The sound of a car alarm going off is surely familiar to you. Even though the sound could be annoying, it has a purpose: it keeps potential thieves away from a car and its contents. Unfortunately, a car alarm is insufficient to discourage some clever thieves. Since technology is advancing so quickly in this day and age, auto thieves have also improved their tactics.
These days, it’s not just about slim jims and hotwiring; it’s a digital game where the old, tried-and-true ways still work sometimes. Car security has never been more important, and in a society where most people find car alarms annoying and ignore them, it’s not enough to just remember to lock your car door.
Having one of the best anti-theft devices for your car could mean the difference between leaving your car parked and having it taken. Put on your safety belts because we’re about to take a thrilling dive into the world of the Best Car Anti-Theft Devices, a collection that will do more than prevent theft; it will also improve your driving experience.
Best Car Anti-Theft Devices For 2024
8. Ticonn Faraday Bag
Car designs now frequently include keyless entry. Although this is convenient for car owners, your automobile could be at risk if a criminal manages to mimic the radio frequency that the key fob emits. To combat this, Ticonn has developed the Faraday bag, a container that effectively blocks electromagnetic waves.
Ticonn has replicated this on a smaller scale to prevent anyone from scanning car keys. If you are satisfied with the security features that the manufacturer of your car has placed, the Ticonn Faraday Bag is a good option. The bag is quite small and can be conveniently stored in a handbag or bag. It also fits on most keychains.
Pros
- Includes two Faraday cages.
- 3.5-inch x 5.0-inch bags
- Lifelong protection
Cons
- Ineffective in preventing theft
7. Vyncs GPS Tracker
Usually, your only option if your car is stolen is to call the police. That is what the Vyncs GPS Tracker seeks to rectify. This tracking device connects to the OBD2 connection on the car and provides you with real-time location information. In addition, it estimates fuel economy and reads diagnostic data from vehicles.
For the first year of service, there is an activation cost of $39.99 for Vyncs tracking. The service is not billed monthly after the first year; instead, it is renewed annually for about $80. The Vyncs GPS Tracker is a wise option if you value your car and want to improve your current recovery strategy.
Pros
- GPS tracking in real-time
- Reads fuel economy, battery voltage, and engine codes.
- Provides a 24/7 roadside assistance option.
Cons
- Long setup time
- Relatively high activation and subscription costs
6. The Club 3000
The Club 3000 Twin Hooks Steering Wheel Lock will certainly appeal to you if you don’t consider subtlety to be a virtue. Reminiscent of a character from “The Simpsons,” the Club’s yellow paint job serves as both a visual and a physical deterrent.
Because of its lengthened bar, you can’t spin the automobile all the way around with the Club 300 attached to your steering wheel. In the event of a break-in, the Club effectively renders the vehicle undriveable.
Pros
- Fits all vehicles, including vans, SUVs, and cars
- Self-locking mechanism
- Made to withstand sawing, pulling, and other removal efforts
Cons
- The build quality is a little off.
5. Tevlaphee Steering Wheel Lock Anti-Theft Device
The Tevlaphee Brake Pedal Lock and Steering Wheel are similar to The Club’s follow-up. It provides a thorough and visually striking deterrent against vehicle theft. The device offers a dual-layer defense by smoothly securing the brake pedal and steering wheel. Personalized access is ensured by adding a layer of security with a combination lock.
It is a good option for anyone looking for increased security because of its dual functionality and striking appearance. It’s a cost-effective combination of efficiency and simplicity. But much like the Club, you need to be careful when you use it.
Pros
- A combination lock with 5 digits.
- Locks the brake pedal and the steering wheel.
- Visual Deterrent
Cons
- Never forget this combination.
- This could result in scuffs on the steering wheel
- Installation takes some time.
4. LoJack for Cars, GPS Tracker for Vehicles
The LoJack GPS Tracker is a tamper-proof and silent vehicle tracking device that has smooth integration with law enforcement. If your car is stolen, recovery operations will be more successful because of its capacity to cooperate with law enforcement, which establishes a direct line of communication with the authorities.
Though expert installation is necessary, this device’s effectiveness is unparalleled. LoJack provides an exceptional partnership between cutting-edge technology and cooperative law enforcement, guaranteeing the highest level of protection.
Pros
- Collaborates with law enforcement
- Silent working
- Tamper-Proof
Cons
- Professional Installation is necessary
- High Cost
- It’s hidden, so it doesn’t prevent break-ins or theft damage.
3. Feiton Remote Battery Kill Switch
The simplicity and reliable performance of the Kill Switch Car Immobilizer make it stand out. It offers a simple yet effective way to deter theft attempts by switching off the engine’s power, making the car undriveable. It offers an additional degree of covert security, subtly securing your vehicles, as it is invisible to would-be auto thieves.
During the 1980s, when auto theft rates were almost three times higher than they are today, this antiquated form of protection was rather popular. The “kill switch” is still incredibly powerful, but installation needs to be handled by professionals. Though this unit employs an activation sequence instead of keys, it is much more functional and less difficult than its 1980s ancestors, but it still requires being linked up.
Customizable activation sequences guarantee individualized control by restricting engine access to the legitimate owner. The Kill Switch is a crucial part of any anti-theft arsenal, even though expert installation is advised due to its high level of protection. It’s an easy-to-protect mechanism that works well.
Pros
- Stops the car’s starting ability.
- Hidden for maximum coverage
- Personalized activation sequences
Cons
- Expert installation is necessary.
- The activation sequence should not be forgotten.
