Technology has improved greatly across nearly every aspect of everyday life. One of the areas which has seen significant development is the security features designed for today’s automobiles.
Auto theft remains a significant problem. More than 1.2 million vehicles are stolen each year in the U.S. Many of those are never recovered, or are found damaged.
New autos today come with a wide variety of security systems, such as immobilizers, to prevent theft and lower car insurance quotes. These can prevent criminals from starting a vehicle or even help authorities quickly locate a stolen vehicle.
Automakers respond to needs
The constant improvements allow for automakers to include extra protection for models which are often targeted by thieves.
For example, a report from the Highway Loss Data Institute said the Cadillac Escalade had the highest rate of theft from 2008 to 2010, as thieves continued to target the high-end SUVs.
On the same day the results of the study were released, General Motors announced that four new security features were included in the design of the 2012 Escalade, including alarms that would be triggered if criminals tried to load it onto a truck and a wheel lock to prevent the theft of its rims and tires.
Better security creates insurance discounts
Because the new security features reduce the chances a vehicle will be stolen – lowering the risk for insurance companies – those looking for auto insurance quotes on them may find they qualify for significant discounts.
The newest security methods to reduce theft include advanced vehicle recovery systems, which can allow authorities to track a theft in progress and even force the vehicle to slow down as police approach it.
Another security technique – VIN etching – allows for the car’s unique vehicle identification number to be imprinted on the windows and doors the vehicle. That makes a vehicle much less appealing to professional thieves, since they know the numbers must be removed before the car is resold.
The actual discount will vary based on the company and the level of security involved, so it is important to shop around to find the lowest insurance rates. However, some insurers say drivers could see their premium for comprehensive coverage – the part of the policy which covers theft – drop by 25 percent or more.