Any workaround for a 360's failed alarm system??

Hi folks,

Once again I'm faced with a frustrating 360 problem, and once again I turn to the Gods of The FChat Technical Q&A for some advice.

Here's the situation: Took the 360 in for an oil change the other day. Just as it was getting washed and prepped for my pickup, the alarm went off (beeps and flashing lights). They tried to press the key fob -- no dice. They tried starting the car up -- started right up, but still beeping and flashing 4-ways.

After 2 hours, they realized there was a problem -- the alarm simply won't turn off. The key fob locks and unlocks the car, the engine starts up and the car drives wonderfully. But the alarm is constantly going off. Obviously this makes for difficult driving conditions ( ) ... They tried pulling the Alarm fuse, which stopped the alarm, but then the car wouldn't start (immobilizer is in series with the alarm -- no alarm, no engine).

Now I'm being told the problem is a malfunctioning alarm ECU, but because it's so intimately tied with the immobilizer need to replace the ENTIRE ECU system of the car -- and that it's going to be 2 WEEEEEEEEEKS for them to get the parts from Ferrari (it's a Euro car, so they need to order the ECUs, which are VIN-tied). I still can't believe that I'm now out of commission for 2 weeks because of the silly alarm (that I don't use or care about in the first place).

So....is there any workaround??? The dealer claims not. They tell me FNA claims not either -- the only fix is a new set of ECUs . I really don't need or care for the alarm, and would be just as happy if I could bypass the system entirely.

I know that the Bosch system in place is the same as in the new Porsches, and a knowledgeable Porsche person tells me that in their system, there is a way to tell the main ECU to bypass the alarm, but it involves programming an undocumented HEX code that, for obvious reasons, the factory denies exists. Maybe there's a similar code for the 360 (likely, because it's the same system, but unlikely to be the same code).

Any ideas would be GREATLY appreciated.....

--Noah

 

ps -- yes, I already thought of just pulling out the bulbs on the 4-ways until the new ECU arrives But then I'd be without turn signals, and though I COULD use my hands, that's not an acceptible solution for me (or the police).

 

Brian -- I continue to be impressed with your level of knowledge about this stuff, and very much appreciate your thoughts.

I will call the dealer tomorrow and ask about the right vs. left (vs. both) Motronics and make sure I'm not being hit for both. It'd be great if you could let me know what your notes say about that -- obviously I'd prefer not to have to buy a new ECU if it isn't necessary.

I've also PM'd Dave and asked his advice (and for him to check out this thread)...

I'm also glad to hear you think there may be a workaround -- now it's just a matter of finding someone here in NY/NJ who can make it happen. If you or anyone else has any ideas or leads, they will be followed immediately.

Thanks again...

--Noah