Your Guide to the Different Types of Car Alarms

Car theft is on the rise, but you can increase your car's security by adding one of several car alarms. Learn about the different alarms available here.

Motor vehicle thefts have increased over the last few years. Keeping your vehicle safe and secure is something you need to consider. The car alarms you use can make the difference between waking up without your car or scaring away the thief.

Dealing with insurance companies and replacing your car is incredibly stressful. If you can avoid this hassle by installing a quality car alarm you'll not only be protecting your car, but other cars in the area. Chances are if your alarm goes off the thief will flee the scene of the crime instead of trying a different car.



There are various types of car alarms on the market, so it can be difficult to decide what type to go with. So, keep reading to find out more about basic car alarms and how to decide which one you should have installed.

Audible Alarm Systems

Audible alarms are the first thing people think of when you mention car alarms. Most vehicles have them preinstalled when you purchase them and have been used for many years. While this shows that these alarms are reliable there are also some cons to them.

Most people understand how these alarms work and how to arm them. These alarms are simple and all they need to do is sound the alarm when someone tries to break into your vehicle.

Unfortunately, many people ignore the sound of a car alarm as false alarms occur fairly frequently. Bumping into a parked car can trigger the alarm, so many people have started to tune the sound out. This is problematic as no one will go look when the alarm goes off unless they see something that makes them suspicious.

While the sound may scare off some thieves, you shouldn't solely rely on an audible car security system.

Silent Alarms

Silent alarms are a great option if you're looking for something that won't make your neighbors angry. These alarms don't make any noise when someone tries to break in, instead, the owner gets a notification of it.

This gives you a chance to see if something is actually happening or a false alarm before you act. Just remember to always be safe and call the police if you suspect your car is being broken into. Don't go outside to look as you risk injury or further damage by opening your doors.

Silent alarms are best when paired with another alarm type. While it's a great feature that you get notified about a break-in, if you're not nearby then it won't help. 

Pairing silent and audible alarms is a good way to go as the sound could drive away thieves and alert the people nearby that something might be wrong, while the silent alarm notifies you directly. This way you won't accidentally dismiss the audible alarm as being someone else's car.

Immobilization Alarms

Immobilization alarms are the best option if you're afraid your vehicle might get stolen when someone breaks in. These alarms won't prevent a break-in, but the thieves won't be able to easily move your vehicle. Immobilization alarms won't allow a vehicle to start unless the key is present. 

Unfortunately, thieves have evolved with the new technology. Cloned keys can trick your car into giving them access. While this is less common as car break-ins usually aren't planned, this is still something you need to consider when installing car alarms.

You can also consider having a remote starter installed in your vehicle. This allows you to remotely start your car as you're approaching it, or still in your home. It's incredibly useful if the weather is bad, or you're in an area you don't want to linger longer than necessary.

Passive Security

Passive and active alarms refer to how the alarm is activated and deactivated.

If you have an active alarm you need to press a button to activate or deactivate the alarm. This means if you forget to press the button and deactivate the alarm before you get into your car you'll trigger the alarm. Unfortunately, this also means if you forget to activate the alarm your whole security system will be useless.

This is why you should consider passive security. This type of security activates when you lock your car doors and deactivate when you unlock the doors. There's a much smaller chance that you'll accidentally trigger your alarm with this type of system.

Tracking Systems

One of the best ways to boost your car security is to have a GPS tracking system installed along with various alarm systems. The GPS allows you to track the location of your vehicle in near real-time, meaning if your car gets stolen it will be easier for the police to locate it. 

Many car GPS systems also come with built-in alarms that you need to disable before using your car.

Car Alarms Explained

When it comes to car alarms you have to pick the one best suited to your needs. An audible alarm might be the best bet if you live in a high-crime area, or you might prefer an immobilization alarm to ensure no one can steal your car even if they break in. Consider your options, and remember you can always have more than one type of alarm installed.

If you're looking to add a new car alarm to your vehicle, contact us today. Top Line Tints & Audio was established in 2010 to meet all your Window Tinting, Auto Paint Protection, Car Wraps, and Car Electronics needs