I'm not saying the one I'm getting is the best or anything, you should keep your eyes open for new stuff. Good luck though.

 

I have a break lock, that way no 1 can steal it. It's a small canister that you push your break and then lock it in so you breaks are locked until you add the key. Got it a long time ago so I don't know where you can get them now.

 

If they want your vehicle bad enough they will get it

 

People need to realize that most car alarm systems nowadays add more than just audible deterrence and convenience features. They almost always incorporate some sort of device to prevent, or at least slow down, a thief from quickly starting the vehicle. These devices include starter and fuel pump cut off relays. Even though most newer Ford vehicles have a factory PATS system which accomplishes this, these devices provide an additional and non-standard layer of security. And for those who don't have PATS, these devices become much more essential. As many of you know, older vehicles without PATS can easily be broken into and stolen in a matter of seconds using only a couple simple hand tools. Furthermore, alarm systems nowadays can be equipped with 2-way pagers. Top end alarm systems incorporate GPS which will allow you to track a stolen vehicle online.

A well-installed alarm system (with a starter kill relay), combined with a fuel pump kill switch, a hood lock, and some kind of mechanical lock (Club or Autolock) will make your vehicle very difficult and time consuming to steal. They also really cost alot of money (less than $300 installed for a basic systems). Of course, thieves could simply decide to use a tow truck/rollback, but that method is relatively uncommon.

More auto security tips...
http://www.nicb.org/public/newsroom/...edapproach.cfm

 

Alarms can be defeated.

 

Micro alarms.
fully featured, easy to use.

try www.bought4less.com

 

How are the stock horn alarms? Are they a joke to override or are the ok?

 

What then do you suggest that we should do (if anything) to reduce the chances of getting our vehicles stolen? Please enlighten us. :-)

I have installed and made over thirty (yes, 30!) anti-theft devices and mods into my Ranger. These include a well-installed alarm (starter kill relay, hidden brain, camouflaged wiring, decoy switches and wires, battery backup for siren, interior piezo siren), disconnected hood release, The Club (with metal "Shield" to impede cutting of steering wheel), and of course, the ultimate anti-theft device: a well hidden fuel pump kill switch.

Even after doing all the above, I'm FULLY aware that my truck can still be stolen. However, I have the piece of mind in knowing that in the (unlikely) event that some thieves were to steal my truck, they would have had to be experienced and determined "pros." They would have had to have the right tools and know how and a fair amount of time to disable all my anti-theft devices. Likely, they would have towed it. The "amateur" punks, which constitutes the vast majority of thieves, would fail miserably or likely wouldn't even bother trying in the first place.

 

A big limitation of factory alarm systems is that they are all wired in exactly the same way from vehicle to vehicle. So if a thief is familiar with the wiring schematic for a certain vehicle, they can quickly disable it. The advantage with aftermarket systems is that they can be installed in locations not immediately known to a thief. In a well installed system, locating the alarm components could take some time. Also, alot of factory alarms are just basic systems which sound an alarm siren and do nothing else. However, most newer vehicles come with "chipped" keys (eg Ford's PATS) which are an effective factory anti-theft device.

Again, I want to emphasize that alarms will not prevent your car from being stolen. They only reduce the chances of it happening. Considering that aftermarket alarm systems don't really cost alot of money, especially in relation to the total cost of the vehicle, I think they are a worthwhile investment. A basic system can be had for less than $300 installed.

Here is a true story to ponder...
My brother spent over $10,000 modifying his Honda Civic but literally did not spend a single penny, not one, on any additional auto security. He now regrets his decision very much. His car was quietly stolen, while he was home, only a few feet away from the front door of his apartment. This happened in a highly upscale and gated apt complex in the suburbs. I bet with a good alarm system, he could have done something to prevent the theft.

 

I say don't worry about it. its a ranger

 

The asian looks nice but the closest installer to me is 3 hrs away!

 

caveat emptor

 

Let the buyer beware of what? Instead of wasting all the time, money and effort on the ranger, I would have been adding accessories to the 250 psd!

 

Abusus non tollit usum

 

Noticed the Viper LCD model is about $100 more than the Code Alarm LCD model with basically the same options. Plus, I was told by installer that Code Alarm warrenties their remotes for life time. Is this the better deal. I'm replacing a Bulldog, so obviousely, I don't know much about alarms. Is one of better quality then the other? Thanks for any input.