Top 5 Car Alarm Systems: Secure Your Automotive

A car is one of the most significant investments that you can make. It greatly improves your mobility. As such, it is crucial to know how to secure it, especially from car thieves.

You can only secure your car properly if you get the best car alarm systems. There are so many car alarms in the market today. As such, you will require knowledge to know which the best one for you.

In this article, I will review five of the best car alarm systems in the market. You will, therefore, be able to make an informed choice depending on your needs.

List of 5 Best Car Alarm Systems

#	Image	Car Alarm System	Price
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Python 5706P Responder Car Alarm – Best Overall

Python 5706P is one of the best car alarm systems in the market. It comes with several unique key features that you may not find in other car alarms.

One key feature that you will like is its four auxiliary outputs. With these, you can add tilt sensors and a compatible glass break to the system.

This car alarm system also comes with a Viper SmartStart compatibility feature. Through the OBD connector, this module connects to the main unit of the car alarm. You can then track your car using an App on your smartphone.

The app will allow you to track your car’s location in case a thief steals it. This GPS tracking increases your chances of recovering your stolen car.

Moreover, car owners can use the app to monitor performance and control the entire car system. The only main downside that you will encounter with the SmartStart GPS tracking is the monthly charges.

The Python 5706P car alarm also comes with a two-way pager that has an LCD display. The pager will alert you in case the alarm goes off or a warning has been issued.

One other selling point for Python 5706P is the remote start system. It ensures that the temperature inside your car is ideal before you get inside.

By just a click of a button, you can start the engine so that your car can start warming before you get in.

This car alarm system also locks your car’s gear to ensure that no one can drive away with your car.

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Viper 5305V 2 Way LCD Keyless Entry Car Alarm – Best GPS Tracking

The 5305V car alarm is another high-quality car alarm system from Viper. This car alarm system comes with many key features that go beyond just securing your car.

Firstly, this keyless entry alarm will help you to secure your car from being stolen by thieves. Moreover, it also allows you to lock or unlock your car door. Besides, it will also allow you to start your engine.

This car alarm system is great for convenience. It works for long-range. As such, car owners can start their cars even as they walk from their home, office, or a shop.

The keyless entry 5305V also allows you total control over your car. Using an LCD display, you can remotely control your car.

That is not all. It is among the car alarm systems that make it possible for you to control your car using your smartphone. You can achieve this by acquiring a Viper SmartStart and GPS tracking. Being from the same manufacturer, these two work perfectly well together.

If you add the Viper SmartStart and GPS tracking, you will have managed to further your car’s security system. Moreover, you will also have succeeded in making your car look a bit more modern.

This combo will also make it possible for you to start your engine using your smartphone.

The only downside with this system is that the GPS internet connection. As such, you must have an internet connection in your car for it to work.

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Compustar CS7900-AS Remote Start Car Alarm – Best in Shock Sensor

Another best car alarm system is the Compustar CS7900. It is popular among car owners for its quality and design. It also comes with several key features that make it easy for you to control your car.

With this remote car system, you need not worry about getting late as you start your car. Using this keyless entry security system, you can lock and unlock your car promptly.

Moreover, you can also start your engine from as far as 3000 feet away. The remote start will help you save time since you need not get near your vehicle to start it.

Using a remote start also helps you when you need to cool your car from outside before entering it. The same will also apply if you want to warm your car interior before getting inside.

This car alarm system also comes with a shock sensor. The shock sensor can detect any impact on your windows. Moreover, the intelligent security system sensors can also detect an impact on your door, trunk, and all-around your car.

The remote that comes with the Compustar CS7900 is also advanced. The remote has a screen that shows you whether the system is executing the command you have given it. The remote will also alert you in case a car thieve tries to open your car.

Thanks to its advanced key features and friendly price, this car alarm system has become very popular. You can also consider it if you would like to upgrade your car alarm and locking system.

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Prestige APS997Z Car Alarm System – Best Easy to Install

Prestige APS997Z is also among the best car alarm systems in the market. It is not only popular for its friendly price but also its key features.

It is a high-quality car alarm system that comes with a dual-stage shock sensor to secure your car. Another best feature is that it comes with a car horn output. The horn output helps the alarm to sound louder.

