I bought a 1997 Barchetta. Since there are NO Fiat dealers or repair shops in the USA anymore I have no other resource when I have a problem. And this Barchetta has been trouble from day one. The battery died and upon putting a new one in the car it will not start. Code keys do not seem to be recognized and no one can help me. I called Torino Italy as a long shot but no one spoke English. I called 4 garages in the UK and only one even tried to help. One guy told me to "just bring it around for a check". Very funny as that is a long boat ride. I searched this forum about the Immobilizer for info and have not found the answer. So by joining I can be more specific.
Car turns over but does not start.
Code key light does NOT go on at all.
I was able to use the Electronic Code card and after completing the sequence, the car still would not start.
I took out the fuel cut off switch out of frustration in case that may be the problem, but I don't know if the switch is an always on type, and that I should connect the two wires, or, if the switch is a press once contact type and I should just touch the wires and then separate them
I disconnected fuel line from manifold to see if fuel is reaching engine but I am told immobilizer shuts off fuel pump as well. So that was a waste of time
I checked all fuses
I have the red master code key, one blue ignition key, and one blue blank key.
Questions:
1. Does the Immobilizer shut off fuel pump?
2. Where is the Immobilizer located? Is it under dash?
3. Where is the antenna for it that I hear so many times may be at fault?
The Big Question here is how do I bypass, disconnect, or otherwise get rid of this Immobilizer? I understand that putting such info on this Forum puts everyones car at risk. You can email me direct with that info if you have a solution. I don't understand what the big concern is, does anybody really steal FIATs ??? Here in the US there are only 2 or 3 Barchettas that I know of in the entire country. Nobody even knows what they are when they see one. I can supply you with the VIN# my name, address, blood type, or what ever info you need so you know I am really here in the USA and not a FIAT thief.