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Toyota Camry 1997-2001: How to Deactivate Anti-Theft System

It's possible to deactivate the alarm system in a 4th generation Toyota Camry without visiting a local Toyota dealer; however, you'll need to carry out several steps before the project is complete.

By Charlie Gaston - July 22, 2015

This article applies to the Toyota Camry (1997-2001).

The anti-theft system in the 4th generation Toyota Camry was designed to ensure your vehicle is not stolen while you are out of reach and unable to defend your property from thieves. If you are making repairs to your vehicle, you might want to disengage the system until your project(s) is complete; you can also disengage the system for personal reasons, if you wish. Keep in mind that if you deactivate your anti-lock system for a long or short while, your car will no longer generate warning signs at the first indication of a possible break-in. Your alarm will not sound and your horn and emergency flashers will not come on. Also, flashing lights will not appear on your dashboard. Let's go over the steps you'll need to take to complete this easy DIY project!

Materials Needed

  • Owner's manual

Step 1 – Check underneath the dashboard

Searching with your hand, feel underneath the dashboard for a button or switch. Without cranking the engine, turn the ignition key to the "ON" position, but don't crank your engine.

Figure 1. Locate the button under the dashboard.

Pro Tip

There might be a toggle switch in place of a button. This is correct. You will need to turn the switch in the opposite direction, and then turn your ignition off when you are finished to deactivate the alarm.

Step 2 – Override the system

Press and hold the override button that you located in step one (only if it is not a toggle switch). You must complete this step within five seconds of turning the ignition to the position just before your engine cranks. Continue to hold the button until the warning light on your dashboard goes solid. You should hear a single, solitary chirp to indicate you have successfully completed this step and have deactivated your anti-theft alarm.

Step 3 – Remove the fuse

If the alarm is still engaged, and you are not skilled in wiring (or simply do not have the time to remove the steering column to determine if the alarm is wired to the ignition switch), pop the hood of your car and remove the alarm fuse using your fuse puller. To locate your alarm fuse, check your fuse panel diagram, which is printed in your owner's manual.

Figure 2. This is a sample fuse panel diagram.

Step 4 – Visit a local Toyota dealer

Whether you are attempting to deactivate a factory-installed alarm, or an aftermarket alarm previously installed by you or a previous owner of the vehicle, your local Toyota dealer can resolve most issues pertaining to a malfunctioning anti-theft alarm, including the removal or deactivation of one.

Figure 3. Make an appointment for faster service.

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