How to Shop for an Alarm System for an SUV

An SUV is a terrible thing to waste, and an alarm system on yours can stop thieves in the act, or even deter them from considering your SUV as a target. When weighed against the potential cost of a new SUV, a new alarm system seems a good investment.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• SUV

1. Determine how much you are willing and able to spend. Without a budget, your search will not be directed or focused, and may take more time than is necessary.

2. Think about how you use your SUV. If you leave the windows down frequently, you might want motion sensors. If you sometimes forget to lock your doors, you will want an engine immobilizer.

3. Ask around to get advice from local resources. Enquire with local auto dealers and police to find out which alarm systems are worth your money and which are not.

4. Contact your insurance company to see which systems (if any) they will offer lowered payments for installing.

5. Buy locally from a major car-alarm manufacturer if possible. This offers the two-fold benefit of proven reliability and ease of service should your alarm malfunction.

6. Purchase your alarm and have it installed. Having it installed professionally is your best bet.

Tips & Warnings

• If your car is usually parked in an unpopulated area, an audible alarm might not do any good. Consider a silent alarm or some other kind of anti-theft device such as an engine immobilizer or ignition-kill switch.
• Use common sense to protect your SUV even when you have an alarm. Always lock your doors; always have your keys with you; and never leave the vehicle running unattended.
• If your alarm includes a theft-tracking device (GPS or otherwise), make sure that it is functional in your geographic area.