Anti Theft System Help
 

Hello,

I would like to know if there is a way to add a switch to block the starting of the vehicle or any other kind of additional protection from theft. I am planning to have this lock installed http://www.zeder.rs/zeder.php?lng=en but I heard that even that is possible to be bypassed.

I have a friend who added a switch that needed to be presses before you could start the car. It is somehow connected to the clutch. I have an automatic, so this kind of protection will not work for me. I do have an option to enter a code that is required to be entered before you can start the car but anything that is from the manufacturer is easily bypassed.

I am in an eastern European country where they steal these kind of cars a lot.

Thanks for your help,

salenks
X5 3.0i 2003
Automatic Transmission

As far as I know the X5 has an inbuilt imobiliser as part of the standard alarm system... Although it is "from the manufacturer" it should still be pretty effective. For added peace of mind though a lock like the one you are looking at is a good idea. You can also look at the simple on the dash steering locks, as visible protection is often a better deterant as it at least stops them smashing a window only to findout they can't start the car.

Amazon.com: Master Lock 263DAT Titanium High Security Steering Wheel Lock:…

Theft in South Africa is about the worst in world but most BMW's are taken at gun point when you stop at an intersection or at your drive way. No amount of secuity devices (other than a 9mm) is going to help you then! We have satellite tracking systems installed so that when your cars is stolen you can track it and get it back... sometimes!

Cartrack - Putting you back in control

Yes a secret push button switch and hold-on-relay is usually the way to go. The relay is wired to open the circuit to the fuel pump (or other critical engine circuit). when the ignition is turned off. When the ignition is turned on again, the relay must first be reset by a push of the secret switch to power on the fuel pump.

You will need to research the wiring to identify the fuel pump/relay circuit and decide where to hide the secret switch.

Of course your car is unlikely to be stolen unless your keys are also stolen (as the corresponding chip in the key is needed by the ECU to allow ignition). Therefore the thief first breaks into your house to get the keys.

I would not bother with the rather expensive looking steering lock as a heavy chain and lock visibly attached around the wheel/seat mounting is usually enough to deter a thief and persuade him to move on and find an easier car to steal. (Obviously keys for ad-on security devices should not be kept with the car keys!).

The company that sells the lock I posted also sells a very effective steering wheel lock they call the Claw (which you should also be able to see on the same site). However, the steering wheel lock is easier to bypass.

As far as the coded key, I don't know how they do it but they do steal these kind of cars without the original keys. I know they can unlock the car with a laptop within seconds.

If I get the Zeder lock they put the sticker on the window which shows it is installed. Thieves usually stay away from those cars but if they really want it, they will take it. They even use a flatbed tow trucks to take the cars.

I will probably try something with a switch, I just don't know what kind of switch I need and where to place it. I someone can explain that in detail, that would be great.

Also, is there a way to lock the hood somehow?

Thanks for quick and helpful responses.