This car alarm system alerts you immediately when a vehicle thief tries to break into your car. As such, you can rest assured that car thieves cannot attempt to steal your car without getting to know.

Its remote start system has a 5-button design. As such, you can control your car from a distance.

The Prestige APS997Z allows you a one-mile operating range. It also comes with a 2-way LCD command transmitter.

Using the LCD transmitter, you can easily lock and unlock your doors. Moreover, you can also start your engine.

Unlike many other car alarm systems, the Prestige APS997Z is quite easy to install. All you need to do is to follow the manual keenly, and voila, you will be set to go.

One of its other best features is that its sensor can work across walls ad buildings. As such, you can start your car from right in your sitting room.

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Avital 3100lx 3 Channel Keyless Entry Car Alarm – Best for the money

Another car alarm system worth considering is the Avital 3100LX. Although it appears simple at first glance, it comes with a design that you will love.

Its design is sturdy and very straightforward to follow. Moreover, it comes with a very convenient keyless entry system.

If you are in a hurry, you will find this very helpful. You will be able to open and lock your car remotely.

This car alarm system is also straightforward to install. You only need to download the manual online. The manual is very clear, and the instructions are very straightforward to follow.

If you need to make the alarm louder, you can hook it to your car’s siren. With such, you can easily ear from a distance in case a car thieve attempts to steal it.

Another of its best features is its parking light flash. Together with the failsafe-starter kill feature, they ensure that no one else can start your car without the remote.

It also comes with a key fob feature that helps to enhance your vehicle security system further. The key fob prevents any car thieves from entering your car without the wireless transmitter.

Among the many car alarm systems in the market, the Avital 3100LX is very affordable. You need not break the bank to secure your car. With this car alarm system, you can get all the key features you need at a very friendly price.

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Buying Guide for the Best Car Alarm System

One of the best things you can do to secure your car is by installing a car alarm system. You need a unit that is reliable and has convenient features to foil any car theft.

Hunting for a good car alarm system can be frustrating, especially if you don’t know the exact feature to look for. There are plenty of choices in the market, all promising to deliver quality protection.

Below are the key factors you need to consider while buying the best car alarm system.

Compatibility and Ease of Installation

Not all car alarms in the market are compatible with every car brand. However, the good news is that most of them are compatible with cars that have a 12-volt system. Before making any purchase, confirm the compatibility of the alarm on the manufacturer’s website.

As for the installation, go for an alarm that doesn’t have a lot of complications. If you are conversant with the car electrical system, you can do the alarm installation yourself.

Alternatively, you can seek professional installation from your local mechanic. Installation of alarm systems is better in the hands of an expert because simple mistakes can foil your car warranty.

Alarm Range

Most car alarm systems claim to have a mile-long range. Though this sounds great, you hardly need to start your car while a mile away.

Therefore, think of the alarm range in terms of the signal strength instead of distance. In your shopping spree, it is recommendable to buy a car alarm that has a responsive and robust signal. It may not be in the high range category, but it is worth it.

Alarm Noisemaker/ Shock Sensors

It is the most basic feature of a car alarm system. The alarm noisemaker is the one that sounds when someone tries to break into the car. The noise draws attention to the car and scares away car thieves.

It is recommendable to go for quality shock sensors because they determine the effectiveness and sensitivity of car alarm systems. The sensors should sound an alarm anytime someone breaks through the glass or hits the car with a great impact.

An ideal alarm system should produce 100 decibels of sound or more to deter car thieves. The higher the decibels, the louder the alarm siren.

Car Jack Protection

It is almost similar to the shock sensors. However, not all alarm systems come with car jack protection.

This feature includes high-pitched sirens, chirping alarm, or an ignition kill switch. It works incredibly well in deterring car thieves.

Two-Way Pager/ Remote System

A two-way remote control system can send and receive signals. As such, you can activate or deactivate your car’s alarm via a remote, and also you can receive information from your vehicle to the remote.

A two-way alarm system is more appropriate in areas that have high crime rates. It gives you real-time notification on any attempts to break into your car. Also, it gives you visual feedback when your car’s AC or engine is turned on.

High-end models of a two-way pager are customizable in that they can give you specific security alerts.

Encrypted Transmissions

We are living in a digital era where we have tech-savvy car thieves everywhere. As such, having an encrypted transmission is a huge bonus to your car’s security system.

