Should you put an immobilizer in your Car?. Car theft remains a continuous threat. According to a recent estimate by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, over 1 million vehicles were stolen in the United States alone in 2022. Car thieves’ techniques improve along with automobile technology. In 2022 and 2023, there was a high-profile spate of thefts spurred by a viral TikTok trend that targeted specific Kia and Hyundai models due to their lack of a factory-installed theft-prevention feature known as an immobilizer.
If you own a Kia or a Hyundai, or if you’re simply concerned about the safety of your car or truck, don’t be. You can install an immobilizer in practically any car. Here’s a detailed look at this anti-theft technology.
WHAT IS AN IMMOBILIZER?
An immobilizer is a device that prevents a car’s engine from starting unless a certain key or fob is present. The technology normally works by interacting with a computer chip, which then authorizes the ignition system to engage. The idea is to deter vehicle theft by creating an additional layer of security for criminals to overcome.
Car thieves can be both resourceful and pragmatic. They normally hunt for the easiest theft targets available, aiming for a quick profit with little risk. By adding an immobilizer – promoted with a sticker on the window — you may make your vehicle less appealing when parked in a row of other prospective targets.
Choosing a car immobilizer
There are two types of car immobilizers: passive and active. When you turn off the ignition, a passive immobilizer system activates automatically, going into operation without the need for you to touch a button or flip a switch. An active immobilizer must be intentionally activated.
Why would you desire the additional labor of an active immobilizer? If the system malfunctions, you can turn off the immobilizer and drive your vehicle without it until it is repaired. If the immobilizer system fails on a passive system, you may be unable to start your vehicle. An active system might also be a more straightforward choice for older automobiles with rudimentary ignition and electrical components.
Read: When and How to Use Low Range in Your Offroader
Installing an immobilizer in your car
Installing a car immobilizer is not an easy procedure. Most immobilizer kits must be hooked into the ignition circuit and then configured according to the manufacturer’s instructions, so familiarity with a vehicle’s electronic systems is required. Some active immobilizers work as kill switches, cutting electricity to the vehicle’s fuel system or electronic control unit, allowing for easier installation. However, considering the potential of damaging other car components, it is usually advisable to hire a technician that can cleanly install a kill switch or immobilizer. Installing an immobilizer normally costs between $50 and $160.
