Types of Car Alarms

The right automobile alarm system can discourage anyone who's thinking about stealing your vehicle or its valuable contents. Car alarms emit a loud sound, such as a siren, horn or verbal warning. Some cause the lights to flash, page the owner and keep the car's electrical systems from starting.

At the Factory

An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) alarm is built into the car when it is being made at the factory. Many alarms are turned on or off with a keyless remote.
With some automobiles, door cylinders activate switches, so the alarm will arm or disarm when a key is put into the lock. Other vehicle alarms turn on when the driver presses the power door lock switch and closes the door. Still other automobiles are equipped with an ignition-based system. When the right key code is used and the ignition is turned on, the alarm will turn off.

After-market alarms

After-market alarms are installed after the car is built by the car dealer, vehicle supply store or the auto's owner. Like OEM alarms, after-market systems are often turned on and off with a key fob remote-control device. This remote consists of a very small battery-powered radio transmitter. The battery will go dead or work less well with time. It should be changed every two years or sooner, depending on what is recommended by the specifications. Sometimes the radio frequency is blocked by other nearby transmitting devices.
Put your stereo system in after or at the same time as your alarm system, so it will not be stolen from an unarmed car. Do not skimp on an alarm. You do not need to get the highest priced unit, but beware of low-end non-brand-name products. Read product comparisons and reviews before buying. You will also need to pay for the installation, unless this is something you can do yourself.

Passive or Active Voice

There are either passive or active car alarms. Passive alarms are immediately armed when you turn off the ignition and close all doors. With an active alarm, you turn the system on or off with a transmitter button. Ask your insurance company about a reduction on your automobile coverage if you install either one of these types of alarms.

Alarming Situations

The alarms will sound at different times depending on the model. With the door sensor, the alarm will automatically go off if the door, trunk or hood is opened. Similarly, a window sensor goes off when the window is shattered. A shock sensor will set off the alarm if the car is moved, and a pressure sensor goes off when the internal air pressure changes if a door or window is opened. The tilt sensor alarm will sound if the thieves try to tow your vehicle. Many of today's alarms combine several of these features to maximize protection.

Alarm Specials

If you live in an area where alarms sound all the time, purchase an alarm that allows you to program usage. One alarm, for example, ignores input when it has gone off three or more times in an hour, unless you reset it. In some locations, car alarms go off so frequently that they are completely ignored. New York City police officers say that these automobile alarms increase crime: Because everyone ignores the alarms, it makes thieves believe no one is paying attention to criminal acts in that area. Many car manufacturers are now installing silent immobilizers or vehicle tracking systems that police can use to find a stolen vehicle. In some cases, a car owner can receive a message or be paged when someone tampers with his car.

References

• Types of car alarms
• Car alarm types
• About car alarms