So is it possible to learn how to install a car alarm in your RV?
According to the RV Industry Association, approximately 10 million households own an RV in the U.S. The takeaway from such statistics is that RVs are an important component of the American lifestyle.
However, only a few people think of securing their RVs using an alarm system. Some think it’s an expensive undertaking while others are simply oblivious to the benefits of having an alarm system.
With the right information, you can easily do it. All you need to do is learn about the alarm options available, the tools for installation, and the process. As you learn about the benefits of installing such a system, you will begin to appreciate why it’s necessary.
Why You Should Install a Car Alarm in Your RV
As an RV camper, you probably feel secure from the sense of community that often builds while you interact with other campers. The truth is that in just a few short moments, your exciting adventure can turn into a nightmare.
Cases of RV theft, vandalism, or even attacks from wild animals are not as rare as you may think. However, if you know how to install a car alarm in your RV, you may prevent a lot of unfortunate occurrences.
Acts as a deterrent
A lot of thieves prefer targeting a vehicle with no alarm than one with a state-of-the-art security system. If you learn how to install a car alarm in your RV, you will deter not only thieves from the act but also enjoy other benefits.
Ease of tracking
Some car alarm systems incorporate tracking systems. So if by chance your RV is stolen, investigators can easily track the vehicle without the thieves even realizing it.
Better insurance bargains
If you learn how to install a car alarm in your RV, you can get better insurance bargains. A car that has a modern security system gets lower premiums from most insurance companies.
Remote control over the RV
Some car alarm systems use smart technology to give remote operation by the owner of the RV. If someone steals or breaks into the RV, you can disable some functions of the vehicle right from your smartphone.
Timely alerts
There are some car alarm systems that either use audible sound or send text notifications to alert owners of impending danger. Such systems can help warn you in case someone or a wild animal is nearby.
Types of Car Alarms to Install in Your RV
Before you learn how to install a car alarm in your RV, take time to consider the options available.
Active and passive alarm systems
While both an active and passive car alarm system can protect your RV, it is crucial for you to make a suitable choice based on your needs.
A passive car alarm turns on automatically immediately you remove the key from the ignition and lock all the doors. The term passive stems from the fact that you do not do anything to arm the alarm.
An active car alarm such as the UniquExceptional Motion Activated Alarm with Keypad also turns on once you have removed the key from the ignition and locked all the doors. However, the term active stems from the fact that you must turn on the alarm by clicking a button on a remote.
If you do not play an active role in turning on the alarm, the system will not be armed, and that leaves your RV vulnerable to different risks. Some alarm systems allow you to switch from active to passive modes of arming. However, some of those systems may require professional upgrades before such a function activates.
The choice of which system best suits your needs depends on your needs. A passive alarm provides overall security to the RV. The downside is that just about anything can trigger it, including yourself or a cat. This may end up being quite annoying, say if you were deep asleep or on a telephone call.
An active alarm system offers convenience because you arm it when you want and leave it inactive when there is no apparent risk to the RV. The problem with this type of alarm system is that you may forget to arm it and that may lower overall security.
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Two-way paging car alarms
Two-way paging car alarms are systems that have the capability of sending notifications regarding status. This communication takes place between the system and the fob on the driver’s key or a smartphone. The alerts may have information, including break-ins, scratches, and motion detection.
Audible car alarms
Audible car alarms are the simplest types of car alarms. They utilize sensors positioned at strategic parts of the vehicle. If anything disturbs these sensors, a loud horn activates letting everyone know something is amiss. The sensitivity of these sensors can be adjusted to detect the slightest motion or trigger only when there is a significant disturbance.
How to Install a Car Alarm in Your RV: The Process Explained
When thinking of how to install a car alarm in your RV, the first thing to do is prepare by making a checklist of all the tools you will need.
What you will need
- Electrical tape
- Hand drill
- Soldering iron or crimping tool
- Wire strippers
- Zip ties
Choose an aftermarket alarm
Aftermarket car alarms can easily install in an RV as long as you customize them. They are often compatible with a variety of sensors on the market, which is why they are an excellent choice.
Determine what you want from an alarm system
Choosing a particular type of car alarm you want can be quite a challenge. Alarms have different features, which is why you should pick something that closely meets your desires. Some of the characteristics to consider include:
- If the alarm can detect when the door is ajar while driving or locked
- What kind of activity can be detected by sensors including impact, touch and window smashes
- Can the car alarm immobilize the vehicle on command?
- If the car alarm can secure the hood and trunk
- Does the alarm produce a loud sound or sends notifications or both
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Step by Step: How to Install a Car Alarm in Your RV
Once you have figured out everything you need, it’s time to get to the nitty-gritty of how to install a car alarm in your RV.
Step 1: What’cha gonna do?
At this point, you should think of the amount of time you want to spend on the installation. Lay out all your tools and read through the alarm installation guide carefully. Disable the car battery and take note of existing wiring and airbags before you start. Any connection to the airbag circuit may end up causing problems.
Step 2: Mount up
Dismantle your RV’s panels to gain access to the wiring system. Assess the kind of wiring done and determine the best points to utilize when installing wires. Pick a spot that seems most hidden from view and mount the alarm there. This will ensure that no intruder can tamper with your alarm.
Use screws and tape to hold the alarm in position. Be careful not to drill through to the other side as that can cause damage. You might also want to install a valet switch to disarm the alarm during repairs.
Step 3: Is that a siren?
Install the siren in the engine bay near the alarm. Place the siren facing downward to avoid damage by water and ensure there are no obstructions nearby.
Step 4: Careful, careful
Run the wire through the points you determined to be safe. Drill a hole through the firewall if there is no pre-existing hole for this. Note that a firewall is what separates the engine from the interior.
Step 5: Hey there, Mr. Car
Refer to your installation manual to identify the alarm’s computer and connect the wire in the specified input. It is the computer that powers the alarm system and processes most of its functions.
Step 6: The sensors need to … uh … sense
Install the sensors at the points you determined to be ideal. This could be the door, hood, or window. Wire the sensors to the specified inputs of the alarm’s computer. It is the sensors that will send timely signals to the computer for quick translation and response in case of a breach.
Step 7: Let there be light!
Install your LED light on the dash of the RV because that is the ideal position. Screws can fasten it safely in place, but if you wish, you can also use super glue for mounting. An LED light often indicates when the alarm is armed.
Step 8: Is that an antenna or is your RV just happy to see you?
If your alarm has wireless capabilities, you need to install an external antenna to increase range. This antenna should ideally connect to the brain or computer. Most antennas can easily mount on the glass or top of the RV.
Verify That Everything Is in Place and Test the System
Once you are through with the steps on how to install a car alarm in your RV, ascertain that everything is in place. Crimp any wires that may be out of place and verify that your wiring is running through a clear path with no possible interference.
Read through the installation manual once again to be sure. If everything is fine, activate the car’s battery and the alarm system. Try touching the doors, and trunk to see if the alarm triggers as intended. Reinstall your RV’s panels and test the alarm system once more.
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