alarm going off on its own
 

Our friend has a '93 Protege with less than 40,000 miles on it, well maintained, etc. Both rear struts were replaced a few weeks ago by the dealer who sold us the car (one strut had broken). Since then, when the outside temp is low (maybe below 45--I don't know exactly), the alarm has been going off independently--no breakin attempts, no one around, keys put away somewhere.

The only solution so far has been to disconnect the battery at night, rather a pain, and will get more painful as it gets colder here in Iowa.

Any ideas? There were posts about the same problem several months ago, but no solution was ever posted.

Thanks! Mechanics we aren't, but we wonder whether there's a connection between the strut repair and the problem.

gail

RE: alarm going off on its own
 

Do you know if it an aftermarket alarm? I would think that the system is not factory installed. What does it say on the keyfob for a brand? I can not see how the strut replacement on the rear would have anything to do with it.

RE: alarm going off on its own
 

You're right--took it to someone who does car doodads and he said there is no alarm on this model! He said it's a horn issue, so he disconnected the horn. Obviously we have to get the horn fixed, and we will. Our friend's command of English is somewhat limited, so we don't always know what the problem is.

But thanks for your speedy reply! If I'd asked the right question, I'm sure you would have had the right answer for that too!

gail

RE: alarm going off on its own
 

I know that some Protege's from the earlier 90's had horn pad problems when it gets cold. The plastic will shrink enough to have the contacts inside come together and sound the horn.

RE: alarm going off on its own
 

Sounds like a diagnosis! Thanks, bkey71! Do you know what the treatment is?

gail

RE: alarm going off on its own
 

I don't want to say diagnosis for sure. I cannot remember what the steering wheel looks like off hand. but it takes replacing the horn buttons on the steering wheel.