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 sends 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 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 further details, see DESCRIPTION AND
OPERATION 5580E.The Code control unit supply lines are protected
by the same fuses that protect the engine management unit.