For most car enthusiasts, constantly upgrading their vehicle for better performance and safety is always a priority. However, this concept need not limit itself to motor enthusiasts since anyone can have their car upgraded.
With car thefts on the rise and many YouTube videos on ‘how to hotwire a car’, your vehicle safety is of utmost importance. While many of us usually consider going to our local car alarm installers for minor vehicle maintenance and safety upgrades, why stop there?
With so many bespoke companies that provide vehicle alarms in Wolverhampton and other areas, finding affordable solutions like a car engine immobiliser has become much easier. While upgrades like engine remapping by companies like BSWC Auto Remapping help you get the latest tech that improves your vehicle performance, safety devices like immobilisers are just as important.
With this in mind, if you’re looking to get more information on car immobilisers and how they work, we’ve got you covered. We have put together a short guide on the basics of car immobilisers that will help you understand how they keep your car safe.
So without further ado, let’s dive in.
Car Engine Immobilisers – All You Need To Know
An immobiliser is an electronic device that prevents the car from starting unless the right key or fob is used. While factory fitted immobilisers are seen in most cars, certain models may not have one present.
This anti-theft device is built-in the car’s engine ECU. With this, in case someone tries to hotwire and start your car, without an authorised key, the car won’t run. In the absence of the electronic fob, the ECU prevents the fuel system from getting activated and stops ignition thereby keeping your vehicle safe.
This means that the key fobs contain transponder chips that send a security code to the immobiliser when you insert the fob into the vehicle. With this, the car will start only if the sent code is correct.
With some advanced manufacturers who deal with vehicle safety devices and systems like car alarms in Wolverhampton and other areas, you also get the two-tier system. This system contains a permanent code and a second changing code.
A second code changes every time you start the vehicle and is saved in the transponder. With this, the immobiliser reads the permanent code and then requests for the second code. If both match the ones saved in the system, your engine will start. If not, your car will not run.
Types Of Immobilisers For Cars
Most factory-fitted immobilisers are usually considered the best option for every vehicle and they are custom made and fitted by the manufacturer. However, some vehicles may not have one in place.
That said, if you’re on the lookout for an immobiliser for your car, here are a few types you need to know about –
- Combined Car Immobiliser and Alarm
- Electronic Immobiliser
- Mechanical Immobiliser
- Wheel locking devices
Based on your car model, budget, and safety requirements, you’ll need to speak to an expert in the field or do some independent research to find out the best option for your vehicle. The good news is that with so many options on the market, you can easily find the perfect immobiliser for your vehicle.
Benefits Of Car Engine Immobilisers
Now that you have a better understanding of the safety an immobiliser brings to a car, you’ll understand why it is an important safety device everyone needs to consider.
Most car insurance companies usually have a better plan for vehicles that have car alarm systems and immobilisers in place as they have a significant impact on the vehicle’s security. Your car is then deemed to be at a lower risk of being stolen thereby resulting in a lower insurance premium.
Additionally, sophisticated car immobilisers act as an effective deterrent to thieves; they ensure the protection of your vehicle at all times. Since most of us make sure to take care of our vehicles, ensuring that they’re covered with basic safety features is always a good idea that will always work in your favour.
Moreover, you can rest assured that any tricks like hot wiring the car will not work on your vehicle as you’ve covered it with the essential safety devices and features.
To Sum Up
Certain devices and safety features for vehicles may seem like an investment but the benefits they bring outweigh any other worries that one may have. A car engine immobiliser is one such device that definitely has a lot of advantages that it brings to your vehicle. With the safety provided by this device, you can rest assured that your car is safe from theft at any time of the day.
