We all know what turbo timers do (if not, this Wikipedia page explains!), but until recently I hadn’t considered the potential problems that can arise from having one installed. A valued customer, for whom I had recently installed an Autowatch 446RLi Premium alarm system, contacted me with an unexpected issue.
The Problem
The customer explained that because the built-in turbo timer on his alarm was running, he had inadvertently left his park lights on. When he returned to his vehicle, a diesel automatic, of all things, the battery was completely flat.
Before the timer was installed, the headlight warning buzzer would have alerted him that the park lights were still on. However, with the timer keeping the ignition live, the alert buzzer no longer functioned properly.
The Solution
The fix was straightforward and involved re-wiring the park light alert buzzer’s ignition feed to the key side of the ignition/turbo timer circuit. Twenty minutes later, the customer had a fully functional park light alert buzzer that would work even when the timer was running.
This solution can be applied to most alarm systems with built-in turbo timers, as well as aftermarket turbo timers, with the addition of a relay if needed.
Keeping Customers Happy
The customer was easy to work with and had already been satisfied with the alarm installation. I always tell customers when handing back their keys that if they have any questions, they should let me know, and this is exactly what he did.
In fact, he wasn’t even sure if I could find a solution but thought he’d run the problem by me anyway.
I enjoy these little challenges as they keep the job interesting.
