All you need to know about Car Anti-Theft Systems

Almost all car owners know about car anti-theft systems these days. We usually confuse them with car alarms and central locking systems, and this is where most of us are wrong. These systems are not limited to alarms or locking systems, they are much more than that.

Alarm systems and central locking systems are just types of security systems for vehicles, there are many other systems that come under this vast umbrella and this article will give you an overview of them all.

Alarm Systems

This system is one of the most common and perhaps the cheapest car anti-theft systems on the market. Most new vehicles have these systems factory installed. These systems are very good at attracting attention in the event of theft or if someone tries to mess with your car. Alarms can deter amateur thieves but they don’t stand much of a change against professionals.  On top of that, they are are fairly easy to disable. 

Vehicle Immobilizers

Once offered by only luxury brands, immobilizer devices have become a common and often necessary feature in modern cars regardless of the price tag. Immobilizers prevent a vehicle from starting unless an authorized key is present.  Some experts label them the most effective of all car security systems.

Central locking systems

Central locking systems take security one step further. A professionally installed aftermarket locking system will be a good investment. These car anti-theft systems lock all the vehicle’s doors at the push of a button on a remote, also known as a key fob.

Most systems integrate alarms, keyless entry, and vibration sensors to offer the best value for your money.  

GPS Tracking systems

Trackers use a GPS tracker, installed in a vehicle, paired with a transmitting device to communicate with the tracker company. This technology is usually used to recover stolen vehicles. New systems also offer car owners the feature to track their cars using smartphone applications.  New smartphone trackers use free services such as Google maps to pinpoint a car’s location in real-time.

Your best bet, with all the options out there, would be to go for a layered approach. If your car comes with a factory installed alarm system, install a GPS tracker or a central locking system. Keep in mind that none of these systems are 100 percent fool proof and it is a good idea to consult an expert when it comes to car anti-theft systems.