These days, cars are much more than a method of getting from A to B without having to wait for the bus. Instead, we take real pride and care over our vehicles, with a view to getting the most out of our investments over time. Which is why it hits us so much harder when someone decides to steal something that is so personal – something that you not only need to get to work but a vehicle in which you become attached to.
Enter car security devices. These little car accessories can act as a fantastic deterrent, as well as alerting you and your neighbors to a damaged or stolen car, as well as possibly helping you to even retrieve your car. Yet, with so many on the market, how can you be sure which car anti theft device is the best? Luckily, you have us, and we’ve scoured the internet to find the best car anti-theft devices on the market, today.
Below, we have collated some of the best car anti theft systems and given you everything you need to know about each item – so you can find the right anti theft car device for your needs.
The Best Car Anti-Theft Device
Optimus Tracker Anti-Theft Devices
One of the hardest parts about having your car stolen is being unable to get your car back – then dealing with the insurance agencies to prove it’s been taken and so on, and so forth. With his handy little anti theft device, however, you can actually track down and possible even retrieve your vehicle, without the thief ever knowing that you’re on your way.
This anti theft car GPS works by pinpointing exactly where your car is, as well as where it has been. Small enough to easily fit anywhere you feel appropriate in your car, yet powerful enough to help investigators know the exact location of your car’s whereabouts, this is the best anti-theft system for cars available, right now.
PROS
- Gives incredibly detailed reports that allow you to check movement, parking and so on
- Email and text alerts give you the information, as soon as you need it
- Real-time tracking allows you to keep close tabs on your car with this anti-theft device
CONS
- You will need to pay for a data plan
- This anti theft car GPS will need to be charged regularly
Winner International Steering Wheel Lock
An oldie but goldie – the simple car anti theft lock is one of the most effective options available to all drivers. They are made to block thieves from being able to turn your wheel after they have broken into your car, thus rendering them completely useless.
This particular option is a fantastic example of how a simple yet inexpensive addition to your car can help to deter unwanted attention. Made with solid steel and therefore extremely tough to break, this steering wheel lock will ensure that even saws can’t break through the tough anti theft car lock. It also has the benefit of being designed with high visibility colors, to deter thieves further, since they will have an added obstacle to their actions.
PROS
- The self-locking features makes this so easy to use
- The strong steel construction resists sawing, prying hammering and so on
- Universal fit for all cars
CONS
- Will require locking before and after every drive
- Company has recently had a bad batch of steering wheel locks
Spy Tec Anti Theft GPS Device
Another great GPS car anti theft system, this option from SpyTec is incredibly small, and can therefore fit anywhere without concern about being seen. This can ensure that your car isn’t broken in to, just to get the gadgets which are usually on show. With this GPS tracker, you could easily locate and return your car without great concern, as the geofencing and location tracker alert you when the “fence” is breached.
There’s an extremely long battery life with this GPS tracker, which can give a pinpoint location and even work across the globe when your data plan is activated. This can be extremely helpful for the more expensive cars which can often get a higher price in other countries.
PROS
- Small and compact, so can be easily hidden
- Small size is easy to place and carry
- Comes with 24/7 customer service, which is highly rated
CONS
- Will need recharging regularly
- Will need a data plan to continue use (cancel anytime)
Unelko Anti-Theft Device
A great option that is sure to put off even the most determined thief, this brake pedal security lock works by stopping the brake pedal from being accessible. Even so, the material of this anti theft car device is made from an electrically heat-treated, tempered steel which resists cuts, saws, hammers and bends without issue.
There are three keys which come with each purchase, that cannot be duplicated. Thus, the only real issue with this item is that you will need to get down and dirty when it comes to locking and unlocking your brake lock. This can be a real pain if you travel daily so, if you think you will get annoyed by this, it might be best to look into one of our other options.
PROS
- Locks the brake pedal completely, rending the car unmovable
- Heat-tempered steel resists attempts to move or break the pedal jack
CONS
- Can be awkward to set up and remove
- Needs adequate room between pedal and seat before installation
Baby Sense Anti Theft Device
If you prefer the security of having CCTV but don’t want to pay out thousands for a full, wired system, it’s always worth taking a look at baby monitors. Perfect keeping an eye on your car, baby monitors often have many of the best features you could want in a standard security system and this option is a prime example of this.
Coming with night vision and a crystal-clear display, you can easily keep an eye on your car while it’s parked. The long range means you’ll be able to view your parking space from a surprising distance, while the camera itself can pan or tilt to where you need it to go. It can also be wall-mounted for a more secure setting, and you can even link up more cameras to one screen should you see fit.
