Car Alarms: 1996 Maxima alarm working??, valet mode, double pulse

Question
I purchaced a 1996 Maxima June of last year.I always thought the alarm was working even though I have never heard it go off.The panic button works,as well as locking the doors and even rolling the windows down. The lights flicker when I press the lock button. But recently my key was taken and I was looking at the manual and it said when the alarm is first armed that the red light by the steering wheel should stay on for 30 sec. then blink.Well mine just constantly blinks. There is no sound when I press the lock button it only locks the doors and the lights flash. Is this just a "dummy alarm"?

Answer
Is this a factory alarm or aftermarket alarm? If it is aftermarket I would assume it is in valet mode. To get it out of this mode turn the ignition on and press and hold the button under the dash for 5 seconds. Some aftermarket alarms also have a switch instead of a push button if this is the case try flipping the switch the in the other position. If this is a factory alarm try pressing the lock button 2 times on the key fob some factory security systems require a double pulse 1st to lock and the 2nd to arm the alarm.
Let me know how you make out.
Denny