Car Alarm Buyer’s Guide

You wouldn’t buy a car without first being sure it met your needs. A mini cooper won’t pull a trailer and a pick-up isn’t as easy to navigate or park in a city as a mini cooper. When shopping for a vehicle, you try to match your lifestyle to a car. Similarly, when buying a car alarm system, you should match the system to your lifestyle. Here is a list of things to consider:

1. Do you leave your windows open, cargo in the back of your truck or the top down on your convertible? If so a motion sensor would be a good idea. If anyone reaches into your car or the back of your truck, the alarm will be triggered.
2. Do you often have to enter your car in the dark? A system that only unlocks the driver’s side door and lights up the interior of your car would be ideal. This will allow you to see inside your car and keep anyone from sneaking in through another door.
3. Are you away from your car for long periods of time? If your car alarm was to go off, would you know? You may want to consider using a wireless car security system. This type of system will send alerts directly to you if your car is tampered with.
4. What are the crime rates in your area? A standard security system may not be enough to deter thieves. Glass-break sensors, steering wheel locks and tire boots are all options to enhance your security and discourage thieves.
5. Where do you park your car the most? Do you park next to sidewalks or other vehicles? Perimeter security might be the best option to match your needs. With a perimeter security system, you can adjust how close objects or people can get to your car before the alarm is triggered.
6. Would a thief be after just parts of your car? If this is the case, they can simply lift your car and tow it away. A car alarm that detects motion would prevent thieves from making a silent getaway.
7. Is the car alarm user friendly?
8. If you can not afford to have a professional install the security system, is it simple enough for you to install it yourself?
9. How expensive is the car alarm? Is it a reasonable price that matches the value of your car?
10. Do you need a car alarm? If you have an expensive stereo system, the answer will be yes. Also research your car to see if it is one of the top stolen cars.