To increase the protection against theft attempts, an electronic
immobiliser system known as the ALFA ROMEO CODE system is adopted.The keys are fitted with an electronic Transponder
device, which send a coded signal to a special CODE electronic control
unit. If it recognizes the code sent, it allows the engine to be
started up.The code used in the communication, which
takes place via aerial, changes each time the car is started up
(rolling code). The code cannot therefore be reproduced, even with
electronic scanners.The main function of the Code control unit
is to identify the code in the ignition key. The control unit contains
a secret code which is used to communicate with the key Transponder.The control unit contains all enabled key
codes in its memory, together with the code used in the communication
between Code control unit and engine management unit. When the key
is turned to MAR for the first time, if the key is identified correctly,
the code is transferred to the engine management unit and is then
indelibly linked to the Code control unit.
For more details
see DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION: 5580E anti-theft device
.
The Code control unit supply lines are protected
by the same fuses that protect the engine management unit.