What Are The Best Car Alarm Systems? (2022 Review Guide)
For most of us, our car is one of the most valuable items we own. But it’s also one of the easiest to steal. The average person has no choice but to leave their car unattended in parking lots and on streets for long hours at a time, even overnight.
According to FBI stats, over 700,000 cars are stolen each year. The Honda Accord, Honda Civic and full-size Ford Pickups are three of the most commonly stolen cars in the country – but really any and every car is at risk.
Car alarms are not only effective at preventing theft, but they’re also incredibly useful in recovery. Navigating the various car alarm system systems can be confusing, but our recommendations and guide will steer you to success. Here are the five best car alarm system options for 2022 and a complete guide to finding the right one for your specific needs.
Page Contents
- Our Top 3 Ranked Car Alarms
- Our #1 Choice – Directed Electronics Avital 3-Channel Car Alarm
- Runner Up Choice – CarLock Real Time Car Tracker and Alert System
- Honorable Mention – Viper 350 Plus 1-Way Car Alarm
- Best Value Pick – Pyle Car Alarm Security System
- Also Consider – InstallGear Car Alarm Security and Keyless Entry System
- Car Alarm Systems Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the Car Alarm System Noise Actually Stop Theft?
- What Features Should a Car Alarm System Have?
- LCD Display
- Can I Install a Car Alarm Myself?
- How Can I Prevent My Car from Being Stolen?
- Do I Need An LCD For My Car Alarm System?
- Final Thoughts
Our Top 3 Ranked Car Alarms
Our #1 Choice – Directed Electronics Avital 3-Channel Car Alarm
High-quality components with up to four remote entry key fobs make this a safe and secure choice for any vehicle with multiple drivers.
Pros
- Well-constructed components designed to last a long time
- Includes two key fobs with the option to add two more
- Three-channel security system prevents hacking and interference
Cons
- Controlled by key fob instead of an app
- Dome light supervision requires additional relay
Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the brand name Avital. As part of the Directed Electronics family, Avital is actually basically the same as Viper, Paython, Clifford and others. This means the components are very high-quality, but these systems are designed to only be installed by professionals.
System includes two fobs with remote start, keyless entry and three-channel security system. Up to four fobs can be programmed to one vehicle. A bright red LED status indicator will show thieves your car is ready to tackle trouble. Dome light supervision is also available with an additional relay.
Runner Up Choice – CarLock Real Time Car Tracker and Alert System
Controlled by an easy-to-use app, the CarLock system allows for real-time location tracking, speed monitoring and more.
Pros
- Easy plug and play installation with full smartphone control
- Real-time location monitoring with dangerous driving notices
- Virtual mechanic allows for vehicle health monitoring
- Detailed GPS with trip tracking
Cons
- Limited selection of non-tracking-based features
- GPS tracking requires monthly subscription to cloud-service
While not filled with features, the CarLock is a simple and effective way to track your car. The main system is a small device which plugs into your car’s OBD port. All alerts and tracking information is sent to your smartphone.
Aside from location tracking, the CarLock system monitors all ignition starts, vibrations and even device disconnections. Have a teenager in your home? The system can be set to monitor dangerous driving such as speeding, hard braking and sharp turns.
The entire system operates with a cloud-based subscription system. The first month is free with purchase of the device, with each subsequent month costing $9.60.
Honorable Mention – Viper 350 Plus 1-Way Car Alarm
Packed with features, the Viper 350 works to prevent theft as well as aid in quick recovery.
Pros
- Ultra-secure three-channel system
- Includes keyless entry, remote start system and real-time GPS tracking
- Theft deterrents include alarm, ignition kill switch and more
- Trusted Viper name is feared by thieves
Cons
- Professional installation required
Viper is a premier name in car security, and their Viper 350 is a versatile system with a variety of features. This is a three-channel system with keyless entry. Includes a four-button remote with optional remote start system and GPS tracking.
Would-be car thieves are thwarted on multiple fronts with dual zone shock sensor, Anti-Carjacking system, Panic Alarm, FailSafe kill switch and more. A bright blue LED light clearly identifies the system as a Viper, warning unsavory characters to stay away.
Best Value Pick – Pyle Car Alarm Security System
The Pyle Security System combines loud sirens with various quieter features such as remote start and multiple arming modes.
