Car Alarm Comparisons
One of the major categories of aftermarket car systems is a security alarm. For drivers who own expensive sports cars, have a custom aftermarket stereo or park in a dangerous neighborhood, the possibility of theft can make an alarm a wise investment. There are several things to consider when comparing alarms.
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Types
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Most car alarms fall into one of two main categories: passive and active alarms. Passive car alarms set themselves automatically, once the ignition is turned off and all of the doors are closed. Active alarms require additional action on the part of the driver, usually through pressing a button on a remote control to set the alarm after exiting the car.
Some high-quality car alarms feature passive and active modes. The driver can program the alarm to either setting depending on her driving habits and level of security risk.
Function
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Drivers should choose car alarms that function in a way that fits well with the type of vehicle. Some basic alarms use the door handles and windows as triggers, meaning that a thief must disturb the door to set off the alarm. Other alarms use motion sensors as triggers. This type of alarm is best for drivers who want to protect a convertible where the doors and windows are not the only entry points for a thief. Motion sensors are also better protection against vandalism, which can occur even if the vandals do not enter the car.
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Features
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Car alarms come at a variety of price points and many different features. Besides activating the vehicle's horn, some alarms use additional air horns to attract attention. Other systems feature a light alarm, which turns on the interior dome light or flashes the headlights and taillights. Another common alarm feature is re-arming, which means the alarm will reset itself if it is deactivated but the driver does not open any door for a period of time. Finally, some alarms feature an emergency disarm switch, which is hidden somewhere on the car and allows the driver to disarm the alarm in case of an emergency or malfunction.
Advantages
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Different types of car alarms offer different advantages. Every alarm offers added security, and many auto insurance companies offer discounted insurance rates for cars that are equipped with passive alarm systems. This may not be true of alarms that only use an active arming process. In addition, some car alarms include convenience features like remote door locking or remote starting. Car alarms also add to the resale value of a vehicle, provided they are kept in good working order.
Alternatives
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Drivers wishing to secure their vehicles should also consider some alternative security systems. Vehicle immobilizers sometimes come packaged with alarms, or on their own. These systems prevent a thief from hot-wiring the car, usually by placing a computer chip in the driver's key that must be present for the ignition to activate.
Another alternative is a vehicle tracking system, which uses a hidden satellite transceiver to mark the location of the vehicle. Unless a thief finds and removes the transceiver, the manufacturer of the tracking system can use satellites to locate the car and provide this information to local police.
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References
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- Photo Credit the black sports car. image by Yuri Bizgaimer from Fotolia.com
