To increase protection against theft attempts,
an electronic immobilizer system known as the 'FIAT CODE-2' system
has been 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 more details
see DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION: 5580E anti-theft device
.
The Code system has supply lines for the
control unit protected by the maxifuse which also protects the engine
management system, by a specific fuse and by the fuse which protects
other supplies controlled by the ignition: the two fuses are located
in the engine compartment in the relay and fuse box.