Just wondering if some kind soul can put me out of my misery. We have recently purchased a 93 Townace, which has no alarm fitted. As we are overseas for the next couple of years but want to fit an alarm in preparation for our return, can anyone recommend one which will suffice and also save us on insurance? I have seen a link somewhere on the site, but It's doing my head in as I can't find it now!! It mentioned a problem with wiring in the alarm so that it shuts the electric windows. We are used to doing that now anyway, so an alarm that has ultrasonic & shock sensors,an immobiliser and a good warning siren/voice (not too sure if they work well, just sound different).
I look forward to your opinions.

- (#9550) James, 12 Jul 03 19:37

Hello James,

If you are after saving money on the insurance then you're after a thatcham approved alarm and/or imobiliser. It must be fitted by an assured installer and you will recieve a certificate to show that it has been installed by an approved installer.

If you search your local yellow pages, you should come across "car alarms and security" which will have a list of installers in your area. For one of the better quality alarms such as "Toad" or "Clifford" then in my area you are looking at about £330 or for a thatcham approved imobiliser only at about £120.

It just depends on whether you feel this price gives you peace of mind and saves you enough on your insurance to warrant the outlay.
- (#9551) Mark, 13 Jul 03 14:48

My Cobra (Thatcham approved) was installed for £230.
Now have remote central locking, for £50 more could have had remote starting as well. Did not get much of a discount on insurance. The shuting of the windows was not an option with the alarm and Toyota wiring, but as I rarely drive with them open as I have the A/C on not a problem to me.

- (#9552) Clive, 14 Jul 03 1:36