Looking to purchase new or used cars in Gauteng? Make sure you invest in the correct security features. If you’re purchasing your first-ever car, it’s a massive responsibility. Be it an upfront cash purchase or car finance, you will need to factor in other expenses such as insurance and safety. These costs are necessary for those unforeseen events that you cannot always budget for.
Safety is a number one concern for first-time car owners. It’s easy to think that only the older and more affordable vehicles will be stolen, but any target will do for someone who is searching for something in specific. Theft is a common reality, and you constantly need to worry about the possibility of ‘what if’ when you own a vehicle. Here are a few ways to improve the safety and security of your car:
- Install a car alarm
Many modern cars come with a built-in alarm system, however, if the car you want to purchase doesn’t, you will need to consider installing a basic car alarm. Many car alarms are extremely loud, so if yours goes off in a public area, someone is bound to hear it. Usually, when a car door opens, the alarm will be activated and can only be deactivated when you use your remote to switch it off. This will, hopefully, deter someone from your vehicle or make it harder for them to steal what they came for. It will also scare them off quickly, and if you have a car tracker linked to your cellphone, you will immediately be alerted if and when there is any strange activity nearby your vehicle or something to be concerned about.
- Consider a steering wheel lock bar
If your budget is that of an older model vehicle, you can stay safe with a steering wheel lock. These locks don’t always guarantee that parts won’t get stolen but they do guarantee that someone won’t be able to drive your car. Most thieves want to be fast and disguised, so if they see that there is something that could potentially slow down their mission, they would avoid your car. These steering wheel bars are usually made from hard metal, making it difficult to cut through. And in order to remove the bar from your wheel, you will need to have a specialised key to open and release the bar. While it might feel like an inconvenience to constantly have to put on the bar and take it off every time you drive your car, it certainly is a cost-effective option that is easy to use for all.
- Think about a kill switch
A kill switch is a modern electronic feature that can either be a stand-alone element or a part of your built-in alarm system. The way it works is that once someone opens your car door, your kill switch will be activated and cut off the fuel to the car, as well as the electrical system. If it’s a stand-alone feature, it will be its own separate switch which will require a code when switching on your car. This could, potentially, add an additional two to five minutes to the time it will take to open your car and drive off, but realistically, this feature will make it near impossible for someone to steal your car and drive away with it.
- What about a brake lock?
A brake lock is a similar concept to a steering wheel lock, however, it is attached to your brake pedal. This security feature makes it impossible for someone to move the car unless the device has been unlocked or removed by means of cutting it off. This is also made from hard metal, providing unarmed thieves or those without tools with a challenge, should they want to remove it quickly. A brake lock is also a more affordable option for new car owners, as well as easy-to-use and accessible for every car.
- Don’t forget a tracking device
A tracking device is a very popular feature, not only in the event of theft but also for safety when tracking a loved one’s location. This innovative piece of technology works is through GPS technology. If someone steals your car, you will be able to track where your vehicle is for recovery purposes, but if you have an additional immobiliser in your car, you will be able to demobilise your car so that the thief cannot drive it or operate it at all. Both of these features are expensive but very much worth your while. A tracker, specifically, offers immediate communication if your car has been stolen.
Final thoughts
As you can see, there are plenty of security features to consider. Your choice will depend on your budget, your lifestyle and your car’s requirements. For instance, if you park your vehicle outside at night, on the road, you will urgently need to look at one (or two or three) of these options. Anything can happen, and it’s best to take precaution where possible. When searching for cars for sale in Pretoria, speak to any of the agents at the well-established car dealerships in Pretoria for their advice on a particular security system. They will be able to provide you with the information you need, based on your car preference and budget.
Road Safety and Protecting yourself against Vehicle Crime https://t.co/0UmecBzfe8 #ArriveAlive #VehicleCrime pic.twitter.com/2qCDrvFB0X
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) August 22, 2018