audiovox aps 996a and 02 expedition

I'm trying to install a audiovox aps-996a in a 2002 ford expedition and having issues with a module for the transponder bypass. Can anyone tell me the best bypass module to use that will work with the 996a? I have tried to use a dei 555f-w, but it seems that the 996a does not have the correct - activation input to connect with. this expedition was made in 8th month of 01 a early model production run. Thanks in advance, DaleDale Prevette

Actually any bypass module will work with the Audiovox systems if connected in the W2W mode. The D2D harness only saves you three wire connections. IMHO, the iDatalink ADS TBSL KO bypass module is a good choice. It comes pre-flashed with firmware and is ready to go right out of the box. Only three connections to the truck and three to the R/S. Pretty easy programming and very reliable. It should handle any Expedition from 1999 to 2013.Soldering is fun!

I don't disagree with kreg's product preference, but if you already have the 555F, you might as well use it. 555F red to fused constant power 555F blue to the light blue ignition 3 wire in the multi-pin harness on the Audiovox; the harness that has the ground, lights, siren, et cetera. The 555F was a terrible design, with a little glass pellet that's VERY dependent on placement, and the manufacturer never included any documentation as to where it should be placed. But it will still work. I would approach this in the following order: 1: Full install remote starter, and make sure it works with a good key sitting in the car's ignition switch in the off position. That way, you can be sure you did your install correctly. 2: Program the 555F according to its included instructions, which indicate holding the pellet right in the middle, right in front of the keyhole. 3: After programming, attempt to remote start the engine while holding the pellet in the same place you had it during programming. This way, you know you programmed it right, and that it's wired properly. 4: Experiment with zip-tying or maybe gluing the 555F pellet in various positions on the edge of the key cylinder and eventually you'll find a position where the remote starter will work, and you'll still have enough clearance to put the car back together. TIPS: ---There's a small hole in the plastic under the steering column. Turn the key to Run, push a pointy tool deep into that hole, and the entire key/lock cylinder will pull right out so you can get the rest of the column apart. (The ignition will stay in "run" until you put it back, so make sure you're battery is good or keep the car on a charger.) ---The 555F instructions will tell you, at one step in the programming, to turn the ignition off and then activate the remote starter. However, the Audiovox systems have a long delay to start that will get you kicked out of programming mode. (You'll see what I mean when you go to do it.) To bypass the delay, just tap and release the brake pedal immediately after you turn off the ignition, or just keep your foot on the brake during programming, and then release your foot immediately after turning the ignition off.

THANK You very much Chris! Got it the first time. I was taking too long on act. RS after programming the 555f. I removed the lower half of the cover and the bulb fits tightly between the upper cover and the ring on switch. Did add a drop of instant glue for good measure, tied the wire and works like a champ.Dale Prevette

Wow, that's good to hear! By the way, a quick thing in case you have any trouble in the future. 1: With the engine off, look at the dash. There's a small red "THEFT" light that flashes every so often. 2: Turn the ignition on. You can start the engine or just leave the key on; doesn't matter. You'll see that the light comes on steady for a few seconds, and then goes out. OK, so now you're familiar with how the light is supposed to work. If ever the remote starter someday doesn't work, observe the light while using the remote starter. If the light flashes very, very rapidly during the time the remote starter is on, the car is sensing a theft attempt and that's why it won't start. Then you'll know that your 555F has failed or fallen out of position.