 | Richard Smith has been in the Auto Body Industry for 26 years. He is ASE Certified Master Collision Tech, an I-Car Platinum Tech, and an I-Car Instructor. He and His wife own and operate Sharp's Auto Body & Collision Inc. located at 202 North Elm St. in Pittsburg, Kansas. He is a father of 5 children, Ex Military E-6 Staff SGT. and is active in his home Church. The one thing he enjoys doing is educating the public about the safety and proper repair of automobiles, no matter if it is a vehicle that has been in a collision, a small dent, or a complete restoration. The shop is always equipped with a skilled professional to handle your auto needs. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2011-11-21 09:58:14
Preventing vehicle theft - series - part 2 Types of anti-theft devices
Q: I heard that vehicle theft is on the rise in some areas. I’ve had my cars stolen a couple of times in the past and want to prevent it from happening again. Do you have any suggestions on theft prevention?
A: Last month, we discussed some ways you can prevent your car from being stolen through changes in behavior. This month I will cover different types of devices available and how you can implement them.
When shopping for an anti-theft device, it is important to realize that no system can guarantee your vehicle will not be stolen. In fact, for every anti-theft system, there is an alternate system to undo them. Most of these were created for legitimate use by tow companies and auto recovery companies but are available for purchase on the internet or elsewhere.
Next, there are two different types to consider: preventative devices and recovery devices. Preventative devices help to deter thieves from targeting your vehicle and include:
• Locks for the steering wheel, gas
or brake pedal, gearshift, hood, or
wheels
• Car alarms to draw attention
• Steering column collar
• Theft protection decals and other
visible deterrents
• Engine Immobilizer which will
not allow the vehicle to be started
without first receiving the correct
signal from the person starting
the vehicle.
Recovery devices can be used in case your vehicle is stolen. They can help to increase the chances of getting your vehicle back after it has been taken. The following products are common recovery devices:
• Tracking devices
• Kill switches
• VIN etching
Most anti-theft devices are available quite affordably and it is best to combine one or more preventative devices with one or more recovery devices. With this method, your car is both protected from theft attempts and also has a higher likelihood of being recovered if a thief is successful. Since no anti-theft device is theft proof, it is important to also be covered by comprehensive auto insurance so that you can be compensated if your vehicle is ever stolen and not recovered.
