Help with car security feature for Auto Express magazine

[Saabstudent]

Okay, I’m trying to organise a feature for the magazine (auto Express) on what to do when your car alarm (aftermarket) suddenly fails. I’ve just been dropped like a hot potato from Cobra UK and need to get this sorted asap, so I was hoping someone on here might work for, or even know a company that specialises in Car security.

We’d like to come along to a fitter’s workshop with a car with a failed alarm and follow the process as the this is rectified and a new system fitted.

In terms of what we’d like to answer in the feature it would be along the lines of;

Can you get new alarm fobs for older (5yrs +) systems, and how much do they cost? Can you sort this yourself or do they need to be re-coded by a pro?

If the car is immobilised on your drive (or somewhere even more inconvenient) who can you call?

If it’s not something as simple as the fob, how do you find the problem – or again, should this be left to the pros?

If it’s not something simple, do you need to strip out the whole alarm installation and replace completely or can you change individual components? How long does this take (on avg) and how much does it cost?

When does it get to the point where it makes more sense to strip out and replace rather than try and chase a fault to repair?

What other security options are out there apart from conventional alarms – tracker, mechanical security etc?

What are the different categories of alarms, and the differences between them (cat1, cat 2-1 etc)?

Does anyone know of anyone that might be interested in helping us with this? We’re prepared to travel (within reason – I.e. not Aberdeen etc) and would be looking to complete the session/shoot early next week.

Obviously from the company’s point of view there would be coverage in the magazine consisting of a full-page feature. There would also be website content with contact info which usually encourages those with similar problems to get in touch with the company mentioned – think of it as free advertising.

Anyway, if anyone has any contacts they could recommend or get in touch with that would be great.

Cheers,
G

[redgriff500]

No one will want to do this.

All of the companies I've ever heard of want to rip out the old system and sell you a new one - simply as this is straightforward and makes them plenty of money.

[TheEnd]

OK, the problems are
1) as mentioned, no one will want to do a feature on repairing their faulty goods, and no installer will want to work on half a faulty system
2) the other point- this will generally be a guide on how to bypass an aftermarket alarm.

might as well do a feature on top ten sparkplugs to pop a window, or best places to sell stolen car stereos.


It would be hugely stupid of autocar to do a feature on how to get round car alarms, which leaves the other half of how to fit an alarm, which for thatcham ratings, needs to be installed by a certified installer, who again won't want to show how and where they fit it.
That leaves an article on how to call 118-118 for an auto electrician.