Vehicle security

bradhays

Registered
Unfortunately it looks like I have some people in my new neighborhood paying a little too much attention to my auto and for the first time I'm feeling a need to add some security system(s) to old yeller. I think just a basic remote arm system would do, not interested at all in remote start or unlock. I'm not familiar with modern alarm systems, but here's what I 'think' I need...

- Door switches for all 5 doors (rear hatch). Probably a PITA to install but that's only an initial idea.
- 'Bump' alarm (not sure what it would be called) for if a window breaks or if something is jarred
- Geo-location function like a low track or something similar

Additionally I'd like to install possibly 2 start kill switches. I'm not sure where inline these are normally installed but my impression is that directly in line with the key ignition switch would be common. But then what if someone jumps the starter with a screwdriver...would this type of switch work in that instance? So that leads me to the idea of a second ignition kill switch which would either be wired between the battery and starter motor, or between the starter motor and ground.

And last...security lugs.

So am I over thinking this here? What's your recommendation for what I really need and maybe a good but economic alarm system that can get this done?
 
Honestly, a good insurance policy, GPS tracker and a camera pointed at it would be best. Alarms don't really deter anyone and just end up upsetting the neighbors.
 
Eric has a good point about the cameras.

I've got a set of Amazon's "Blink" cameras. They're wireless, and run a long time on a pair of AA batteries. Even if your car is street parked, you can likely get a camera pretty close to the car to record any shenanigans.

The GPS tracker is a good idea too, but you'll want to keep in mind that it will require at least basic cellular service. You'll be on the hook for a few $$/month. Generally as a 2nd line of service on your existing cell phone plan.

As for an immobilizer, I'd be tempted to find a sneaky location to wire in a switch. Disabling the fuel pump comes to mind as a good way to pull it off.
 
I can say from experience, vandalism is worse than theft. For that a good camera is what you need.

An easy anti-theft device is a simple hidden toggle switch. I used to have one in a vehicle hidden in the glovebox that simply disabled the ignition. You could crank it even with the key but it would not start. But in actuality, our cars have a passive anti-theft system that literally does the same.

If I had a collector vehicle of value, I would opt for something like this: Ravelco anti-theft device
 
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