Steering wheel locks have been a popular anti-theft device for car owners for many years. However, car thieves are learning new ways to manoeuvre steering wheel locks quickly. That’s why it is essential to consider additional anti-theft safety devices to protect your car from potential theft.
If steering wheel locks are not your thing, here are four alternatives to steering wheel locks: car alarms, car immobilizers, car tracking systems, and wheel boots/clamps.
- Car Alarms Systems
Car alarms are one of the most common anti-theft devices for cars. According to Warrantywise, “Today’s car alarms are made up of a computer, a receiver that responds to your key code, a loudspeaker, and several different sensors.”
How do car alarms operate? They work by detecting any unauthorized entry or movement of the car and then producing a loud sound or alert to scare off the thief. Car alarms can also come with additional features like flashing lights or disabling the engine.
A major strength of car alarms is that they are highly effective as stare-away thieves because they draw attention to the vehicle and make it less attractive to thieves. They are also relatively affordable and easy to install.
A major issue with them is that they can be triggered by accidental movements or even strong winds, causing false alarms that can be annoying and inconvenient. Experienced thieves can also disable them.
- The Car Immobilizer
A car immobilizer is an electronic device that prevents the car from starting unless a specific code or key is used. How does this device work? It functions by interrupting the power supply to the engine control unit, preventing the car from starting even if the ignition key is turned.
A good advantage of car immobilizers is that they prevent the car from being stolen, even if the thief has managed to access the vehicle. They are also easy to use and can be installed by a professional.
However, the downside is that they can be expensive to install, and some models may require additional keys or codes, which can be inconvenient.
- A Car Tracking System
A car tracking system is a GPS-enabled device that allows you to track your vehicle’s location in real-time. It shares the car’s location with a remote server, which can be accessed through an app.
A good reason to get a car tracking system is that it allows you to monitor the vehicle’s location, even if it has been stolen. They are also relatively affordable. Parents can even watch their teenage children driving using GPS tracking.
However, car tracking systems may require a subscription fee for the tracking service, which can be costly over time. They also need a reliable internet connection to work correctly.
- A Wheel Boot or Clamp
A wheel boot or clamp is a physical device that immobilizes the car by locking the wheel in place. Law enforcement typically uses them to immobilize illegally parked or abandoned vehicles. However, car owners can also purchase them as an additional security measure.
A good thing about wheel boots or clamps is that they prevent your vehicle from being moved or driven away. They are also visible and can act as a deterrent to potential thieves.
But wheel boots or clamps can be time-consuming and inconvenient to remove, especially if you forget the combination or key. They can also damage the wheel if not properly installed or removed.
Conclusion
These are some of the major alternative accessories to steering wheel locks that you can consider. Each device has its strengths and flaws. But, using a combination of these devices can significantly increase the chances of preventing theft and recovering your stolen car. As a car owner, safety should always be at the forefront of your mind.
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