Vodafone Automotive AK4615 CAN-BUS alarm – Obsessive Vehicle Security

The Vodafone Automotive AK4615 is really taking alarm technology to a new level. Not only does the alarm feature a wireless siren (more about that later) and Ultrasonic Sensors, but it also works as a CAN-BUS, or PLIP (upgrade) alarm so will work with nearly all vehicles from the factory remote control.

CAN-BUS or PLIP Alarm

The AK4615 can be configured to work in almost any vehicle as it can be programmed for CAN-BUS software or as a conventional Upgrade alarm. Each unit needs to be programmed before installation. The alarm simply plugs into a computer via the USB port to hook up to the Andromeda software program. Personally, I carry a laptop so I can make program changes on the road.

Once plugged in the installer can select between CAN-BUS and PLIP Alarm then decide which vehicle platform the alarm needs and change most of the features.

What features the alarm offers varies massively between vehicle make and models. For example, many of the German cars will inform the alarm if a window is left open. The alarm will then disable the ultrasonic sensors to avoid a false alarm, and chirp a warning tone on arming to notify the owner. The alarm can also disarm when the vehicle is presented with a valid transponder key.

Some manufacturers have a far more basic CAN-BUS network so it’s worth asking about what features are available for your own car.

Minor programming changes such as siren arm/disarm chirp selection and volume can still be adjusted once the alarm is in the vehicle.

Cobra Wireless Siren

The AK4615 is the first car alarm to feature the 5365 wireless siren.

Whilst it still needs a power supply to charge the battery back-up siren there is no longer the need to wire the siren up to the alarm ECU which saves the need to run cables between the two.

It is rated at IPX5 which is explained in the link below:

Cobra 5365 Wireless Siren

Optional Cobra Remote

The AK4615 has the option of operating from a Vodafone Automotive remote. There are two styles to choose from as shown in the picture.

These are great for those who acquire a car with only one remote key and a transponder blade key. The Vodafone Automotive remote option is normally much more affordable than a second remote key from the dealership where prices can often be on the steep side.

Horn Honk and second siren

The alarm has a dedicated horn honk output and can also have a Cobra 4310 siren added as an optional extra.

New Features

The AK4615 effectively replaces both the AB3868 and the AK4908. It also has plenty of new features lacking in past models. These include a pager out-put, the ability to hook up a second digital siren, or Immobiliser (remember not all CAN-BUS vehicles have a factory immobiliser, for example, 2012 Corolla Wagon).