Honda Repair: 1997 Honda Civic EX, honda civic ex, honda civic

Question
Hi,

Last night I attempted to change the battery on my 97 Honda Civic EX, and when I hooked up the new one, the alarm started going off. I didn't even know the car was equipped with an alarm- but apparently it is (and it's loud). In addition to the noise of the alarm going off, the car went into some kind of anti-theft mode where I was unable to turn it on (interior lights were blinking along with the alarm). The only way I could make it stop was to remove the cable from one of the battery terminals. (FYI- mileage on the car is 85,000.)

There is a small silver switch on the driver's side that must go with the alarm, but flipping it either direction did nothing. I assume the alarm was not factory installed (I bought the car used) but I'm not sure. I also don't have an owner's manual and am at a loss for what to do.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Answer
Cher, it could be a HNODA alarm. When triggered it should sound the horn and blink the parklights as well as disable the starter. If its a HONDA one you'll have to get a transmitter in order to disarm it. You CAN disarm the system by turning the ignition switch on and press the disarm/valet switch on the right side of the stereo face. If that doesn't work it's probably a aftermarket system and you will have to find out what make it is and get a manual from a local dealer. Good luck, RICK