I'm thinking about fixing the CPU in my S5 Turbo. My alarm, key/headlight reminder, and ignition switch light all don't work. I realize that the alarm could not be working for many other reasons that are outlined in the FSM, but I wanted to take a look at the CPU first since it controls all those functions.

I plan on following the procedures outlined at this site:
http://www.johnr.com/rx7faq/faq3.html

I have already fixed a few electrical problems with the car including the driver side window switch, wiper relay switch, and the clock in the idiot cluster.

For those who have experience fixing the CPU, did those operations such as the alarm, etc. come back again right after repairing the CPU? Or did you have to do something else afterwards? How long did it take with the CPU? an hour?

I know this is sort of the backwards approach to fixing the alarm that the FSM recommends, but after searching through the forums, it seems like the CPU is the main culprit, rather than a bad door switch.

I am a bit apprehensive about taking about the CPU since it's much more than a window switch. I just wanted to know how successful you guys have been.

Thanks

 

S5 CPUs are a little different than listed in the link, but you could try that. Normally with S5 CPUs there is also a gated array that overloads and burns out internally that can also cause many of the issues on the main board that you discuss.

But try re-soldering the main board first. If that doesn't fix it, replace the main board (available pretty damm cheap at Mazdatrix.com).