Smart Factory Alarm System Option

[smarties]

These days I really do not understand why an alarm is not just a standard feature of any auto. I understand the dealers adding them to make an extra buck but damn unless you live in the middle of no where who wouldnt like an alarm!! Now will the key fob have keyless entry without the alarm?

[Karl Roth]

Originally Posted by smarties

These days I really do not understand why an alarm is not just a standard feature of any auto. I understand the dealers adding them to make an extra buck but damn unless you live in the middle of no where who wouldnt like an alarm!! Now will the key fob have keyless entry without the alarm?

yes it will

[Fredvon4]

I always option in the cost of factory alarms... most insurance companies have significant discounts for these systems and the more anti theft options the deeper the discount... I also etch VIN on windows for the discount it gets on insurance

[jonnysan]

Car alarms are a waste of money....proactive devices work better....like mechanical locks on axles or something like that that will not allow car to move no matter what.
Any movement sensor alarm on the Smart will get triggered very easily due to the vehicles small size and ease with which it moves when a large vehicle goes by it parked on the street, for example. The owner will be canceling the alarm incessantly if parked on a city street after being set off by big vehicles passing by it.

[AnitaInKC]

I agree jonnysan. Think about it: who even pays any attention anymore when a car alarm goes off? The only place I can think of you'd even notice, is if it's in your own driveway. Just MHO.

[Fredvon4]

While I agree in principal that most alarms are too sensitive and human nature thwarts the intent...However, my experience is the factory installed alarms are not as prone to this problem...some are, but most are pretty good devices.... They can also be very convenient for finding a car in a large mall parking lot (well at least if you came out the correct door)

Fact is they are really not worth much as a theft deterrent for a highly desired car.... Cute yes, high demand, yes... high cost repair parts-- not really.... I doubt police will see Smart cars in many chop shops... some will, but it won't make anyones top ten stolen list next year

Best single reason to option in the $160 alarm is most insurance discounts will pay back that cost in two years via discounts and it will be one more factory option on the re-sale sheet when the time comes

[SmartAzz]

As someone who has caught a postman who damaged my car because it set off the alarm and alerted me before he could get away I think they can definitely be beneficial I always keep my ears tuned for it, also using the panic button can be handy.

Never had an issue with an alarm being too sensitive either, simply had any aftermarket ones set correctly and the OEM ones have been fine (only time I had an issue was when the interior motion sensor was defective, it was replaced under warranty).

In the end I determined that it is a lost cost option that does have its uses making it worthwhile.

[Fredvon4]

Back to original post question...

I tend to think that some aftermarket alarm systems / remote starters are better then factory but caution you this:

.... I know many many more people with botched alarm installs then I know people who got a well done professional installation...

The point is... if you are willing to let some one hack into your under warranty car's electrical system you need to know they are reputable, insured, and willing to make good any damage they caused to factory systems that were working before the install

A reputable install company will not have any problem with this idea...

[spdickey]

Okay, kicking myself that I didn't check off the alarm system. Also missed the tach (Going to cost me $250+ to get that one DIO) and the fog lamps (any good aftermarket will look the same.

Perhaps I'll Lojack the smart if I felt the need.

I did read that the panic alarm is there regardless. And that's the only thing I'd really ever want to be used on the car. Good for finding your car in crowded parking lots. Though with the smart you just look for the gaggle of curious pressing their noses into your windows. Which would set off the alarm. Oh well, I will have a car to drive!

[baily_k]

I just heard the Smart Factory Alarm it's very cool. No horn honking or siren blaring in the middle of the night. It just screams out, "PUT ME DOWN, PUT ME DOWN".