bigwilliestyle

Alright, I hate to ask this because it looks like it's been touched on a lot in the past... (please forgive me, I'm new!)

Does anyone know what exactly the factory alarm is comprised of? There seems to be lots of different answers. Engine kill, yes/no? Shock sensor, yes/no?

Probably agree with everyone who thinks it's sufficient. Too bad car manufacturers don't make these systems expandable or modular. They could make decent extra $$$ with additional alarm accessories.

Have LoJack in my GSR. Don't know if it was a good investment or not, but have lived in a couple tough areas and no real incidents (except for some punks who snapped off the wipers right before a snow storm). Of course it was better than having no alarm at all.

I'd like to pick up a TSX in the near future and am trying to determine all the costs. The car is definitely sweet. Finally got to a test drive last week. Wasn't able to push it (it was rush hour, bad timing, I know... =( Will have to go back soon!

I apologize to those who have no interest in this thread, or because it's been discussed before. Sorry 'bout that.

CGTSX2004

iTrader: (1)

The factory security system includes an ignition-kill, keyless entry, and basic break-in security (unlocking/break-in of door with security system still active).

You can, at the dealer, request the addition of a shock sensor for a price. Also, Lo/Jack is really a close call. I got my dealer to throw it in the deal when I leased the car, but it's really up to you how much protection you want. I do know that if the car is stolen, Lo/Jack pretty much guarantees you'll get the car back (though not always in new condition).

bigwilliestyle

Good info, thanks. Any general idea what the dealer quotes/MSRP might be on the shock sensor and/or LoJack?

Thanks a lot!

CGTSX2004

iTrader: (1)

Not sure about the shock sensor. We had it installed in our TL when we got it and I think it was around $200. The Lo/Jack for my TSX was probably about a $500 value for installation plus service until the end of the lease. I'm not sure though, so ask your dealership to spell it all out for you.

poltergeist

Any shock sensor a dealer puts in will be aftermarket. There are no "Acura accessories" for the factory installed security system.

The "immobilizer system" is a fuel pump bypass that is de-activated when the immobi receiver recognizes a proper key is being used to start the car.

The "security system" is separate, and essentially honks the horn/ flashes the lights anytime a door/trunk/hood is unlocked/opened without using the key in the lock or the remote transmitter.

bigwilliestyle

Cool. I'm a little curious about this "immobilizer system". Is this a standard way of providing an engine kill? It sounds reasonable to me.

Of course anybody who know what they're doing could bypass it, but it should be reasonably sufficient.

bigwilliestyle

Speaking of alarms, finally found this link. Make sure to check out the QuickTime video. It only costs ~$650 and is the ultimate in car protection!

http://www.cnn.com/WORLD/africa/9812...e.thrower.car/

CGTSX2004

iTrader: (1)

Damn...

I wonder if they would ever allow that into the States

poltergeist

Immobi is standard in any current Honda/Acura veh. Transponder in key head sends signal to receiver in steering column, to allow engine to start. Seems to have cut down on thefts in the last few years (at least on Hondas that I work on). Only drawback is keys are more expensive, and veh. has to be "programmed" to accept a new key.

xLusi0n

LoJack is weak...my friend had his Type-R stolen, reported it in an hour...and cops found the LoJack alright...sitting in a trash can...

I know a few other people that had it ripped out (but those were mainly getting their cars stolen over night and reporting it next morning)...1 hr was fast...

CGTSX2004

iTrader: (1)

The problem with Lo/Jack is finding a trustworthy installer. Often times the thefts where the Lo/Jack transponder is removed, the car was stolen by the guy who installed it or someone who has some relation to a Lo/Jack installer.