Automobile theft is a pressing issue in our society, with new cars and SUVs being stolen at a staggering rate of almost two every minute across the United States. In the face of such a prevalent problem, it’s crucial to understand the difference between factory-installed anti-theft systems and aftermarket car alarms. Many vehicle owners are under the misconception that factory-installed systems provide sufficient security, but the reality is far from it. Let’s delve into the disparities between these two options to help you make an informed decision about your vehicle’s security.
What Is a Factory-Installed Anti-Theft System?
It’s important to note that the anti-theft or theft-deterrent system that comes with new vehicles is primarily designed to prevent the vehicle from being stolen. This is a stark contrast to an aftermarket car alarm, which deters theft and monitors the vehicle for impacts, motion, tilting or glass breakage. For instance, a thief could easily break the window of a new car and steal any items left in the back seat without triggering the factory-installed system. This highlights the need for additional security measures.
Most anti-theft systems use a transponder chip built into the key or key fob for authentication, then allow the vehicle to start. Some transponder systems use complex algorithms that are very difficult to replicate. However, simple processes like a relay attack enable thieves to use the key or fob inside your home to start your vehicle. Check out this article to learn what a relay attack is and how to prevent it from happening.
In short, don’t think of the factory-installed anti-theft or theft-deterrent system as though it were a full-blown car alarm.
Aftermarket Security Systems
Aftermarket car alarms and security systems offer a significant upgrade in security over factory-installed solutions. One key feature is the security sensor, which actively monitors the vehicle for impacts or damage. The alarm will be triggered if someone accidentally bumps into your car in a parking lot. If a window is smashed and a door is opened, the alarm will sound, alerting you and potentially deterring the thief. The alarm will go off if someone is under the vehicle trying to cut off a catalytic converter.
While a wailing siren is annoying, it’s sometimes not enough to dissuade a determined thief. Two-way remote technology is a second feature available from all reputable car alarm manufacturers. A one-way remote sends a command to your vehicle to lock, unlock or pop the trunk. This is likely what came with your vehicle. An aftermarket two-way remote will let you know when the vehicle has locked by displaying information on a small LCD screen, flashing an LED and beeping. Many of these two-way remotes can also act as a pager if your car alarm is triggered. Now, you can look out the window to see whether someone is tampering with your vehicle and notify local law enforcement if necessary. To be clear, not all two-way remotes include security notifications. This is something you should ask for when designing your vehicle protection system.
Now, if your aftermarket security system is integrated with your vehicle correctly, even if the thieves have relayed the authentication information from your key, the vehicle still won’t start. However, you will want to confirm that this is the case before you purchase the security system. Not all mobile enhancement retailers integrate these systems this way. Make sure yours does. To test this, arm the security system while in the vehicle. Then, attempt to start the engine or turn the vehicle on. If it starts, it’s not wired in a way that will provide maximum protection against vehicle theft. Consult with the shop that performed the installation immediately.
Car Theft Patterns and GPS Tracking
It’s very common for police to track a stolen vehicle to a location like an arena or shopping plaza near where the vehicle was taken. Thieves leave vehicles in these locations for a day or two to ensure they aren’t being tracked. If the car, truck or SUV is still there a few days later, the thieves return to pick it up and either part it out or ship it overseas. Many stolen vehicles are returned in just a day or two, thanks to vehicle tracking solutions. It should come as no surprise that GPS and cellular-based systems like the Drone, SmartStart and MyCar are wise investments if you are concerned about keeping your vehicle safe.
When choosing a vehicle tracking system, make sure tha it has towing and geofence warning capabilities. This feature will send an alert if the vehicle moves without the alarm being disarmed or if it leaves a specific area. Also, the tracking solution should integrate with an aftermarket security sensor to let you know if there has been an impact or the car is being jacked up to steal wheels or a catalytic converter.
Questions To Ask When Buying an Aftermarket Car Alarm
If you’re concerned about someone stealing your vehicle, you want to integrate an aftermarket security system. As with any aftermarket vehicle upgrade, you’ll want a list of questions to ask the mobile enhancement retailers you visit. Here are a few suggestions.
- Can the vehicle be started with the factory key when the alarm is still armed?
- Does the security sensor include impact, motion and tilt detection?
- Do the two-way remotes provide security alerts?
- What’s the real-world range of the two-way remotes?
- Does the tracking system integrate with the security sensor?
- Does the tracking system offer tow or location-based alerts?
Combine the above suggestions with the usual questions about vehicle protection while in the shop (seat covers, steering wheel covers and battery charger) and inquiries about the product warranty and operating cost. If you get satisfactory answers to all your questions, and the shop has an excellent reputation, then you can proceed with scheduling the installation. Don’t ever feel pressured into buying something. Take your time, do your research and choose the best option, even if it means traveling to the next city to get the work done.
