O.K. I'm a dumbass. Some time ago the battery failed in alarm remote No 1 (I have 2) since which time I've been using the second handset. I parked outside the flat this evening and when I went back out and tried to disarm the alarm .....zilch. Unlocked the drivers door with the key and much mucho wailing of alarm and flashing lights. I put the key in the ignition and turned on.. nothing... you can't even unset the immobiliser!

I know I know, this is just how the system is supposed to work, but there really is no answer to the situation if you get caught out like this!! To cut a long story short, walked around 3 local shops and 2 garages in the pouring rain before I got the spare batteries I should have bought months ago!! There was no warning of the sudden battery failure. I think the only safeguard seems to be to carry both remotes on the keyring!!

I now have a couple of spare batteries laid by! I have the Honda Cat1 alarm!. The only other thing I can think of is to have a concealed isolation switch fitted, but it would have to disarm both the alarm and immobiliser.

 

Nearly had this catch me out with the same alarm in my ITR. The Honda handset's are notorious for draining batteries pretty quickly. Call me paranoid, but I have a spare battery!

-Brian.

 

Do you keep the spare battery in the car Brian?

 

Nope. In my wallet. If the handset starts being a problem, I just need to scrounge a screwdriver to change it. I also swap sets of keys every few weeks, so that I know the battery isn't going in the spare set. I've noticed that generally the handset's won't work from near the boot of the car when the battery first starts going - but you're fine by the doors. Gives a long advance warning. I also had problems with the short range of the ITR system - it was more prone to interference from other radio sources. There was one spot in Nuneaton where I parked, that nearly blanked the whole signal out. Once the car was away from there, no problems. I wouldn't exactly describe Honda's Cat 1 alarm as the best!

-Brian.

 

Do they not change the battery as part of the service ??

 

Not that I'm aware of Andy, but it looks like a battery isn't going to last between services if the car's in daily use.

 

Nope. The last battery cost a bit over a tenner IIRC - not something they'd want to add on to your service bill.

-Brian.

 

What is the type of battery needed Ced ?
I'll get one to keep in the car, just in case.

 

It's an MN21 12 volt alkaline battery. Cylindrical and about an inch long by a 1/4 inch wide. It's the type used in some cigarette lighters too!

 

Hmmmm.... Good point guys.... Thanks

Have just put "Car alarm battery" in my on Palm Pilot Shopping List for 2morrow