The AU Falcon Introduction:

The AU Falcon continued the EL's relatively high level of security with three notable changes - the deletion of the passenger's side door lock and boot mounted key lock (on sedans only - the wagon retained this feature). Thus removing two potential points methods of entry for the potential low life scum - great for Ford (cost) and for the customer alike - a win win situation - especially considering how likely you were to use them with the latest keyless entry systems anyway. The third exception unfortunately meant the deletion of the flashing smart lock symbol on the dash board - an unfortunate cost saving attempt at the expense of the customer. Damn the bean counters, damn the bean counters!

All AU's came with an interior light that automatically came on when unlocking the car with the remote control - giving you a chance to check the interior for unwanted guests well before opening a door.

Like most late model Falcons (ED - EL) the early AU's resisted theft by the amateur thief and joy rider extremely well - however quickly became the target of professional thieves when fitted with the more expensive options such as 17" wheels, Fairmont or leather interiors. XR's quickly became a principle target with their abundance of desirable items. Subsequently, if purchasing a vehicle from this group it is advised that a sufficient security system be fitted especially if parking in an high risk area or around certain large shopping centres.

Later AU's became much harder to steal (not that the early cars were 'easy') with a new security system fitted and new BEM (Body Electronic Module) with key mounted transponder ensuring that even if a key is cut to match the original, the car still could not be started. Cars so fitted can be identified by a more bulky 'eyebrow' surrounding the ignition barrel and different shaped key tag (much squarer and more bulky than the Mazda Rotor shaped early item). Replacement of a lost key will not only require cutting of the correct key, but an extra three hours in a Ford Dealership reprogramming the vehicle to accept the new transponder - the extra time taken a security measure in itself.

No doubt, given time the thieves (pricks) will work out some other way of bypassing this too but for the moment on most models it remains a highly effective method of keeping the car where it is supposed to be. Still, for the more highly sought after models or those fitted with highly desirable aftermarket items, it is advisable that a competent alarm / security system be fitted for peace of mind - and to ensure yours isn't the first to be 'cracked'.

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