With summer around the corner, it's time to get the old MG out of the carport and back on the street. After a recent run of 'interesting' events involving cars being vandalised etc, I've decided it's time to fit an alarm to my car.

I'd need something that can:

a) Immobolise car
b) Protect bonnet / boot / doors
c) Detect movement inside a convertible with it's roof left off - microwave sensor?
d) Tilt / movement sensor?

The car itself isn't that valuable, but it does have lots of nice 'bits' like steering wheels, gearknobs, stereo bits etc.

Is that acheivable for under $500? What brands / models should I look for? Recommend any good quality and value installers in Adelaide?

I don't need/want remote start, or paging abilities etc. Any info will be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
Andres

If you have a look on the Dynamco website (www.dynamco.com.au) they list quite a few models with the features your after, and are available through your local Autobarn/Strathfield/JB from memory.

Cheers - I'll have a look through that website.

Normally I'd install any stereo gear myself, and certainly not get a JB / Autobarn / Strathfield to do it - but with an alarm, is it best left to the pros? Not to mention, best worth avoiding the 'cheapo' installers?

Gonna call my insurer this arvo, and see what they say about alarms etc.

dont get micro sensors for inside i had some when the roof open even wind makes the alarm go off so dissabled it and its fine just my opinion

I thought Ultrasonic sensors could be set off my wind / lack of roof, but Microwave ones didn't? U sure it was a microwave and not ultrasonic?

Anyway, I went and spoke to my insurer (Shannons) and oddly enough having an alarm fitted has no bearing on their insurance premiums?! Might look into doing it myself in that case, as it's not going to matter if it's installed by a licensed installer or not (assuming I don't stuff it up!)

A microwave is defininately the way to go for a soft top. If set up properly it will protect with the roof on or off.

In regards to Tilt sensor its best to ensure that its a true digital tilt sensor and not some form of mercury switch. Although dearer the digital tilt sensor will never false alarm.