Car Security And Systems In The UK
The Car Security System, Alarms And Immobilisers
Does the manufacturer of your new or used car provide insurance cover that may be cheaper than a standard quote?
Anyone who owns a car has
either experienced car crime or knows someone who has. Quite apart from
any financial losses incurred nothing can prevent the shock, distress
and inconvenience caused to the victim.
Get
a Car Security Quote from Direct Car Parts
and choose from a wide range of security devices and accessories
for
your
car.
What can be done?
Well, below are some simple precautions that may help to improve car
security.
For cars without a security system or alarm installed
Whether the car is left in a car park or the drive at home, consider these simple car security measures.
Remove the ignition key, lock all doors and ensure windows and sunroofs are closed.
If possible try to place all belongings including mobile phones out of sight. Consider storing items in the boot or under car seats. If the boot space is visible, e.g. a people carrier, use a blanket or sheet to cover the items concerned.
Some cars will have a cover fitted to hide the car radio system. This is a useful precaution that is often forgotten.
At night, unless the car is parked in a locked garage, consider parking the car in a well-lit area.
Most paying public car parks will advise car owners never to leave the car park ticket in the car. This is sensible advice and may deter would be car thieves.
If your car does not already have a car alarm, immobiliser
or tracking device fitted, please read our helpful guide on car security
systems.
What are car alarms?
These are devices that are highly visible and usually audible. Generally
they work with switches that detect the opening of doors, boot or
bonnet,
and possibly by use of infra-red or ultrasonics to detect movement
inside the car. The presence of some devices is advertised through
the use
of small flashing lights mounted on the car dashboard and/or window
stickers. In the event that the car is broken into either the car
horn
or alarm will sound before the ignition is turned on. More sophisticated
car alarms will cause car lights to flash and disable the ignition
or
petrol pump. Investigate whether the car alarm is powered by a separate
battery as this prevents the car thief disconnecting car alarms that
operate on the main car battery.
What are immobilisers?
There are many types of immobiliser sold on the market, most of which can be categorised into two types; mechanical (do it yourself) and electrical. Mechanical devices disable the steering wheel, handbrake or gear-stick. They are relatively cheap to buy, highly visible, key operated and generally do not require expert fitting. Electric immobilisers disable the engine by switching off the ignition or the petrol pump thus preventing it starting. Some are operated by the use of a hidden switch inside the car or by infra-red remote control from a key ring supplied with the alarm.
What are tracking systems?
A tracker system is regarded as the most expensive car alarm system.
The tracker is a hidden device installed on a car and operates using
satellite global positioning technology to signal its location after
being triggered by being been stolen. Once the car security system
is
activated the Police are able to track the car to its exact position.
If you are unable to decide what is the best car security system for you the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre (MIRRC), also known as Thatcham, publishes a list of approved products and car security systems.
Please note. Always check with
your Insurance company whether any car security systems installed will
qualify for premium discounts.
Get a Car Security
Quote from
Direct Car Parts and choose from a wide range of
security devices and accessories for your car.
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