Pros
- Loud, attention-grabbing 120bD two-tone siren
- Panic mode, chirp mode and sensor bypass features
- Remote transmitter can start ignition and lock/unlock doors
Cons
- Requires professional installation
- Impact sensor likely requires adjustment (default setting is very sensitive)
Pyle isn’t the biggest name in auto security, but this is a solid, well-made system designed to protect your car from a variety of potential problems. A 120dB two-tone siren draws plenty of attention, while ignition locks, remote start and other features keep you safe when entering and exiting the vehicle.
Includes two four-button remote transmitters which let you switch between standard and level shifted operating mode. Key fobs include a panic mode for emergency situations as well as override mode for valet parking and other situations involving a temporary driver.
Also Consider – InstallGear Car Alarm Security and Keyless Entry System
A full-featured alarm system with remote door lock, trunk access and more.
Pros
- Siren and flashing lights with LED indicator
- Remote entry and trunk access
- Includes two four-button remotes
Cons
- Vague installation instructions (professional probably required)
- Customer service can be hard to reach
The InstallGear Car Alarm system is loaded with bells and whistles – both figuratively and literally! Aside from a siren and flashing lights, the system also includes remote lock/unlock and remote trunk opening and closing.
The entire system is controlled by a four-button remote (includes two fobs). An LED indicator light sends a clear, silent warning when the system is armed.
Car Alarm Systems Frequently Asked Questions
Car theft can be silent and sneaky or brash and bold. It can happen at basically any time of day in practically any location. Here’s a look at how car alarm systems work and what features you’ll want to consider:
Does the Car Alarm System Noise Actually Stop Theft?
A blaring car alarm system is a pretty common sound no matter where you live. Most of us are relatively immune to the noise. A motion-activated honking is even standard on many different cars and trucks. Does a loud noise really stop car theft?
Yes and no. Car alarms can conceivably scare away a would-be burglar, but the noise doesn’t actually stop anyone from breaking into your car, and it also doesn’t help recover the car later.
What Features Should a Car Alarm System Have?
Fortunately, today’s car alarm systems are much more than noisemakers. The best systems combine a variety of preventative and recovery features. Here’s what you want to look for:
Car Tracking Capability
While a loud alarm system might scare away some would-be thieves, the most useful feature of a car alarm system is typically the tracking capability. Knowing exactly where the stolen car is located obviously makes recovery much easier for law enforcement. Car tracking often includes additional features such as geo-fencing and performance tracking.
Car tracking has been around for decades, with the LoJack system probably the most popular. However, the new twist for today’s world is the ability to monitor tracking from your smartphone. A tracking device can be plugged right into your car’s On-Board Diagnostics connector. You then download an app and you’ll be able to track your car’s position at any time.
Note that some of these tracking systems do require a monthly subscription fee. Typically, fees will range between $5 and $10 each month. However, because information is sent through a cellular network, you’ll be able to track your car practically anywhere on Earth.
Shock Sensors
Motion sensors will be found on almost all types of car alarms. If the car is jostled by a person or hit by another vehicle, a shock sensor alarm will sound. The alarm might be your car’s horn or a different noise made by the system itself. While alarms don’t necessarily engage members of the public, the extra attention can still be effective at chasing away thieves.
Advanced systems will have a wide range of sensitivity settings. They’ll also send a mobile alert so you can be informed of the situation even if you’re out of earshot of the car.
One-Way and Two-Way Remotes
Car alarms can have either one or two-way remotes. A one-way remote is limited to locking or unlocking the doors and arming or disarming the alarm. If your car alarm system goes off, you’ll need to physically hear it, because the key fob won’t flash, vibrate or offer any other indication.
The two-way remote gives you more information. You’ll receive real-time alerts either through the alarm key fob or your mobile device (or both). The alerts can provide specific information about what’s currently happening to your car or the key fob might simply vibrate, flash, etc.
Encrypted Transmission
As technology gets smarter, so do car thieves. In a weird way, certain types of car systems can actually make your car more vulnerable to theft. If the system uses unencrypted wireless technology, tech-savvy thieves can hack the signal and slide right into the driver’s seat. The best car alarm systems use encrypted wireless technology with all remote start and entry devices.
Carjack Protection
A variety of anti-theft features are designed to cause the thief to abandon the stolen vehicle ASAP. Carjack protection features include flashing lights, loud noises and a variety of other sight-and-sound assaults inside the car which basically force the driver to pull over. Not enough? Consider an ignition kill switch to really stop thieves in their tracks.
