway.

Update on the ridiculous saga: so far, two trusted mechanics have told me that they won’t attempt to disconnect/remove the alarm module. Both are concerned that the module is run by the ECM, and the car won’t start if it’s messed with. Both said ‘take it to the dealer’ as if my local Chrysler guys had ever heard the word ‘Crossfire.’

The joys of owning an exotic XF.

 

I would also be leery of your trusted mechanics. Introduce them to this site.

 

Thanks, all for your guidance. I’ve managed to persuade a leery Merc mechanic to at least look at the issue. I have the pics and the relevant service manual pages set up for him (8Q - 53 & 54). Since I, the non-mechanic, have to guide this mechanic, I’d like to confirm. As I understand it, the process is: remove the wiper arms, remove the cowl/grill. The siren/alarm is dead center between passenger and driver, tucked up against the firewall. Unplug the wire, unbolt and remove the siren. Reinstall the cowl grill, reinstall the wiper blades.

Did I get that right?

 

That is correct; While the cowl is off clean the area as it often gets leaves under the cowl, blow out the four drain lines with low pressure air.

 

I would also recommend taping off the connector to the siren after it is unplugged. Job should take about 30 minutes tops.

 

To wrap this discussion up: thanks to the info from this group I successfully arm-twisted a Merc-specialist mechanic into removing the alarm siren. No issues, happy SRT-6 owner again.