[alfa] 146 keyproblem

["Dr M G Salter" <mgs5@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi
My 3.0 164 had a problem with the security code last year and was off the
road for 2 months while we traced the problem. It turned out to be a wire
between the key and the code box rubbing through. This one is a real
nightmare though because I had the maroon master and could re-set the system
once we identified the problem, though we replaced the code box as part of
the process. In your case you cant do this. As far as I know there is a way
to start the car in a kind of safe mode. It involves a code number which is
on a card that comes with the manuals and pressing the throttle set numbers
of times with the ignition turned on. It should be in the manual.

I know they charge huge sums of money for a replacement master so that is no
more an option than the replace the lot approach. I only found out about
this once I had the car but I now know never to buy a car without the master
key, this applies to many cars not just Alfas, its a pity you had to find
out the hard way. Im sorry I cant be of more help to you.

To Tim, this is the way it is. The maroon master is absolutely vital and you
must have it. As I say to William the key is around 1000 GBP to buy. This
was not just an Alfa design. The new cars are different, they have the same
security system but the mastering works differently. A code number to re-set
the system for each car is kept in a central register which is available to
the cars owner and this system is much better.

Mike Salter
156 2.5 v6, (amazing piece of kit but with a slight gearbox whine after only
3000 miles)
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