Car Alarms: Disarm or put in to valet mode, valet mode, ford contour

Question
QUESTION: I just purchased a 98 Ford Contour with what appears to look like an aftermarket alarm (e.g., chrome button drilled into the plastic under the column and a flashing red, spring loaded LED sticking up the the pillar post on the dash.  I have learned that the button under the column is broken and I have to use a nail to touch the button for the car to start, after I turn the key to the ON position.  How can I disarm this for my wife so she doesn't have to touch the button with a nail everytime.  I only paid 2 grand for the car so I don't care if the alarm even works.  Please help!
Thanks you!

ANSWER: Ok then, get over to the local car alarm shop,
or even a Best Buys will
have a valet switch that will fit for your
alarm.

In the mean time, cut off the switch part,
leaving the 2 wires that were connected, free.

Then twist together, turn on the ignition,
hold both wires to ground until the siren chirps.

That should reset and place the alarm into
over ride for now. Nothing accept the keyless entry
if installed will operate until you repeat the
same steps.

Then get a new switch and you're all set.

Have a good day.
Let me know if you were
successful.

ALARMTEK
CARALARMZ.COM

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your reply!  I just want to clarify a few things so I don't have problems later.  Cut both wires to the switch as directed-can I leave them like that with out buying a new switch and not have to touch the nail to start it and leave it in override mode for good?  If I do get a new switch will a simple toggle switch work?  Does the spring loaded flashing LED do anything?  What is difference between the flash rate of the LED quick vs. slow?

I really appreciate the advice and hope this helps other who have purchased a used car in the same situation!!

Answer
Leave it in override and go get the new one.
If the LED is also "spring loaded", it might
be a Code alarm. If so, that LED might
also be a valet over ride switch.

But go get a new one to replace the one you have been using.
On the flashes, hard to say. Slow usually means that
the alarm is armed. Fast meaning it's been triggered.

But it's an educated guess. Not certain what system you
have there. If at all possible, take it up to a shop
and have an evaluation done to determine just what
you have, and the features it provides so you can
use it to it's best capacity.

RM :>)