Usually, tech-savvy thieves use state-of-the-art hacking equipment. With this, they can access the signals sent between your car alarm system and your remote.

With an encrypted transmission, it’s only your car system that can decode the signals sent by your remote and not any other device. This feature allows the alarm system to differentiate genuine remote signals from those of a hacker.

Smartphone Compatibility

Presently, many manufacturers are integrating their car alarm systems with smartphone apps. This feature allows car owners to control their cars directly via their smartphones. In case of a security breach, some of these features send you alerts via text or mail.

The GPS tracking feature on your phone can be incredibly helpful in case your car gets stolen.

Keyless Entry

Keyless entry is an incredible, must-have vehicle security feature. It allows you to unlock the doors of your car by one click of a remote button.

Also, it is inter-linked with the alarm system to allow you to lock or unlock your car doors without a key.

The Brand

There are tons of alarm system brands in the market. Reputable brands that have been in the industry for a couple of years consistently delivers quality products. Most of them offer professional installation when you buy from their main branches.

Going for such manufacturers can save you hours of research and wrong guesses. However, this does not mean that lesser-known brands produce low-quality products.

The most recommendable manufacturers for car alarm systems are Python, Avital, and Viper.

Pricing

A car alarm system is one of the most important investments you will ever make. As such, avoid going for the cheapest sets because they may have compromised quality.

Average alarm systems range between $50 and $200. When deciding on the pricing to go for, check features such as shock sensors, smartphone integration, the strength of range, performance, and reliability.

Number of Acceptable Remote Transmitters and Receiver Channels

All control functions of a car alarm system, including remote transmitters, pass through the receiver.

Each receiver has a certain number of channels. A receiver that has more channels can perform more external functions and vice versa. These functions include:

• Car remote start
• Trunk release
• Locking and unlocking doors
• Automatic window roll-up
• Car location
• Immobilizer

We recommend buying a car with a receiver that accepts as many channels as possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a car alarm?

There are tons of reasons why you should consider installing a car alarm. Some of them are:

• It deters any car theft attempt.
• It gives you peace of mind that your car is safe.
• Car alarms lower insurance premiums
• It adds resale value to your car.
• You can easily find your car in a crowded parking lot.

Will an aftermarket car alarm system ruin my car’s warranty?

No, aftermarket car alarms and remote systems do not interfere with a car’s warranty. The only exception is whereby you are installing the alarm by yourself, and then you damage the car’s system. In such a scenario, the warranty will become invalid.

Can I install my new car alarm myself or do I need professional installation?

If you have some experience in installing alarm products, you can go ahead and install the car alarm. However, it is highly recommendable to have professional installation of your car alarm. The wrong installation of such a vital gadget can cost you a lot in the future.

Between one-way and two-way remote system, which is better?

The one-way remote system is appropriate if your car has low exposure to theft. The two-way works well in high-crime areas.

Nonetheless, we recommend the two-way remote system. Besides being very effective in combating car thefts, it is flexible for upgrades.

Do aftermarket car alarm systems consume a lot of battery power?

It depends on the nature of features and the type of alarm system. If it has complicated features, it will undoubtedly need more power.

A standard alarm system drains 30% of the battery power per month.

In the DIY car alarm installation, what are the most challenging parts?

The first part that tends to be a real giant in DIY alarm installations is the wiring. Most aftermarket car alarm kits have fewer wiring materials than required. Also, the installation instructions can be very tricky to follow.

Another challenging area is the programming of the remote control and synching them with the other devices.

Do car alarms silence automatically?

Car alarms come with an emergency override feature to turn off the siren automatically. In case it fails, you can remove the fuse in the alarm system or disconnect cables from the battery to silence the siren.

Conclusion

Having a car alarm system is very crucial since it helps to secure your car. That said, a good car alarm should alert you when car thieves try to steal it.

Moreover, a good car alarm should be able to lock and unlock your car safely. Also, get a car alarm system that allows you to control your car form a long-range.

In our review, Python 5706P emerged as our most preferred choice. It comes with very advanced key features. It even allows you to control your car using your smartphone.

Another key feature of this car alarm system is that it will help to regulate the temperature inside your car. It is also compatible with the Viper SmartStart GPS tracking device.