Car Alarms, Do We Really Need Them?
Car alarms have been around for a long time, more than 25 years, but do we really need them anymore? They were developed to combat the high number of auto thefts and break-ins in North America and elsewhere, but the fact is they just aren't very effective. Studies have shown that there is little to no reduction in car thefts of cars with alarms compared to cars without alarms.
The alarms are often triggered by accident. The sensors are sensitive and can be triggered by things like vibration from passing vehicles, animals, getting bumped by people passing by, etc. The sound is heard so often that most people don't pay attention anymore and find the sound an annoying intrusion. Also, most car thefts and break-ins happen very quickly, such as smash and grab thefts. The professional thieves will ignore the alarm and can even disarm it.
So why do many people still use a car alarm? Some people feel a false sense of security in having one. They may not realize that there are better options available. Some people just like to show off their car by drawing attention to it. Some people want the small reduction in their insurance rates. Most insurance companies will give a discount for any type of security system, it doesn't have to be an audible alarm.
There are also some individuals and groups that would like to see car alarms banned because of the noise pollution that they cause. Some cities are considering bans or fines for these noisy alarms. In some places, like NYC, there is a three minute rule. Car alarms are not supposed to go off for more than three minutes before automatically shutting off. However, it is very hard to enforce such a rule.
Here are some better alternatives available to keep your vehicle safe:
- Passive Immobilizer: The most effective alternative is the passive immobilizer. This is an electronic device that prevents the engine from running unless the correct key is used. Many vehicles are already being manufactured with these devices. This device has cause a dramatic reduction in car thefts since it was introduced. A vehicle with this system cannot be hot wired. The only way a thief could steal the vehicle is by having it towed.
- Locks: If your vehicle does not have an immobilizer, the cheapest security devices you can buy are steering wheel locks and brake pedal locks. These devices provide a visual deterrent as well as slowing down the would be thief. The thief would have to saw through the steering wheel or break pedal in order to get the locks off.
- Silent Alarm: A silent alarm with a pager is an alternative to the noise making car alarm. The pager alerts the owner that a sensor has been triggered, without a noisy alarm going off.
- GPS: A GPS vehicle tracking system can recover the vehicle after it has been stolen, often the thief is caught as well. It is for recovery only and will not prevent the vehicle from being stolen.
In addition to these security systems, it is also a good idea to park in visible and well lit areas and to keep you car parked in a secure garage at night. Keep your car doors locked at all times and don't leave valuables in a visible place, put them in the trunk or glove compartment instead. Of course, bad neighborhoods should also be avoided.
Published on Wedsneday, October 22, 2008 - Email to a friend
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