5 Car Security Options to Help Lower Your Car Insurance Premiums

Would you like to pay lower car insurance premiums? If the answer is ‘yes’, finding out how to lower your car insurance will definitely interest you. At 1st for Women, we know how important your car is to your life, family and work. Car insurance has become a wise investment. Discover how car security systems and devices can help lower your premiums. 

The reason insurers care about car security

A car is an important asset for busy women. Your car is your go-to for the morning school run, work route, running errands, and so much more.  Imagine how you would be inconvenienced if you lost your car through theft! The shocking reality is that over the period 2018-2022, car hijackings[1] increased substantially in South Africa.

If your car is stolen and is not retrieved after a police investigation, you will have to file a car insurance claim for a stolen car. Insurers welcome methods to prevent car theft; better security is important in calculating car insurance premiums. 

Why a security feature helps lower car insurance premiums

There are several factors that car insurers consider when calculating a car insurance premium, including:

• Age of driver: The older you are, the lower your premiums because you are considered a lower risk. 

• Car make and model: High-end luxury car brands tend to attract a higher insurance premium.

• Driving record: A good driving record and few car insurance claims also help lower premiums.

• Where the car is parked at night: A car parked overnight in a locked garage behind a locked gate is more difficult to steal. If your vehicle is securely parked, you can get lower premiums.

Consider two car owners with similar cars, and everything else about them is the same — except one of the cars has an anti-theft device installed. Suppose that these owners apply for car insurance from the same company. The overall risk will be lower for the car with the anti-theft device, which could result in lower car insurance premiums. 

The best car anti-theft devices

When shopping around for a car anti-theft device, make sure that you choose one approved by the Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa[2] (VESA). VESA is the custodian of manufacturing and installation standards of car security systems. Here are some security systems to consider: 

1. Car alarm

The car alarm is one of the most popular anti-theft devices. It comes in two versions: a silent and an audible alarm. A silent alarm notifies a security company or the car owner. An audible alarm goes off in the immediate vicinity. Typically car alarm systems integrate both a silent and an audible alarm. They consist of the following:

• Sensors, switches and detectors

• A radio receiver

• A computer control unit

• A siren

• A backup battery

When someone tries to open a car, sensors and detectors pick up the disturbances. Depending on the setup, the computer control unit turns the alarm on and may also flash the headlights.

2. Car immobiliser

Another popular car security system is an immobiliser. The purpose of an immobiliser is to prevent your car from moving if certain actions are not undertaken. 

An immobiliser uses a receiver and a transponder in the car’s ignition. When you start the engine, the car requests a signal from the key. If it receives the correct signal, it allows the engine to start. 

3. GPS tracking devices

While car alarms and immobilisers are meant to prevent car theft, GPS tracking devices are helpful for recovering a stolen vehicle. It’s a good device to combine with a car alarm or immobiliser for added car security.

When you install a GPS tracking device, it connects with multiple satellites to pinpoint the location of your vehicle. GPS tracking devices are available as active or passive trackers. Active GPS trackers provide a real-time view of your car’s position. If your car is stolen, you can activate it to receive assistance as quickly as possible. A passive GPS tracking device stores your car’s location data. An operator will need to view it at a later stage. 

Some of the well-known GPS tracking device providers include the following:

• Netstar: For vehicle tracking and stolen vehicle recovery, Netstar is a reliable provider. Not only has this company been in this industry for more than two decades, but it also offers protection against signal jamming.

• Tracker Connect: Popularly known as Tracker South Africa, this company offers vehicle tracking and recovery solutions. 

• Beame: This provider offers easy-to-install tracking devices plus vehicle tracking solutions. It’s a good company if you’re looking for a budget-friendly car-tracking option.

• Cartrack: Offers real-time vehicle tracking and recovery services. 

• Matrix: This is a top choice for vehicle-tracking devices. It offers real-time tracking, panic buttons and warning theft alerts.

4. Mechanical locks

Another type of anti-theft device is a mechanical lock, which includes both steering wheel and gear stick locks.  

• Steering wheel lock: This metal rod connected to the steering wheel requires a key to unlock it. The steering wheel cannot be turned unless it’s unlocked. 

• Gear stick lock: This equipment locks the gear lever in one position, usually in neutral. If thieves try to steal your car, they can’t move it because they cannot engage the gears. Similarly to a steering wheel lock, you need a key to unlock the gear stick lock. 

5. Car security cameras

Car security cameras provide two functions: visibility around the car and security if paired with sensors. These cameras work like dashcams. With dashcams and GoPros, you can capture footage of a security alert. The most effective option for vehicle security is a car security camera connected to sensors. You can receive alerts on your phone. With this information and footage, you can quickly report the incident and receive assistance. 

Get lower insurance rates from 1st for Women

1st for Women understands the needs of women and knows how hard it is to get your hard-earned money to do more for you. That’s why we recognise your efforts when you choose to invest in the security of your vehicle by offering lower insurance rates. For more information or to request a free and no-obligation online car insurance quote, contact us today.

Sources:

[1] BusinessTech: Shocking number of hijackings in South Africa 

[2] VESA

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or medical advice.