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| | | A basic car alarm has one or more sensors attached to a siren. Most modern car alarms have various sensors, a distinctive siren, a radio receiver for remote control, an extra battery so the alarm works even if the car does not, and a small computer control unit that is the system's "brain." | | |
| Typical costs: | - Starting prices for basic car alarms are $50 -$250 for a siren attached to the vehicle's existing wiring system, one or two remote controls and a simple controller/brain; those at the higher end of this price range may have a back-up battery and/or a few more sensors than the lower-priced alarms..
- More advanced vehicle security systems run $300 -$850 or more, providing a greater number and more varied range of types of sensors, a sophisticated computer controller and options such as a camera or a remote ignition starter. Many of these security systems can be wired to disable the ignition starter or cut off the gas supply if an intruder is detected.
- Installation starts around $50 -$200 for an extremely basic alarm in a car with easy access to the dash and wiring, but can run $250 -$450 or more to install a complex security system in a car with limited or difficult access inside the dash.
- Total costs will depend a great deal on the alarm system chosen (the more complex it is, the more difficult it is to install) and the make, model and year of the vehicle. As a general rule any type of labor costs more on a luxury, high-end vehicle than on a lower-priced standard sedan.
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| What should be included: | - An alarm system can use various types of devices; these include open/close switches on the hood/trunk/doors; pressure sensors; and motion/tilt detectors. The more complex the alarm system, the more ways it can detect an intruder--and the more difficult it is to install. An installer needs to make secure connections to the proper wires so that all the system's features function correctly. Improper installation can make it easy for thieves to disable the system.
- Installing a car alarm requires basic electronics knowledge, the right tools (good crimpers and strippers, a soldering iron, a drill and bits, a voltmeter, etc.), the ability to correctly take apart and reassemble the vehicle's dash, the patience to exactly follow detailed instructions while in uncomfortable positions in tight spaces, and the proper wiring schematic for the vehicle. An advanced security system requires intensive wiring and must be properly integrated with the vehicle's entire electrical system.
- For determined do-it-yourselfers, Crutchfield.com gives a basic overview, BulldogSecurity.com offers wiring diagrams organized by car manufacturers and AutoToys.com lists wire color codes. Starting at $39.95 the video "Remote Starter and Car Alarm Installation" shows a step-by-step how-to.
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| Shopping for car alarm installation: | - To view car alarms and security systems, visit Circuit City (installation services available), Shopzilla.com or Nextag.com.
- Ask friends and co-workers for installation experiences and recommendations. The shop should post all its policies (labor rates, guarantees, payment methods, etc.); ask if they specialize in your particular type of vehicle; look for certificates of advanced course work or other training. Check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
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Article updated October 2007 |
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