Car security

Aftermarket alarm systems starts with a basic intruder detection and siren alarm to one which can send you a text message if your vehicle is stolen and allows you to track the exact location using GPS as well as an option to send commands via mobile phone to immobilise the vehicle, lock doors smoke screens or any other programmable actions.

A good quality basic car alarm system should include an immobiliser if you do not have one already fitted and an output to the central locking system so when you arm the alarm from the alarm remote all the doors will lock. Some car alarm systems can make use of you existing central locking remote control so that when you use your exiting remote to lock up a signal is sent to the alarm to arm it and disarm when the doors are unlocked.

Moving up from a basic security system a Thatcham car alarm system is approved by the UK motor insurance industry so fitting one could pay for itself if you consider the saving made on your car insurance. All Thatcham car alarm systems should be fitted by a qualified installer who will issue a Thatcham certificate on completion which should be presented to the motor insurer.

You can add a radio control or text message pager to an existing car alarm system which lets you know if the vehicle has been broken into or driven off, a radio pager usually has a guarantee range of at least one mile but could work further out but a mobile phone will let you know about your vehicle anywhere. Other accessories that can be added to car alarm systems include; tilt and motion sensor, glass break detector, dual zone pre warning bleep, automatic window closure and more.