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Protect Your Vehicle Investment

    Vehicle theft is a .common occurence in the Houston area, but there is a way to minimize the risk by having a theft-deterrent device installed in your car or truck.

    While no system is 100 percent secure, auto theft deterrent devices are effective in discouraging potential thieves.

     Since there are many different devices and dealers, it is important to select the system that best suits your needs from a dealer you can trust.

From Simple to Sophisticated

    Security systems range from relatively simple devices designed to discourage prospective thieves to sophisticated electronic security systems that increase your personal safety, the security of your vehicle and its contents.

    Among the simplest theft-deterrent devices are locks that fit over the steering wheel, steering column, throttle and brake pedal. These devices act as a physical deterrent to theft.

    Starter-kill devices prevent anyone from starting the vehicle until they are deactivated. They are usually controlled by the ignition key, a hidden switch, or a digital keypad.

     Generally more advanced security systems are classified into one of two categories: active or passive.

     Active systems allow you to set and arm the device yourself. These systems are typically less expensive, but are only effective if you remember to set and arm the system.

     Passive systems are automatically activated by a timer when you remove the key from the ignition and close the doors.

Detection Devices

    There are a variety of means available to detect tampering or entry, and many are built into one sensor.

    Shock, impact, or vibration sensors are designed to trigger the alarm when the car has been struck at any point of entry. Sophisticated sensors can even detect tampering with hub caps or hood ornaments. If you are considering this type of system, you should know that they can be extremely sensitive, thus making them prone to false alarms. Be sure the sensitivity of these devices is adjustable.

    There are also audio detectors designed to sense the breaking of glass, the sound of the lock being picked, or the sound of someone trying to “slim-jim” the door open.

    You can choose a system equipped with motion detectors which may sense attempts to tow or jack up a vehicle or rocking of the car. There are also ultrasonic or radar sensors. These sensors detect any movement inside the vehicle.    

Alarms

    Most systems emit an audible warning once the presence of an intruder has been detected. Some systems set off the emergency flashers, too. This adds to the impact of the sound and can help to identify a vehicle in a crowded parking lot.        

Finding A Reliable Dealer

    Reputable dealers will work with you to help you select the security system that suits your needs. Their experience and knowledge of the products available will be of great value to you during this process.

    Check with friends, neighbors, or business associates for recommendations. The BBB has a list of dealers that are participating in the Bureau’s Auto Alarm Industry Program. For a copy of this list, call the BBB at 713-868-9500.

    When comparing auto security dealers, consider the following questions:

• Does the store have a wide variety of products?
• Does the salesperson have a complete knowledge of the systems available?
• Does the salesperson ask you questions about your car to determine what you need?
• Does the dealer adequately explain the pricing of the system? How does the installation area look?
• Does the installation technician understand car mechanics and electronics? Does the technician understand the products the store sells and how to install them?
• Does the dealer have garage-keeper’s liability insurance, which protects your car while it is at the dealer’s facility?
• How long has the dealer been in business?

After The Installation

    Reputable dealers recognize the importance of maintaining quality in their procedures to ensure that new car warranties remain intact.

    When the work is finished, check the installation to see if it is clean. Are the wires hidden under the carpet and floor panels, and has the installer used ties to keep wiring looms out of the way of the vehicle’s moving parts? Also, are the connections crimped and soldered, with no tape around the connections?

Other Factors To Consider

    There has been some confusion regarding auto insurance discounts to vehicle owners who have auto alarms. While insurance discounts are available, don’t be lured by advertisements which state that the insurance discount will pay for the cost of the alarm.

    Substantial discounts may be available in the comprehensive portion of your insurance. Ask your insurance agent for details.

     Be wary of companies that have no fixed place of business. While they will install your alarm at your home or place of business, you may not be able to find them if you have a problem down the road. There are companies with fixed places of business that offer mobile service. If you are going to take advantage of mobile service, be sure to visit the company’s regular location.