I own a 2001 Volvo XC70 that is having the common "Alarm System Service Required" message show up when I start the car. I've read enough to know it's commonly caused by a bad siren module, and that the siren module battery can often be replaced and it will fix the problem. I found the appropriate siren module battery and took the car to a local expert in car alarm systems; he discovered the siren module is toast and cannot be repaired by replacing the battery. The next thought would be to replace the siren module, but like many others with this problem I'm not concerned with having a properly functioning alarm system (and the "Alarm Service System Required" message doesn't bother me enough to want to spend big $$ to fix it). However, I'm having another issue pertaining to the alarm system, and this problem is more annoying and I'd like to find a proper fix if one exists:
In addition to the error message when starting the car (which again, does not bother me), the alarm is being falsely triggered - frequently. The siren module (which is bad) is unplugged, so the only thing that happens when the alarm is triggered is the lights flash. I'd really like to find a way to stop the alarm from being triggered, but I have no idea where to start.
HERE'S THE BIGGEST PROBLEM; I have no way to properly diagnose what is causing the alarm to go off and there is no Volvo dealer within 4 hours of where I live - my local independent European import mechanic isn't willing to chase the problem (he's kinda lazy) and his software wouldn't bring up a definitive code to indicate what is causing the false alarms. In addition, I've brought the vehicle to 3 other repair shops (none of which have the proper software to find the alarm issue) and no one is even willing to "try" and diagnose the false alarms.
Lastly, I've ruled out the fabled "coins in the console" issue (which, I understand, has been known to cause false alarms) since the problem existed before I ever put any coins in the console.
If anyone has any suggestions, please let me know as I'm desperate to try and fix this problem. Thanks!! Please pretend like you're talking to an idiot when posting replies as I have very limited mechanical knowledge
