Despite advancements in automotive protection, vehicle theft rates aren't decreasing. The theft of one's vehicle or the belongings within is common, and many such instances aren't even reported to police.
We've all hear stories from friends or family about the horror associated with a break-in. It's costly, a hassle, and can leave you virtually stranded should it happen in an unfamiliar city. In many cases, police won't even investigate.
The most likely vehicle related crimes are the "smash and grab", as well as the theft of the vehicle itself. The latter can be a costly and harrowing experience, so it's important to make sure your vehicle is protected by an immobilizer. These prevent your engine from starting by deactivating the car's ignition or fuel systems when the security system is armed.
Once the alarm is set, the vehicle is rendered inoperable until the owner disarms the system with their key or remote. In effect, arming the vehicle's alarm electronically cripples the engine- meaning a would-be thief trying to steal your wheels will get nowhere fast.
Many new and used cars have an immobilizer available as standard equipment. Insurance companies often offer discounts if you have one installed, perhaps as part of an aftermarket security system. Many are available with interesting features like motion sensors, glass-break monitors and even two-way paging. See your dealership or local mobile electronics store for an assessment of your needs.
Additionally, your dealership or auto parts retailer may have a selection of other theft deterrent devices like steering-wheel locks, pedal locks or even locking wheel-nuts- if you've got an expensive set of alloys you'd like to protect.
Immobilizers don't prevent your window from being smashed so someone can go through the cabin to take your wallet, CDs, cell phone, PDA or other valuables. Car thieves love to window shop- so it's best to simply not leave valuables in your car.
We've all hear stories from friends or family about the horror associated with a break-in. It's costly, a hassle, and can leave you virtually stranded should it happen in an unfamiliar city. In many cases, police won't even investigate.
The most likely vehicle related crimes are the "smash and grab", as well as the theft of the vehicle itself. The latter can be a costly and harrowing experience, so it's important to make sure your vehicle is protected by an immobilizer. These prevent your engine from starting by deactivating the car's ignition or fuel systems when the security system is armed.
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Once the alarm is set, the vehicle is rendered inoperable until the owner disarms the system with their key or remote. In effect, arming the vehicle's alarm electronically cripples the engine- meaning a would-be thief trying to steal your wheels will get nowhere fast.
Many new and used cars have an immobilizer available as standard equipment. Insurance companies often offer discounts if you have one installed, perhaps as part of an aftermarket security system. Many are available with interesting features like motion sensors, glass-break monitors and even two-way paging. See your dealership or local mobile electronics store for an assessment of your needs.
Additionally, your dealership or auto parts retailer may have a selection of other theft deterrent devices like steering-wheel locks, pedal locks or even locking wheel-nuts- if you've got an expensive set of alloys you'd like to protect.
Immobilizers don't prevent your window from being smashed so someone can go through the cabin to take your wallet, CDs, cell phone, PDA or other valuables. Car thieves love to window shop- so it's best to simply not leave valuables in your car.
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