What's the blank circle (in dash) below the "airbag" circle?

REDLINE · 11-13-2006, 06:44 PM

I'm guessing its the alarm "armed" circle? I can almost see a key outline in it. How does this work? Do you have to get the VIP alarm installed in order to see it light up?

**RoverGGM** · 11-13-2006, 06:47 PM

It is activated with the installation of the "oem" V.I.P. security system.

**dbbd1** · 11-13-2006, 06:55 PM

Ditto, see above.

I tried to hack it for my after-market alarm system and although it could be done (and actually pretty easily), I chose not to because you you would have to destroy the pc board that it is on to make it happen. There is a whole pc board back there going from it, up to the air bag idiot lights and such. I just thought better of it, I want to keep it as "put back-able to stock condition" as possible. (That is why I also always try to use blanks and plugs that can easily be replaced to look "new" again).

REDLINE · 11-13-2006, 08:03 PM

Thanks for the replies. How much does the V.I.P. usualy cost (including installation)?

**Chatsworth 818 FJ** · 11-13-2006, 08:11 PM

Dealer Invoice is $320 and $479 is retail. Install cost will depend on the service dept. you goto.

**underactive** · 11-13-2006, 08:21 PM

Quote:

REDLINE previously said:

Thanks for the replies. How much does the V.I.P. usualy cost (including installation)?

trdsource has em for $300. I had mine installed at the local dealer for $150. Took about 2.5-3 hours to install. I'm better with electronics than I am with mechanical stuff, but after browsing through the 20+ page installation manual and looking at all the harnesses I'd have to remove, and all the wires I'd have to remove from those harnesses and reroute, I figure I'd play it safe and have it installed at the dealer.

The unit seems to be very integrated with the rest of the FJ's electronics, as it knows when you insert the key into the ignition, when you manually lock the door (using the lever next to the handle as opposed to the electronic switch), when you lock using the external locks, etc (it uses various sequences of these events so that you can program active/passive mode and time delays).

Not to mention that it uses the indicator below the airbag light, and includes a switch to disable the sensor that fits right in with the cluster of switches below the radio.

I got my unit through a private seller here and saved a good amount, so the installation price didn't sting as much. YMMV

EARL97850 · 11-13-2006, 09:01 PM

Does the Toyota alarm ave the ability to remote start thr FJ?

Cya

**underactive** · 11-13-2006, 10:06 PM

Quote:

EARL97850 previously said:

Does the Toyota alarm ave the ability to remote start thr FJ?

Cya

Nope, it just has basic alarm features -- detection for doors, interior radar/proximity sensor, ignition switch monitoring, and starter kill when triggered.

thugasaur · 11-14-2006, 12:09 AM

is it worth getting or should i go after market?

REDLINE · 11-14-2006, 09:38 AM

It seems like a very cool alarm system...too bad it costs so much. :/