How To Save On Car Premiums With Anti-Theft Devices

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You can cut the cost of your car insurance by confirming with your insurer the premium discount that you can avail for outfitting the car being insured with the applicable anti-theft device. Insurance companies normally offer special discounts and cutbacks on the amount of premium in consideration to the security system and anti-theft device installed in your car. When you are scouting for the best priced car insurance policy, don?t fail to clarify with your insurance agent the discounts that they can offer to you for the device or security system that you are using in your vehicle.

There are three main types of anti-theft devices available in the market today. These are the mechanical immobilizers, the car security alarm systems and the electronic tracking and immobilizing device. It is important that you have clear understanding of the operating principles of these 3 types of security devices.

The mechanical immobilizers are the popular latches that restrict the movement of the steering wheel. This mechanical immobilizer will prevent car thieves from driving off with your car as they cannot gain control of the steering wheel. Many car owners take this as a practical alternative to the high priced electronic alarm systems. There are also other lock bars which can be used on the brake pedals, the wheels and the gear stick shifters. The inherent strength of these sturdy lock bars is that they are effective deterrent to potential theft as ordinary thieves easily get discouraged by the mere sight of these immobilizers outfitted in the car. Nonetheless, police officials strongly recommend that these mechanical locks be used as part of a more complex anti-theft and security system for your car.

If you prefer the modern gadgetry for the security system for your car, then you have to make your choice from the devices that fall under the major category of security alarm systems. These electronic gadgets are generally motion-activated alarm systems. The system produces a deafening alarm in case of forcible entry, sudden movements and nudges and perimeter breaks. The alarm serves as a deterrent for potential theft as it is easily activated under the previously listed threat scenarios.

The third class of anti-theft devices includes the electronic devices that provide tracking capability and electronically activated immobilizing capability. These electronic devices deliver real time reports on the actual location of a stolen vehicle. It also features a tamper proof VIN etching feature that provides the unique identification code of your vehicle. There are models that provide an electronically activated immobilizing capability that will prevent thieves from driving off with your vehicle.

The last thing that you must do when you are considering the appropriate car insurance is to ask and confirm the discounts being offered by the car insurance companies for vehicles outfitted with security systems and anti-theft devices. You have to confirm with your insurance agent or the insurance companies which anti-theft devices qualify for a discount on premiums. If you are making online searches, make sure that you provide a complete description of the anti-theft device that is installed in the car being insured.

Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading Car Insurance portal, which provides cover for all Car Insurance types.