VIP alarm questions

[joe citizen]

I bought a 97 Camry that came with one of the VIP systems. The keychain however has a Viper logo on it and it has a remote start function as well as keyless entry (both working great) so Im assuming some type of Viper system was installed at some later point along side the factory VIP system.

My problem is I seem to be missing the security side of the VIP or Viper system because you can bump into the car, unlock it without a key and no alarm ever sounds. Im wondering if my problem could be as simple as the VIP not being enabled or perhaps the Viper remote needs to be programed to work with the VIP. Im not really sure on what I should be looking at to fix this problem and Im looking for suggestions?

[islandboy57]

The Viper (DEI is their parent company) system should also have an anti-theft function built-in, and the Toyota VIP system should have been disabled. If you lift the hood, do you see a small siren near the driver's side?

Regardless, even if the shock sensor was defective, the door triggers should still sound the alarm. The only other thing I can think of other than the system being defective, is that it is in "Valet mode" where all convenience functions like keyless entry work but the security side is disabled. The LED light should indicate being in valet mode though.

Good luck, you may try a smaller security alarm shop which sells DEI systems and see if they can check the system out for you.

[joe citizen]

Well I ended up removing the panel under the steering column and found out that I had a Viper 160vx so at least thats a start. When I disconnect the Viper 160vx the remote functions stop so I guess that tells me a little. Im going to keep digging and see what else I can come up with. I never get any chirping or horn honking when I lock or unlock doors nor was I able to find a siren under the hood (although I could have overlooked it somehow).

[95toyotacamry]

Try and look for a switch, Viper alarms bring a on/off switch which is used for when you take your car to the mechanic and leave it you disable the alarm so it does not go off for no reason. You might also find a push button but thats just the valet parking pushbutton.

[islandboy57]

I just googled Viper 160XV. Apparently it is solely a remote start and keyless entry system, it does not have any security functions. I'm sure the Toyota VIP system is disconnected so that the remote start can function. Personally, I'd rather have a security system over a remote start system. The previous owner must have cheaped out, a remote start + security system couldn't have been that much more.

[joe citizen]

Well I may just go ahead and buy a Viper 791xv or 5900. I have been doing a little research and can buy the 791xv for about $150 including shipping or the 5900 for $205 including shipping. Do you know if either of these would be able to take advantage of the wiring thats already been done with the Viper 160XV?