How do I know if my car has anti-theft device?

If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with an anti-theft device, there are a few telltale signs to look for. Anti-theft systems are designed to deter and prevent vehicle theft, and understanding the features of these systems can help you determine if your car has one installed.

Identifying Anti-Theft Devices in Your Car

Here are some common indicators that your car has an anti-theft device:

• Indicator Light: Many cars have a small, blinking light on the dashboard that indicates the anti-theft system is armed and active. This light is often labeled with a car or key symbol.


• Key Fob: If your car came with a key fob or remote control, it likely has an anti-theft system that can be armed and disarmed using the fob. The fob may have a button that activates the system.


• Audible Alarm: Some anti-theft systems are equipped with a loud alarm that will sound if the car is tampered with or the doors are opened without the key fob present.


• Immobilizer: An immobilizer is an electronic security device that prevents the engine from starting unless the correct key is used. This is a common anti-theft feature in modern vehicles.


• Steering Wheel Lock: A physical steering wheel lock that attaches to the steering column is another type of anti-theft device found in some cars.

If you're still unsure, check your owner's manual or contact your car's manufacturer for more information on the specific anti-theft features included in your vehicle.

Understanding How Anti-Theft Devices Work

Anti-theft devices work by making it more difficult for thieves to steal your car. They can do this in a few different ways:

• Deterrence: The visible presence of an anti-theft system, such as a blinking indicator light or steering wheel lock, can deter would-be thieves from targeting your vehicle.


• Disabling the Vehicle: Immobilizers and other electronic security features prevent the engine from starting unless the correct key is used, making it impossible for thieves to drive away with your car.


• Triggering an Alarm: Audible alarms that sound when the car is tampered with can draw attention and scare off thieves.

By understanding the different types of anti-theft devices and how they work, you can better assess whether your car is equipped with these important security features.

How do I know if I have theft protection on my car?

This light typically blinks or stays illuminated signaling that the system is active. Next listen for sounds some systems emit a distinctive beep or chirp when activated.

How do I know what anti-theft device I have on my car?

To find out what anti-theft device you have, check your vehicle's owner's manual, contact the manufacturer or dealership, or inspect your car for installed devices like keyless entry fobs, audible alarms, or visible steering wheel locks. You can also determine if your system is passive (works automatically) or active (requires a button press) by observing how you arm and disarm the system.
 
Methods to identify your anti-theft device

• Consult your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for information on all installed security features. 
• Contact the dealership or manufacturer: They can look up your car's VIN to provide a detailed list of its standard anti-theft technology. 
• Inspect the vehicle:
  • Keyless entry: Look for a key fob with buttons or a keyless entry system where you don't need to insert a physical key. 
  • Audible alarm: If the alarm goes off, check your manual to see if it's an attention-catching alarm. You can test it by lightly pulling on a door handle after locking the car. 
  • Steering wheel lock: Look for a visible lock that attaches to the steering wheel. 
  • Motion sensors: Check for small sensors or devices inside the car that monitor for movement. 
  • Advanced features: Look for high-tech features like glass breakage sensors or an in-car display that indicates security status. 

Types of anti-theft systems

• Passive vs. Active:
  • Passive systems: are automatic and engage when you turn off the car, such as the engine immobilizer in many modern cars. 
  • Active systems: require you to press a button to arm them, such as with an alarm or a manually-engaged disabling device. 
• Internal vs. External:
  • Internal systems: are built into the car, like the engine immobilizer or the factory alarm. 
  • External devices: are add-ons you can install yourself, such as a steering wheel lock, car alarm, or GPS tracker. 
• High-tech vs. Low-tech:
  • High-tech systems: use transponder keys, rolling codes, and proximity sensors to communicate with the vehicle's computer systems. 
  • Low-tech systems: use physical devices that block access to the car, such as a physical steering wheel lock or a brake lock. 

How do I know if my car is in anti-theft mode?

You can tell your car is in anti-theft mode by a flashing security light on the dashboard (often a car with a lock or key icon), the engine not starting or cranking, or the alarm going off. Other signs include a completely unresponsive ignition when you turn the key, or the key not turning in the ignition at all. 
This video explains what anti-theft mode looks like and the sounds it might make: 44sSecurityFirstCorpYouTube · Nov 6, 2024
Common signs of anti-theft mode

• Flashing security light: Look for a blinking or steady light on your dashboard that typically looks like a car with a lock or key. A blinking light often means the system is active, while a steady light might indicate a system fault. 
• Engine won't start: The car may crank but not start, or the engine may be completely unresponsive when you try to start it. 
• Key doesn't work: The ignition may be unresponsive, or the key may not turn at all, even when you're using the correct one. 
• Alarm sounds: The car's alarm may be going off, or it might trigger when you try to unlock or start the car. 
• Steering wheel lock: In some cases, an activated system may cause the steering wheel to lock, making it difficult to turn. 

This video shows a common anti-theft light on a car's dashboard and some potential causes: 55sHelping HermitYouTube · Jan 3, 2025
What to do next

• Check the dashboard: Look for any warning lights, especially the security or theft light. 
• Try a different key: If you have a second key, try using it. The anti-theft system may have an issue with the first key. 
• Check the owner's manual: Consult your car's manual for specific information about its anti-theft system and how to troubleshoot it.
• Contact a professional: If you can't solve the problem yourself, a professional can diagnose the issue and reset the system if necessary. 

Do cars automatically come with an anti-theft device?

When buying your car, it might come with some built-in anti-theft mechanisms (this is the case for many new cars nowadays). Simply check with your auto manufacturer. Alternatively, if you feel like upgrading your car after you've had it for some time, just get yourself some additional security systems.