- Performs optimally when paired with other anti-theft devices.
2. Viper SmartStart Module With GPS Tracking (VSM250)
The Viper SmartStart Module with GPS Tracking is a top pick because it combines state-of-the-art technology with unmatched effectiveness. It turns your smartphone into a high-tech security command center and provides real-time car tracking straight from your device.
As a form of proactive security, the digital fencing function acts as a sentinel and notifies you whenever your vehicle crosses specified boundaries. But unleashing your inner James Bond will cost you a monthly payment and expert installation.
Pros
- Monitoring in real-time on a smartphone.
- Digital fencing notifications.
- Manage using your mobile device.
Cons
- Requires a monthly payment.
- Expert installation is necessary.
- Could run out of battery.
1. The Club 1000 Original Club Steering Wheel Lock
Its classic appearance and unmatched security make the Club 1000 Original Club Steering Wheel Lock stand out. More than merely a theft deterrent, it makes a bold statement of protection due to its cut-resistant strength and solid key lock mechanism.
Its timeless design lends a nostalgic touch to current security and fits almost any car. Simple installation guarantees accessibility, but take care not to scratch or mark the steering wheel. If you’re a car owner who values both safety and good looks, the Club 1000 is the way to go.
Pros
- Simple and classic.
- Fits all cars, including Ferraris and Fords.
- Quick and simple to set up.
Cons
- Relatively low tech.
- It can potentially damage your steering wheel.
- Keep the key with you to unlock it.
A Buyer’s Guide to Car Anti-Theft Devices
The steps that you take to make your car theft-proof will vary depending on what your car’s manufacturer has already installed and what you think is suitable for it. Here are some things to think about before making a purchase:
How Many Cars Are Stolen Every Year?
While not every car is targeted, statistics from the past few years indicate a rise in vehicle thefts.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) says that the number of reported vehicle thefts has been going up by tens of thousands of cars every year. In 2022, over one million cars were reported stolen. In 2008, the United States had 1.05 million recorded vehicle thefts, the most ever, according to NICB data.
According to NICB President and CEO David J. Glawe, “we are seeing vehicle theft numbers that we haven’t seen in nearly 15 years, and there is very little deterrent to stop criminals from committing these acts as they are just property crimes, like shoplifting.”
According to the NICB, the number of vehicle thefts in the US increased by 13% annually beginning in June 2020. According to the organization, this concerning trend persisted all through 2021, with most states reporting an increase in cases compared to the previous year.
The organization claims that there has been an increase in carjackings in many large cities, where the victim was either threatened or suffered physical harm. Even though those numbers might make you nervous, calling the police after your car has been stolen is the best thing you can do. Claim with your insurance provider if theft is covered under your comprehensive car insurance policy.
Does Your Car Insurance Cover Theft?
Putting an anti-theft device on your car might give you peace of mind, but some comprehensive car insurance plans also cover damage or theft to your car. If you file a theft claim, your insurance provider will pay you back for the car’s actual cash value (ACV), minus the deductible.
The majority of states do not mandate comprehensive coverage, but if you are financing the car, an auto lender can ask you to include it in your policy. Check the details of your policy to confirm if theft is covered by your auto insurance.
How Can You Prevent Car Theft?
If you feel that your car’s alarm system isn’t providing adequate security, it might be best to try your luck with different devices. More deterrents mean more hurdles for a would-be thief to overcome, which increases vehicle security.
Combining a main deterrent, such as a wheel lock, with a secondary alarm, kill switch, or tracking device can make your vehicle more secure and less likely to be stolen. In the end, how much you spend on theft protection will probably depend on how much you value your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the three categories of anti-theft devices?
- Warning Devices: An auditory or visual signal to would-be burglars indicating your car is secured.
- Immobilizing Devices: This stops robbers from hot-wiring the car and from breaking your ignition.
- Tracking Devices
However, it is your responsibility to use your basic anti-theft measures, such as The Club, with diligence. It is also your responsibility to ensure that the car is locked and the keys are safe.
Are car anti-theft devices effective?
Yes, but most anti-theft devices can be bypassed with enough determination. The efficiency of each kind of device varies. Although club-style locks are simple, they may be broken with the correct equipment. But they will serve as a visual deterrent and discourage casual thieves. On the other end of the spectrum, there are trackers like Lojack that can precisely track a stolen vehicle but do little to stop break-ins.
Is it easy to install a car anti-theft device?
Permanently installed passive and active anti-theft devices in your vehicle may be considered authorized equipment by your auto insurance provider. The automaker may install these devices either before the vehicle is purchased or after it has already been purchased. Basic devices, such as locks or the Club, are always easy to install yourself, but they are not as reliable as more complex systems that are installed by professionals.
Can thieves disable car alarms?
Yes, if they can replicate the keys and hence mimic the alarm’s frequency, they will be able to just turn it off on their own. Burglars are finding it simpler and easier to get their hands on this technology, which allows them to just drive your car away and disable the alarm.
Will the cost of your insurance increase with anti-theft devices?
The frequency of theft is one factor contributing to the higher insurance costs for some car models. However, anti-theft measures can help. You can be eligible for lower auto insurance rates if your car has integrated security measures.
Conclusion
The best anti-theft devices for cars let you do more than just lock them. In this article, we’ve put together a list of products that we believe can help protect your vehicle from theft. Given sufficient time, a determined burglar could certainly overcome any anti-theft system. Having said that, the above-mentioned devices will deter thieves by making your car a more difficult target.
