DIY Car Alarm
Many people consider car alarms the first line of defense against vehicle theft or vandalism. Although the exact steps in installing a car alarm will vary depending on the manufacturer, the model of the alarm system and the automobile, the general steps are the same. Most modern car alarm systems may be installed at home, using basic tools and minimal knowledge of vehicle electronics or wiring. Before you begin, refer to the documentation that came with your alarm system for any specific instructions on installation. Work in a well-lit area, with enough room on all sides of the vehicle.
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Instructions
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Unpack the alarm system and neatly organize all components included in the package on a level surface. Unpack the contents near your vehicle, to prevent misplacing components as you transfer them to the work area.
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Choose a spot to mount the siren under the hood. Locate a sturdy and well-grounded metal surface, with enough room to accommodate the siren, and some additional free space to maneuver and install it. In most vehicles, a metal fender or metallic plate should work. Do not place the siren adjacent to movable parts or areas that heat up rapidly.
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Mount the siren. You may have to drill the metal surface in order to screw the siren in place. Orientate the siren so that it faces the ground, otherwise it could collect water, rendering it incapable of producing noise.
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Mount the alarm. Choose a well-grounded, metallic surface for the alarm, making sure it is concealed from view, yet easily accessible to you. Use the manufacturer's screws or additional locking mechanisms---such as clips or hooks---to affix the alarm firmly to the metal surface. Make sure the alarm is held firmly in place and not exposed.
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Connect the alarm's power wire to the car battery. In some models, the wires in the alarm system are color-coded and may be easily identified; pick out the power wire by referring to the product documentation. Depending on the alarm system, you may hear a beep to indicate that the alarm has been properly connected to a 12 volt power source.
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Extend the alarm's antenna wire. Doing so will maximize the range of the car alarm. Pull the antenna wire from its free end, to make it as long and straight as possible. The antenna wire is usually color-coded and may be identified by referring to the product documentation.
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Install the LED (light emitting diode) indicator on the vehicle's cab. Place the LED on a high surface, making sure it can be seen clearly from all windows. If you do not have a mounting bracket included in your alarm system, drill a small hole in the dashboard panel to install the LED.
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Plug the wire from the LED to the alarm. You will have to run the wire through the firewall---the metal shield that separates an automobile's engine from its passenger compartment---in order to access the alarm. Once you connect the LED indicator cable to the alarm, the installation is complete.
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Tips & Warnings
Test the installation. If you do not hear an alarm, double-check the connections before calling the manufacturer's customer service for assistance.
References
- Photo Credit Shiny car with silver paint. Water drops on the hood. Car lamp. image by Christopher Meder from Fotolia.com
