An Overview of Car Security Alarm Kits

A car alarm security system can help deter thieves from damaging or stealing your vehicle. As the thieves have gotten smarter so have the alarm manufacturers.

Types of Systems

One of the most basic alarm systems is the door sensor. As long as the alarm has not been deactivated it will sound when the door is opened. A window sensor will sound the alarm should the window break. Shock sensors are activated if the vehicle experiences a large enough jolt or jiggle. Tilt sensors are used for those thieves that won't try to break into the vehicle but load it onto a tow truck. When the vehicle is titled enough, the alarm will sound. Pressure sensors measure if the pressure inside the car changed. If a door is opened or window is broken, the pressure sensor will activate the alarm.

Effectiveness

Not all alarms are effective at stopping thieves. Many times the alarm will go off falsely. Some alarm systems are just not smart enough to know the difference when a cat has jumped on the hood or the car is actually being stolen. New systems contain much more than just a siren or flashing lights. Vehicle immobilizers can stop the car from being hotwired. Should a change in the cars electrical system voltage occur, the car will not be able to start at all. Many systems also contain tracking devices. If the vehicle is stolen it can be located. Many manufacturers claim a 90 percent recovery rate of stolen vehicles when they have vehicle tracking in the system.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The main disadvantage of most systems is that they are not fool proof. Even a vehicle with a vehicle immobilizer can still be loaded onto a tow truck. Having a combination of several different sensors can provide the strongest protection for your vehicle. An alarm is loud and will draw attention to the vehicle, deterring those neighborhood teenagers or amateur thieves from messing with your car. The systems that are integrated into your car's computer and contain several different sensors offer the best protection. Ultimately what is best for your vehicle depends on where you live and park the vehicle.

Cost

A car alarm that only consists of a siren will be less expensive. Different models can be found for between $50 and $100. The more sensors and components included will increase the cost. Alarm kits that have several sensors and a computer controller can easily cost as much as $800. When looking at purchasing a system, remember that installation will add to the price. More complicated systems tend to cost more to install. When looking at alarms think about the total cost of the system and then the total cost of the car. A basic door alarm will not do much for a top of the line Lexus and a fully loaded advanced alarm system will be out of place on a 25 year old hunk of junk.