Return-Path: Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1989 15:43-EST From: David.Maynard@K.GP.CS.CMU.EDU To: bovik@k Subject: Car alarms (anti-theft devices) Message-Id: <627597797/dpm@K.GP.CS.CMU.EDU> We just had an alarm installed in our car so I thought I would send some more up-to-date information to bovik (especially with the recent rash of thefts and break-ins around CMU). We ended up getting an APS-2 alarm system from Quintex Mobile Communications in Monroeville (next to the Buick dealer, across from Cochran Pontiac). The APS-2 is manufactured by Audiovox. It came with 2 remotes and has both active and passive (that can be disabled) arming. Otherwise it seems to have all of the standard features. We also had the optional power door lock interface installed that locks the doors when you arm the system and unlocks them when you disarm it. It is really convenient since you don't have to fumble with your keys to unlock the door when it is snowing. The only downside of the Audiovox seems to be its 1 year warranty. However, it cost significantly less than the CrimeStopper or Clifford systems. I was impressed with the people at Quintex. They install the optional shock sensor as part of their standard package. The system had recently gone off sale, but they gave us the sale price ($50 off) anyway since we were getting the door lock interface. It ended up that their price for the APS-2 + shock sensor + door lock interface was $50 less than the base APS-2 at Harry Survis Auto Center. They installed the system in 2 hours and seemed to do a professional job. I looked at the 1988 Consumers Reports Buyers Guide and found that the information was terribly out of date. I also looked for other articles but found that things had changed considerably since they had been published. One dealer warned us about one of the Clifford systems (I think it was called the "Ace"). They said they had several units die and weren't installing them until the problems were fixed. Other dealers were still selling the particular unit. One other note to remember is that some insurance companies give you more of a discount for passive-arming systems than for active systems. The cheapest Clifford system we looked at only had active arming. Who knows if it will be worth the money, but at least the door lock interface is a nice convenience feature, we will save about $25/year on insurance, and maybe a thief would pass us by for another car. -David (dpm@k)