Immobilisers, Alarms, Insurance and IVA

[V8 Vum]

Guys,

Getting to the point where I want to fit security system wiring to my car before I fit the cab. Having done a little research I am none-the-wiser as to:

1. What is required by IVA
2. What is required by most Insurance companies
3. Can I do away with the ignition key and barrel asnd go for some sort of RFID system in-line with simple on-off ign switch (suitably hidden).

Had a chat with an alarm bloke as well, but he made even more confusing saying most insurance companies would be happy with Cat2 immobiliser only?
He also asked if the GM std ECU hade any immobiser circuitry, and I have no clue!

so, can anyone give some guidelines?

[UltimaCH]

Buy a Doberman perhaps?

[Steve_D]

As you have no steering lock you will require an immobiliser. An FIA kill switch or removable steering wheel is not sufficient. You do not require an alarm although if you are fitting the immobiliser you may as well do an alarm.

Very odd IVA regs say you have to present an installation certificate for an alarm system but require no paperwork for the immobiliser.

There are no regs that I know of governing how the ignition is switched. However the system you use must not negate the immobiliser automatically disabling two prime circuits.

Steve

[V8 Vum]

OK, so what about insurance Companies in general for Ultimas - are they requiring Cat2 immobiliser or the full monty ie Cat 1 Alarm (which is a bit of an overkill for what is a Kit-car?

[Graham-P]

This might help a little, from Auto Bionics
http://www.autobionics.co.uk/Ultima%20specific%20I...


Graham

[V8 Vum]

Great - thats a help! - but what do Insurance Companies demand these days?

[Graham-P]

When I was phoning around for cover it all depended on the insurance company, one wanted Cat 1 and a tracker, one just wanted an immobiliser and one wasn't bothered if it had an alarm or not just insisted that when the car was home it was garaged.

[V8 Vum]

That is good news as I was beginning to think that Cat 1 alarm was a general requirement, which apparently it is not - relief!

cheers

[DHGTR]

I have just renewed and most wanted cat 1 or tracker.
Bear in mind that if you fit cat 2 this year and then change companies next year, you may have to upgrade to a cat 1.
Surely easier to fit cat 1 now, maybe spend £100-£150 on your £50000 ish car and not have to worry if the insurance will pay out if , a tree falls on it, stolen, catches fire.
The details of my insurance say that if my security device is not fitted then it is not covered in the event of such occurrences.

Dave

p.s. yes i know an alarm will not help when the tree attempts to break in.