PROS
- Crystal clear display for easy viewing
- Work day and night with night vision viewing
CONS
- Does not act as a deterrent
- Shorter battery life when eco mode not in effect
OxGord Heavy Duty Automotive Anti Theft
A great, heavy-duty option that works as a visual deterrent for thieves, this wheel clamp can fit most wheel sizes – although there have been some complaints about larger tires and SUV’s being a little too wide for this wheel clamp. It is highly visible, which means that thieves would realize the extra effort required to free their prize and therefore immediately be put off from their crime, too.
There’s a one-year guarantee with this item, which is especially helpful as the entire anti theft device is open to the elements and therefore more likely to rust or wear out. However, it is very easy to unlock with a set of keys – just be aware that you may need to get on the floor every time you use this.
PROS
- Easily unlocked with keys (included)
- Acts as a highly visible option to deter theft
CONS
- Can be awkward to fit
- Being exposed to the elements can cause rust
MONOJOY Car Anti Theft Lock Device
One of the most common ways to enter and steal your vehicle these days is to use a signal repeater. By taken the signal from your key, your keyless-entry car can be opened and stolen without issue. Enter the key signal blocker. Perfect for these keyless cars, the signal blocker works against car hacking and keeps would-be car thieves from their prize.
These are compact, easy to use (with no set up required) and extremely effective. Simply place your keys into the case and your car will be kept safe from signal repeaters and therefore the theft of your car.
PROS
- No need to attach anything to your car
- Saves time and energy by being continually available
CONS
- Doesn’t work on key-entry cars
- Does not act as a deterrent
Winner International Car Theft Protection
A number one bestseller on Amazon, this twin-hook steering wheel lock provides added security, when compared to traditional steering wheel locks. The added benefit of the two hooks means you can attach both sides to the wheel, making it harder to break and bend out of place. This is further backed by a steel construction which resists sawing, prying and freon attacks.
Acting as a highly visible deterrent, this item comes with a patented self-locking feature that makes it so easy to use. Just be aware that you’ll likely need the right steering wheel to match the lock, as any different styles from the traditional design may not work well with this option.
PROS
- Very easy to use
- Acts a highly visible deterrent
CONS
- Can bend easily
- Some customers have complained about poor workmanship
Winner International Anti Theft Alert Signal
If you don’t want the hassle of adjusting or updating your car anti theft devices, a good option to go for is a decoy. This particular set comes as an LED box and decal set, which works by letting would-be thieves know you have an alarm system and the box itself acting as a fake car alarm.
This is a fantastic choice because it provides a full prevention-is-better-than-a-cure anti theft system by looking exactly like a professionally fitted alarm. The SA110 from Winner International is also available at a great price, making it the most cost-effective option on the market when it comes to anti-theft devices.
PROS
- Cheap and effective car theft deterrent
- Very long battery life
CONS
- Cheaply made and can break easily
- There have been problems reported with the switch catching on the outer box
Killswitchcentral Automotive Kill Switch Kit
Another cheaper option that is possible the most secure of all, this kill switch kit will stop thieves in their tracks, literally. These work by stopping the electrical current that runs from your ignition, into the most vital parts of the car, such as the fuel pump. Working only when the correct key isn’t used, this system can stop your car from being stolen without the need for expensive additions or visible deterrents.
With no damage to your car or engine with this option, this kill switch works on almost any vehicle without the need for electrical or mechanical experience. There are many easy how-to guides that are easy to follow, although if you are nervous with these types of experiences, it might be worth getting a mechanic to install it, for your peace of mind.
PROS
- Can lower insurance rate
- Can be mounted anywhere in the car
CONS
- No options available for hybrid vehicles
- Can be daunting for those with no mechanical or electrical experience
Our Top Pick
We love the GPS Tracker (Optimus 2.0 Bundle with Twin Magnet Case) from Optimus Tracker because it provides a simple yet solid solution to dealing with car theft. Acting as the best car theft protection gadget on the market, this small device can assist with locating not only your car, but the thieves themselves, thanks to the tracking app.
As an added benefit, this is a great choice for those who are also self-employed and looking to track mileage, whereabouts and so on, so as to claim on your deductibles. It also works brilliantly to keep an eye on any rogue teenagers or simple to check the speed and efficiency of your driving.
You will need to use a data plan in order to effectively use this GPS tracker for cars. However, if you feel that you are at risk of theft or simply want the peace of mind that comes with purchasing an item like this, then it is well and truly worth the money.
