Auto Security

[Rotor]

I'm looking for a security system that doesn't allow the engine to start without a pass code. I'm not interested in anything with a key or a hidden switch. I found a system at www.asianwolf.com that works like what I have in mind, but it only costs $18.00. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to spend a lot of money. But, something that inexpensive makes me wonder how durable and reliable it is. What happens if the thief just cuts the wires?

I've searched the web but haven't found what I need. Does anyone have any knowledge or experience with that particular device? Can anyone make a recommendation for something else?

I'd appreciate it.

[Mike]

Wow! I was about to post this very question, but perhaps for a different reason. My dad recently was told that, due to medical reasons, he could no longer drive. He's more than unhappy about this and I fear that he'll try to do so. Nonetheless, it would be good for his caretaker to have access to his vehicle.

 

I'll be watching this thread.

[upflying]

Are you are interested in the prevention of auto theft or protecting the contents of your car?

The only fool proof method of prevention is keeping your car in a garage.

Most if not all modern vehicles have a chip embedded in the key which must match a receiver in the ignition switch keyway. An aftermarket device may be redundant and/or create conflicts in the PCM/BCM which controls all vehicle systems.

I would not recommend adding or splicing anything aftermaket sourced in a computer controlled vehicle.

I prefer physical deternets to theft such as the Club or the Denver Boot, similar to this..

http://www.tirelock.com/

I don't know what kind of car you have but auto theft rates have been declining as the complexity and security of modern vehicles increases.

For many years, the most common stolen vehicles were the late '80's to mid '90's Asian imports. As their numbers decrease, so does the auto theft problem.

Thieves need keys to steal today's cars, so don't let your car warm up in the driveway and watch your surroundings for suspicious activity when filling with gas and stopped at traffic lights.

If it is stolen, tracking systems such as OnStar and other GPS based systems guarantee a quick recovery.

I recently arrested a couple of car thieves. Among the items in their possession were a collection ignition keys and their remotes for other vehicles. Basically what they do is cruise parking lots, and hit the remotes. When they find a car that blinks or honks, they know the key will fit.

[Joe Frickin' Friday]

The only fool proof method of prevention is keeping your car in a garage.

 

Careful..."foolproof" is pretty strong. Unless your garage is Cheyenne Mountain, I'd hesitate to use that word.

 

I prefer physical deternets to theft such as the Club or the Denver Boot, similar to this..

http://www.tirelock.com/

 

The boot - although a PITA - might be pretty good, as long as a thief isn't given much time or seclusion to work on it. For reference, I once got through a Kryptonite bicycle U-lock in about three minutes using a Dremel tool.

 

The Club? May be tough as nails itself, but the steering wheel is not.

 

Thieves need keys to steal today's cars...

 

...or a tow truck. Stealing inoperable cars can still be profitable, if you chop them up and sell the parts. Not as likely on budget cars like a Civic, but then again, budget cars are also less likely to have snappy security systems (like chipped keys) that deter drive-away theft.

 

To the OP: Why the opposition to a hidden switch?

[tallman]

1995 Civic number one stolen car

 

Biometric locks

no experience but it would seem that this could provide peace of mind.

 

Not $18

[Rotor]

Mitch,

It's a personal issue at home. I don't want a tangible object that can be used - like another key or switch.

 

Thanks for the reply's guys.