mx5cartalk.com

I was told by the previous owner that there were no alarm systems in the car, but when I checked the engine bay (and the boot) I saw the alarm module as well as momentary switches for the boot and hood. There is also what seems to be an immobiliser light on top of the steering wheel column (not sure if that is factory or added in). What I want to know is, is it safe to just remove the alarm system from the car, or should I get it checked out/removed by an auto electrician.

I am fairly confident with wiring work (final yr engineering), but not sure how integrated the alarm system is with the ecu. I don't want to remove it and then the car gets immobilised by the ecu. afaik, the alarm system is defunct, nothing beeps when I lock/unlock. no alarm goes off when I unlock the car from the inside (when the roof is down).

What I plan to do is remove this one, and purchase a mongoose system, or something similar.

Mentioning which model MX5 you've got would help with answers, but note from your Garage thread you have a 2001 NB8B.

Don't know enough about the NB8B to answer your questions, but I'm sure one of the other owners will chip in.

I doubt the alarm is integrated with the ECU directly.
It will integrate with some part of the ignition system to slow down the stealing process.

If it's a Mazda dealer fit the siren should be near the radiator overflow bottle and the motion sensor under the radio in the centre console.

If you feel confident enough with tracing the wiring just follow where they go (don't just yank it out) and return the changes to stock.

Should be fine.

^correct in the locations, i've removed the motion sensor from under the radio console (just unplugged it, cable still attached), it was sitting just above the gear stick. I'll probably have a look at removing the alarm in a couple of weeks when I'm less lazy. As far as I can tell I don't think it's connected to the ecu, so I'll do as you said and trace the wires.

I'll have a look at some other alarm systems once I get this done.