The safety of your vehicle is as crucial as the safety of your businesses and homes. Many thieves today are well-trained to steal cars. So, in this age of technology, it is essential to secure your belongings, including your car. Setting up a car alarm system is one effective way to enhance the security of your vehicle.
A car theft alarm might seem like a small gadget. Still, it is very efficient in alerting you about suspicious activity with your vehicle. By setting up this safety measure, you can keep thieves at bay.
On that note, below we're going to discuss why you should invest in this vehicle security system by delving into the top 7 benefits, so let's get started.
What is a Car Alarm?
A car alarm is an electronic security system designed to reduce the risk of car theft. When triggered, it typically sets off a loud siren and flashes the headlights to attract attention and scare off potential thieves. Some car alarms offer more advanced features like engine immobilization, which prevents the car from starting even if someone breaks in. Newer models may even have GPS tracking capabilities, allowing you to locate your stolen vehicle.
How Does a Car Alarm Work?
Car alarms are mostly located inside the car to protect vehicles from theft and break-ins. The system comes with sensors that can detect any tampering with your car or its components. For instance, they'll detect if someone is messing with your door lock or trying to break a window.
Therefore, when a criminal tries to access a vehicle, the alarm triggers a loud sound, alerting the owner and security guards in real time, raising the chances of catching the criminal and preventing theft. It's also a great deterrent to any potential thief, making it almost impossible for them to break into your car without being noticed.
Different Types of Car Alarms
There are several types of anti-theft alarm systems for cars available in the market, however below are the most popular modern-day car alarm systems:
1. Passive Alarm
The passive alarm system is the most common solution for drivers. It activates automatically once the car key is removed from the engine and the car doors are locked.
2. Active Car Alarms
Active auto security systems are the opposite of passive alarms; users must switch on these systems. Once the user locks the vehicle, an additional alarm system must be activated. It gives the user more control than the passive alarms.
3. Tracker
If your motor is stolen, the tracking system in the car can help the authorities and the owner track the car's location using GPS. It is less expected and widely used but will be more common shortly. The vehicle can be tracked online or via a message sent to their registered device.
4. Immobiliser
The car is immobilized if something other than the key is placed into the system. It usually activates the emergency lights or locks the steering wheel.
5. Audible Alarm
With this type of car security system, your car's lighting system will be activated. The alarm will also sound the vehicle's horn constantly until stopped by the owner. This is one of the most common types of security systems on the market today.
6. Silent Alarm
If the silent alarm is activated, it sends a message to the car owner, allowing them to notify the authorities. It is quiet to everyone except the owner.
Also Read: How Car Key Replacement Services Can Help
What are the benefits of Installing a Car Alarm?
Installing a vehicle alarm system can offer many advantages to car owners. Here are some primary ones:
1. Car Alarm Prevents theft
One of the main advantages of using a car alarm system is that it prevents car theft. We all know that criminals always look for easy targets. If they know a car is equipped with an alarm system, they are highly likely to pass it. Second, if criminals try to break in, the loud siren will scare them away and alert anyone nearby.
Moreover, modern alarm systems include motion sensors and GPS tracking. In case a car gets stolen, you can track it through a special app. Therefore, by installing an alarm system, you can be confident that your car has an extra layer of security that can be really useful in protecting it from theft.
2. Protect Your Belongings
Even though your car might not be a high-end model, it may still be attractive to thieves because of its content. Valuable belongings like electronic gadgets (i.e., phones, laptops) are good catches for thieves. However, a car theft alarm can deter burglars and protect your belongings. The loud siren and flashing lights will draw attention to any attempted theft and simplify catching a criminal red-handed.
3. Can Track Your Car
Even if something unfortunate happens and a thief manages to steal your car, you still don’t need to panic because they won’t get far. As discussed earlier, car alarm solutions often have advanced tracking gestures, like GPS technology which makes it easier for law enforcement to recover the stolen car. The tracking functionalities can also be integrated with mobile devices and allow you to monitor your car’s location and receive alerts if suspicious activity occurs.
4. Comes with immobilization Features
Many modern types of alarms come with an immobilization feature which is the next benefit on our list. It utilizes the most advanced technology to give the car owner remote access to turn off the engine and prevent the car from starting if any suspicious activity happens. Thus, the old hot-wiring thieves' trick is useless with this approach to car security. Additionally, the immobilizer functions can be connected to mobile devices and allow you to remotely monitor the car's location.
5. Provide peace of mind
A car anti-theft alarm system is more than just a security device. It offers peace of mind on the road or away from your car. Knowing your vehicle is protected will lower your stress of potential break-ins and thefts.
With features like remote immobilization, real-time monitoring, and automatic alerts, as a car owner, you are always updated that your car is safe and secure. So, whether you own a reliable family vehicle or a high-end car, an alarm system for the car may be a wise investment to pay off in safety and peace of mind.
6. Has an insurance advantage
When calculating insurance value, many companies consider many factors, such as the age and model of your car, your driving history, etc. However, security is also a major part of this process. To benefit from potential discounts on your policy, present a document that proves the installation of your car touch alarm system and inform your insurer. Investing in a high-quality car security alarm system may be a wise way to protect your vehicle and save money on your insurance tips.
7. Increase Vehicle Resale Value
Suppose you are planning on selling your car. In that case, it is worth having a high-quality vehicle alarm system installed, as this will help raise the selling price of the motor. Many buyers will pay extra for a motor with an alarm system. The buyer will also feel more confident purchasing from you and leaving the vehicle in a public place.
Next Read: The Ultimate Guide for Handling Auto Lockouts
Conclusion
A car alarm system is a valuable device that provides peace of mind and protects your car. Moreover, insurance companies recognize the extended security and, in most cases, offer discounts to policyholders with car alarms.
So, invest in a quality system to protect your car and wallet with a simple yet effective solution! If you need professional assistance or still have any questions, feel free to get in touch with us! Keyency will gladly help you with all locksmith and security matters!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is it worth installing a car alarm?
Ans. Car alarms can deter theft attempts by drawing attention and making your car a less appealing target. However, they aren't foolproof and can sometimes be annoying with false alarms. Consider your car's value, your area's crime rates, and if your car already has an immobilizer before deciding.
Q. What are the disadvantages of a car alarm system?
Ans. False alarms can be disruptive to you and your neighbors. Some alarms can be easily deactivated by experienced thieves. They also add to the cost of your car and might drain your battery if not properly maintained.
Q. Which car alarm is best?
Ans. There's no single "best" alarm, as it depends on your car and needs. It’s best to look for a car alarm that has features like shock and door sensors, remote start compatibility, and reliability.
Q. Do modern cars have car alarms?
Ans. Most modern cars come equipped with factory-installed security systems that include alarm features. These systems often integrate with the car's immobilizer for better security.