Recommended aftermarket alarm models - and installers

[Ansible]

Good morning!

The new baby ('91) didn't come with the remote entry system - never installed. This is an annoyance. So, it's off to the aftermarket to find one that includes the door remote entry (with chirp!) and remote popper for the trunk. Okay, I'm lazy & spoiled.

First question: Should I look for a simple keyless entry system, or for a system that includes a new alarm? I.e., is the built-in alarm "good enough"?

Second: Any feedback on the Best Buy Viper 211HV keyless entry ($149 installed) or Viper 350HV keyless+security ($219 installed)?

Third: Any other advice? As an alternative to Best Buy (about whom I've heard mixed reviews), are there any good installers in the SF Bay Area that you would recommend?

By the way, I've read through the Forum, and although most of the message threads appear old, the consensus seems to be that a) the built-in alarm is not very good, and b) that when installing a new alarm system, it's best to permanently disable the built-in one first. Is that still the consensus?

 

[BATMANs]

I've used Best Buy in Mountain View for:

• NSX keyless entry parts and labor
• NSX HID conversion
• GTO HID conversion
• Sonoma HID conversion
• Sonoma & S-10 full stereo conversion

and will be using them for the NSX and GTO full stereo conversion

ZERO issues and backed by a LIFETIME service guarantee. Prices are cheaper than the mom/pop shops.

 

[stevieray122854]

By today's standards, the OEM alarm is woefully lacking. In fact, none of my cars still use the factory alarm and personally, I use DEI alarm / remote start systems. Any of the Python/Viper/Clifford systems are good, the Python Responder units are great and almost all of them are now SmartStart capable, meaning that you can start and monitor your car from your iPhone or Android. There is also a SmartStart GPS unit that allows you to track your car's location. Go here to check them out:

http://www.directed.com/Default.aspx

 

[Ansible]

Thanks — I'm leaning toward getting the alarm work done.

When you had the aftermarket alarm installed, did you have them put a new LED bulb into the car (and if so, where?), or wire it into the existing driver's door alarm LED?

(Not sure that I understand the need for remote start - it's not like we're in snow country.)

 

[stevieray122854]

Thanks — I'm leaning toward getting the alarm work done.

When you had the aftermarket alarm installed, did you have them put a new LED bulb into the car (and if so, where?), or wire it into the existing driver's door alarm LED?

(Not sure that I understand the need for remote start - it's not like we're in snow country.)

You can wire the alarm into the bulb in the door or mount a little red LED on the instrument cluster bezel, however what I have used in several of my cars is this:

It's a flashing electroluminescent indicator about the size of a matchbook that I've had installed in the lower left corner of the windshield on 3 of my cars and it seems to do the job as I've never had a break-in, not even an attempt. I want a potential thieving dirtbag to know that I have an alarm, he just has no idea of how sophisticated it might be. They can be had here. In the bay Area, you may not see the need for Remote Start but here in Nashville in the winter, it can be 65 one morning and 20 the next so they do come in handy at times. BTW, I wouldn't let Best Buy touch my lawnmower. They might be fine for a Camry but an NSX? I think not. Do your due diligence and find a shop that specializes in custom car audio, ask to see some of their work (the good ones will have awards & photo albums of their jobs) and talk to the installers. You'll be able to tell who's a pro and who's just a schoolkid passing thru. Good luck---

 

[etang789]

I would recommend going with the new Viper 5704, and go to a proven installer in your area.

http://viper.com/P-5704V/Viper-5704-Responder-Lc3-Supercode-Sst-2-way-Security-And-Remote-Start-System

This Viper 5704 LED light is located on the antenna, so its highly visible. If you want more specific light indicators can use the product mentioned above.

 

[Ansible]

Thanks, Etang,

I was looking at the Viper systems yesterday at Best Buy.

Viper's high-end systems like the 5704 are focused on the remote start functionality, which I don't want — added complexity, more expensive, more messing around with the car's systems during the installation (esp. with a stick shift), and frankly, it seems unnecessary in a warm climate.

I'm thinking of the Viper 3203/3303, which seems to be the same thing but w/o the remote start.

 

[Ansible]

Friends,

Am considering two local places re: the alarm. (Frankly, I was unimpressed with the tech at Best Buy in Colma during my visit yesterday.) Do any of you have experience with:

Sound and Alarm in Daly City: http://soundandalarm.com/

Audio Images in Burlingame: http://ai-sf.com/

I will visit both this afternoon, but would appreciate any feedback!

 

[stevieray122854]

Whoa! Those Sound and Alarm installs are impressive, especially that S2K. Believe I'd check them out for sure and it'd be hard to go wrong with that Viper 3303 if what you want is security only.

 

[etang789]

Thanks, Etang,

I was looking at the Viper systems yesterday at Best Buy.

Viper's high-end systems like the 5704 are focused on the remote start functionality, which I don't want — added complexity, more expensive, more messing around with the car's systems during the installation (esp. with a stick shift), and frankly, it seems unnecessary in a warm climate.

I'm thinking of the Viper 3203/3303, which seems to be the same thing but w/o the remote start.

Just dont install the remote start function, its just as simple to install just about 15 wires, I can do a DIY guide later. Then you gain the 2 way alarm features. And you would save a ton if you buy online, like on amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Viper-5704-Responder-Security-Remote/dp/B005ZHFXKU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330158507&sr=8-1