These systems are called “carjack protection” but they’re effective for any situation where a thief is behind the wheel of your vehicle (i.e., you don’t have to actually be carjacked).
Mobile Accessibility
Most car alarms are controlled by a fob which is typically kept on a keychain. This is often the easiest solution if multiple people drive the same car. However, smartphone-based alarm systems are growing increasingly popular.
Mobile apps allow you to receive text alerts and monitor your car in real-time. High-end manufacturers such as Viper are increasingly emphasizing secure cloud-based control instead of physical remote controls.
Remote Start Capability
Many car alarm systems include remote start. While this is convenient in cold weather, remote start is also a pretty important safety feature. When you can unlock the door and then start the car remotely, you can get into your vehicle quickly. Fumbling with keys while manually unlocking the door and then starting the car can place you in a vulnerable position. Remote start and keyless entry let you drive away from any location fast.
LCD Display
LCD didn’t used to be a standard feature, but now that car alarms have advanced, it’s much easier to find them. They can offer functionality and help with operations during low light or rainy conditions when you may not be able to check otherwise.
LCD remotes provide a lot of information about the operations of your car. When you combine it with a two way remote, you’re able not only to see the alarm but see extra information from the keyfob itself. It’s a really good feature, and now that more alarms are becoming more advanced, you’ll see this feature more often.
It’s also an excellent way to help differentiate between more capable alarms and those that just offer basic services. As alarms become more affordable, you may want to add extra features that help ensure that your car remains safe and cared for.
Can I Install a Car Alarm Myself?
Generally, you only want to install a car alarm system yourself if you’re more than moderately comfortable working on your car, especially with the electrical systems. Most people are usually better off with professional installation. Not only will you know the alarm is installed properly, but professional installation is often required in order to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty.
Installing car alarms yourself can actually be pretty dangerous. The typical installation requires splicing wires in the electrical system, which can cause a fire and other major damage if done incorrectly. Additionally, installation instructions typically aren’t written for a layperson.
How Can I Prevent My Car from Being Stolen?
Most car thefts are victims of opportunity. If your car seems difficult to break into, most thieves will simply move on. Make your car alarm known. A car alarm sticker in the window and a blinking light on the alarm system are two simple but effective ways to deter theft.
Unfortunately, an alarm system isn’t enough to prevent every theft. Here’s a quick rundown of some simple but effective tips to help prevent your car from being stolen:
Lock Up!
Don’t forget the basics. Always lock your car doors and make sure all the windows are rolled up. Also avoid storing a second set of car keys anywhere inside the car, such as under the visor.
Additionally, never leave the car running unattended. This practice is especially popular during periods of cold weather. Called puffing, drivers will start their car and leave it to warm up – only to return in a few minutes to find their car has been stolen, often from their own driveway!
Use a Dash Cam
Dash cams are growing in popularity across the country. These video cameras typically cover the front of the car. While they’re mainly used to identify fault in accidents, they’re also useful in parked cars. A dash cam can help capture video footage of any potential car thieves.
Park in Safe Areas
When parking in public, always choose well-lit areas near other people when possible. Avoid parking far away from stores in darker locations. Even professional car thieves need at least a few minutes of solitude to steal a car. Consistent foot traffic can help keep your car more secure.
Lock the Hood
Thieves might be more interested in specific parts of your car than the whole thing. A car alarm doesn’t do a great job preventing someone from popping open the hood and stealing engine components. Hood locks are a simple solution to keep valuable engine parts safe.
Do I Need An LCD For My Car Alarm System?
No, you don’t need an LCD option with your car alarm, but it makes operation a lot more straightforward. Many of them have keyless remotes that can do everything from killing the ignition to telling you the temperature inside the car.
The LCD remote can help you with basic operations even when the lighting conditions are bad. Many newer car alarm systems offer this kind of functionality as a standard feature instead of something extra. You don’t need it, but it can certainly provide an extra boost to your usage.
Final Thoughts
Your car doesn’t need to be defenseless when you’re not around. A car alarm system helps protect your car day and night no matter where it’s parked. While loud sirens and alarms can help deter theft, tracking systems help with recovery efforts if the car is stolen. Additional features such as smartphone-based monitoring, carjacking protection and more also help keep both driver and vehicle safe.
Don’t be a victim of car theft. The best car alarm system helps keep your car in the hands of its rightful owner – you!
