The Fiat Code System - Fiat Panda Owner's Handbook Manual

SYMBOLS
GETTING TO
Some car components have coloured labels whose
KNOW YOUR CAR
symbols indicate precautions to be observed when
using this component. Under the bonnet there is
also a label that summarises all the symbols.
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTS
AND MESSAGES
IN AN EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
MAINTENANCE
TECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONS
INDEX
18

THE FIAT CODE SYSTEM

To further protect your car from theft, it has been
fitted with an engine immobilising system. It is
automatically activated when the ignition key is
removed.
Each key contains an electronic device which
modulates the signal emitted during ignition by an
antenna built into the ignition device. The signal
is the "password", different every time the car is
started, through which the control unit recognises
the key and enables starting.
OPERATION
Each time the vehicle is started turning the ignition
key to MAR-ON, the Fiat CODE system control unit
sends an acknowledgement code to the engine
control unit to deactivate the immobiliser. The code
is sent only if the Fiat CODE system control unit
has acknowledged the code received from the key.
Each time the ignition key is turned to STOP, the Fiat
CODE system deactivates the functions of the
engine management control unit. If, during starting,
the code is not correctly recognised, the
light switches on in the instrument panel. In this
case, turn the key to STOP and then to MAR-ON; if
it is still locked, try again with the other keys that
come with the vehicle. Contact a Fiat Dealership
if you still cannot start the engine.
warning