Autowatch Alarm Query

[okgo]

Bought a new car, and it has an autowatch system installed, however I have two owners manuals for the system, one says 161 RLi/T, the other says 161 RL/T..

I have the fobs, which work fine in unlocking the car and such with the necessary beep, I was wondering if anyone knew how I could find out what rating this had for insurance purpose, and why the car has two systems seemingly installed..

Also what is the purpose of the chip reader inside the car, where you press the fob into it.. What does that do?

Thanks

[Nolar Dog]

If it has a "chip reader" it will be a Thatcham Cat 1 alarm/immobiliser.

The remote fobs arm and disarm the full system.

However if (for example, when you are putting fuel in car with passengers remaining inside) you don't arm the alarm with the fob, the immobiliser will automatically arm (approx) 30 seconds after switching the ignition off.

You "disarm" the immobiliser by swiping the fob over/into/across the "chip reader" upon return to the car.

ETA: IIRC the RL model is the Category 2 to 1 upgrade whereby an alarm is incorporated to work with a vehicles fattory fitted remote central locking and immobiliser functions. This system would be armed by the OEM remote keyfob.

The RLi is a "stand alone" Cat 1 system that is operated by its own remotes/fobs.

Edited by Nolar Dog on Sunday 8th February 16:19

[okgo]

So if I get out of the car, with they keys, don't lock it and carry on filling up, when I get back in the car it won't start until I swipe the chip reader?

If its cat-1 that should have an effect on insurance then?

[Nolar Dog]

okgo said:

So if I get out of the car, with the keys, don't lock it and carry on filling up, when I get back in the car it won't start until I swipe the chip reader?

Correct.

okgo said:

If its cat-1 that should have an effect on insurance then?

Potentially, yes. Do you have an installation certificate for it?

[okgo]

Well this is the issue, it has not been filled in, it was still sealed in its packet..Any ideas?

[Nolar Dog]

The only legitimate way would be to find your local VSIB approved car alarm installer.

Book an appointment for them to test/confirm the alarm is installed and in working condition then get them to fill in the certificate and stamp it with their VSIB number.

Should only take an hour max and they'll probably charge you about £30-40 I should imagine.

You can't (and shouldn't) really fake it as you haven't got a VSIB stamp.

[okgo]

Ok, thanks. I presume the insurer will ask for receipt of this in order to adjust the premium.

In your opinion would you carry both the Honda fob, and the Autowatch fob?

[Nolar Dog]

okgo said:

Ok, thanks. I presume the insurer will ask for receipt of this in order to adjust the premium.

They will presumably want to see evidence of an installation certificate. Either at renewal or if/when you claim for theft of vehicle. Depends on the company.
May not actually reduce your premium either depending on your circumstances.

okgo said:

In your opinion would you carry both the Honda fob, and the Autowatch fob?

I wouldn't bother with the Honda fob as it is "superceded" by the Autowath one, assuming the alarm is wired to operate your central locking.

Also there are programmable options such as locking with ignition. When you put the ignition on the doors will lock. Ignition off, they unlock.
Can't remember if that can be done by end user. Manual may mention?

[okgo]

Ok, I have not insured the car yet so will shop around..

Yes it is programmed into the central locking, so no problem there. It does mention these options yes, but I will book it into the local guys and they can tell me what it can do extra, truth be told I don't want it doing to many silly things when I am in the car.

[Nolar Dog]

Hope you get it sorted.

Happy New Car by the way.

[okgo]

Thanks for all your help, not many threads where its just one person and the OP contributing

[Nolar Dog]

Not many car alarm threads (start off)in the Pie & Piston either.

Pleasure to help.

Edited by Nolar Dog on Sunday 8th February 17:23