Auto Trader

Alarms and immobilisers are probably the most effective way of securing your car. Most new cars are supplied with an alarm and immobiliser, although these can always be upgraded.

Unfortunately, older cars seldom had them fitted as standard and often owners have not seen the need to fit any form of security. It is these vehicles that are most at risk.

In short, alarms draw attention to anyone attempting to break into or steal a car. There are various models available, from those that detect when a door is opened or detect motion within the vehicle, to those that feature shock sensors which are activated if someone hits the car. There are even alarms specifically for convertibles.

Immobilisers, as their name suggests, render the vehicle undriveable, either by physically breaking the ignition circuit or by linking in with the engine computer. Many cars have immobilisers without the owner knowing about it as they are switched on and off by a chip in the ignition key. Usually standalone aftermarket immobilisers have to be deactivated manually, but most integrated alarm/immobiliser systems work in conjunction.

Remember, alarms and immobilisers need to be fitted by an improved installer to gain Thatcham approval.