Which anti-theft device is best for my car

Admittedly, nobody has yet invented a fully effective anti-theft system that stops a car from being stolen. But there are ways to make would-be thieves think twice before trying to drive off with your car. It makes sense: faced with one car that has an anti-theft system and another that doesn’t, which one do you think will be the target of the theft attempt? So let’s go through the types of anti-theft devices available, so you can choose the one that convinces you most.

Mechanical anti-theft devices

Mechanical anti-theft devices are devices that prevent parts of the car from moving so that it cannot be used. There are several types of mechanical anti-theft devices, each of which blocks different parts of the car depending on its function. They are resistant to cutting and breaking, designed to withstand the efforts of thieves, although it must also be said that a well-equipped and sufficiently motivated thief can manage to get around these devices.

• Steering wheel lock: The steering wheel lock is, as its name suggests, a bar fitted to the top of the steering wheel that prevents it from turning. It is quite sturdy, although the lock that secures the bar to the steering wheel must be strong, since this is the real weak point of this system. Even so, it is very visible and will make a thief think twice before trying to steal the car, and they will probably choose another one instead.
• Pedal lock: The pedal lock device is similar to the previous one in that it immobilises the pedals so the car cannot be driven. Unlike the previous one, it is not visible from the outside, so it is not as much of a deterrent as the steering wheel lock.
• Handbrake and gear lever lock: In this case the anti-theft device is fitted to the handbrake lever and the gear lever, so the car can neither be released nor put into gear. It is therefore also quite effective, and since it can be seen from outside it may also have a deterrent effect.

Electronic anti-theft devices

• Electronic alarm: This is the simplest electronic anti-theft system. The car has several sensors that detect an attempt to access the vehicle and activate an audible alarm to warn that the car is being stolen. This system is widely used and can sometimes malfunction, mistaking a strong vibration, such as a lorry passing by the car, for a theft attempt and sounding at inopportune moments, but it is usually a good deterrent.
• GPS tracking systems: This anti-theft system makes it possible to locate the car via GPS, so if the thief disables the alarm and unlocks the car, it can be tracked down easily. This system may not prevent the theft, but it allows the vehicle to be located and recovered in a short time.
• Mobile phone anti-theft apps: There are several apps that allow stolen vehicles to be tracked, and they offer additional functions. In connected cars they can determine the number of kilometres travelled and other information that can make recovery easier. On some models it is also possible to immobilise the vehicle and prevent it from being driven any further. Admittedly, these are paid apps and only work on connected cars with the latest technology.

Now you know the different types of anti-theft systems available on the market, so you can choose the one you like best and that suits your needs.