In insurance terms, this is any feature pre-installed in your car that makes it harder to steal, or easier to track or recover. (You are welcome to use an after-market device like The Club, but we do not factor it in to the quote process.) Here are some common types of anti-theft devices and their descriptions:
Audible Alarm: obnoxiously loud enough for you to hear from at least 300 feet away, and which will go off for three minutes or more. Standard on many current cars.
Active Disabling Device: a cut-off system that you have to turn on to prevent the fuel, ignition, or starter from operating. Typically controlled by a button on your car key, active disabling devices are so called because they require you to take action to protect the car.
Passive Disabling Device: a cut-off system. In this case “passive” is actually better than “active,” and means “will protect your car without you having to do anything.” For example, smart chip keys which arm the system when you walk away, activate after the car has been locked for a certain time, or prevent operation if someone tries to hotwire the car. Insurers like these systems since they don’t require any driver action.
Car Recovery System: an electronic unit that can be activated after your car is stolen, which then provides the car’s location to police to help them recover your car.
(To be sure if your car has any of these, you can check your manual, or the specs on your car maker's website.)
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