Clients of Westminster Speed and Sound in Maryland and southern Pennsylvania often say they’re concerned about remotely started car theft. Can someone easily steal a vehicle once it is remote started? The short answer is a simple no. Your vehicle is just as secure after being remote started as it is at any other time. Still worried? Don’t be – read on for a detailed explanation.
Automatic Door Lock Control
When we install a remote car starter in most vehicles, we interface with the factory power door lock control system. Once our remote starter has started your vehicle, it will make sure that your doors are locked. Even though the engine is running, your vehicle remains secure. Sorry thieves, strike one!
Brake Pedal Interlock
The second line of defense against vehicle theft is a connection to your brake pedal. If someone were to get into your vehicle, as soon as they touch the brake pedal to pull the transmission out of park, the engine will shut down. If you have a vehicle with a manual transmission, the engine will stop when you release the parking brake before turning the ignition to the run position. Thieves, that’s strike two!
Idle Runtime Limits
When we install a remote starter in your vehicle, we can offer several runtime options. The default runtime is about 25 minutes. If someone had a way to break into your car, they would have to fool the remote starter to think the brake pedal wasn’t going to be used, which is very difficult. Next, they would have to replicate the security code from the factory key to activate the ignition system, which is nearly impossible. Most importantly, they would have to accomplish all of this within the pre-programmed runtime of the starter. Sorry criminals, that’s three strikes. You aren’t stealing a car that has been remotely started.
Proper Installation Prevents Remotely Started Car Theft
These vehicle protection methods apply to our installations. If someone else installs your remote starter and doesn’t take the time to integrate the wiring properly with your vehicle, they may make it easier for someone to steal your car. Think of a remote starter installation this way: If you wanted your Lamborghini or Rolls-Royce repainted after an accident, would you go to the guy who gave you the lowest price, or would you choose the company that does the best work?
Maryland’s Remote Car Starter Experts
When it’s time to make your vehicle more comfortable, drop into Westminster Speed and Sound and speak with our team of experts. We can answer any questions you have about remotely started car theft. You can reach us by e-mail by clicking HERE.
Leave a Reply