97 Camry EX. Changed battery, couldn't get car started, and anti-theft siren was sounding. Disconnected anti-theft module below steering wheel behind dash, siren stopped sounding and car turned on. Am I missing anything by leaving that module disconnected?

I've read elsewhere in this forum and noted this module is called the VIP module. The number on the module is 924461000356 A03. Sound right?

I'm concerned that I'll experience problems down the road if I don't plug it back in, but since everything seems to be working well so far, I don't want to reconnect it if it isn't necessary. I'm not concerned with the anti-theft features, more with the functionality of the car.

Thanks for your time!

You don't mention if the anti-theft device is factory-installed or aftermarket. In any case, an alarm that is so easy to disable is pretty much useless. Consider relocating or covering up this weakness.

Alarms are typically tripped off when the battery has been disconnected. I have an aftermarket system for my '92 which requires an arm/disarm sequence before it will allow me to start the car.

I can't see any issues with leaving it disabled, but I wouldn't leave the fob at home. You never know when you might need it.

Thanks for your reply. What does FOB stand for? I've noticed the acronym in several of the threads I searched.

To my knowledge, the anti-theft system is factory installed.

So the factory installed anti-theft system isn't something that other systems depend on in any way?

"What does FOB stand for?"

The FOB is the device attached to your key ring that activates and deactivates the alarm system with the press of one of the buttons on it. It has a small battery inside of it to send the signal to the brain box. I don't really know what it's an acronym for.

If it is a Toyota factory alarm system, the FOB will have some type of Toyota logo on it.

"So the factory installed anti-theft system isn't something that other systems depend on in any way? "

Some alarm systems do have a starter-kill as part of their antitheft system. This would prohibit the starter from turning over the motor (also called cranking the engine) unless the alarm is deactivated. I can't say how your's works or whether or not it has this feature.

Mike

We don't have the FOB. Are they expensive to obtain?

My dad has removed the module from inside the dash, and the car is operational, so apparently it doesn't have a starter kill function.

Fob is not an acronym, just what they call the little transmitter on your keyring...originating from its definition as a small medallion or grab-hold hung on a pocketwatch chain.

[back from the nerd zone]

Yes, most alarm systems have a starter kill switch and some will also control the door locks, windows, and trunk. Disabling the alarm may or may not affect these features it just depends on if the alarm system was designed to be a factory standard feature or an option. Optional features (as may be the case for your situation) are usually designed to be plug in & go when being installed at the factory. Your best bet is to ask the dealer on how to go about disabling it if that is what you REALLY want.

Yes they are a pain at times until you get used to them, and it's not like you disconnect the battery every day. I'd review the instructions and try reconnecting the connector, with engine and key off. Some protection is better than none.

My dad will most likely opt for leaving the TDS module disconnected as most electronic systems in a car are, to him, an unwelcome interference.

Thanks for your time and the information you provided!