Anti-Theft device options? (with a hot-wiring question!)

[ziphem]

I'm glad I found this site!

I am going to moving to one of the more crime-ridden cities in less
than a few months, and I'm starting to look at anti-theft devices. The
three I were considering were:
1. PowerLock (http://www.powerlock.com/pricinginfo.html)
2. Viper GPS Tracking unit (http://www.drdetailshop.com/v200.htm)
3. Scosche RSA2900F (http://www.uscaraudio.com/cgi-bin/ussto ... o=RSA2900F).


First, the PowerLock - is hotwiring difficult to do with the more
modern cars? I have a Volvo 2001 S80, and I can't imagine that it's as
easy as ripping out a few wires, making it possible to steal the car in
under 30 seconds. But maybe I'm wrong?

Then, how about the Viper GPS tracking system? My concern is that
someone could just easily check for this and rip it out or disable it.

Finally, the Scosche item looks pretty cool, it would tell me if there
is a break-in into my car. Of course, this alone would be pretty
useless, cause someone could drive away before I even get out to the
car...and then I'm back at my first question - how difficult is it to
hotwire a 2001 Volvo?

Thanks for any help!!

[Rhiordan]

Unless there are marked differences between the built-in "immobilizer" function between the 1999 and 2001 model years, it's probably 100% unnecessary to put in any other anti-theft system.

The immobilizer is tied into the ignition system and is built around a tiny radio chip in each key (see many discussions on this forum about replacing your volvo S80 keys - can only be done by the dealership for this reason). The chip in the key sends a weak signal which is picked up by an antenna built into the steering column key receiver. Without the correct RF signal being received, the car will crank (power to the accessories and the engine turns over), but will not run (no spark or fuel).

Volvo staunchly maintains that the immobilizer function "cannot" be turned off - it's too much a part of a host of systems. Based on my own experiences with the immobilizer, I would strongly recommend that you not put any additional resources into anti-theft (apart from good insurance coverage).

David J.