Review of mechanical anti-theft systems for cars and instructions for homemade anti-theft systems

02/06/2022 1,367 Mechanical protection

Author: Victor

Anti-theft mechanical devices for cars can be used as a primary or additional security device. They are divided into eight types, depending on which element of the car will be blocked. In this case, it is enough to install just one type of device to prevent theft.

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What types of anti-theft mechanical devices are there for cars?

Automotive devices designed to protect the car are divided into several groups:

• for gearbox;
• to protect the engine compartment;
• on the steering shaft;
• for ignition switch;
• on the car door;
• for steering wheel;
• on the pedal;
• for installation on wheels.

Transmission locks

This type of locking device is divided into several types:

1. Arc devices. When turned on, these models lock the transmission lever in a certain position. The lock is secured using a special bracket that wraps around the gearbox lever. Modern models of devices are equipped with special larvae characterized by high cryptographic resistance. To ensure the highest possible security, a floating password is used, making hacking almost impossible. The key disadvantage of gearbox locks is the large size of the devices.
2. Pin blockers. This type of device is considered more advanced compared to the arc lock for gearboxes. The main component of the design is a steel pin, which is used to lock the gearbox. When activated, driving the vehicle will be impossible. The body of the device is made of high-strength steel. Compared to arc locks, pin devices fit harmoniously into the interior of the car.
3. Pinless type of blockers. This type of device is considered more modernized. The process of blocking a manual transmission or automatic transmission is performed directly inside the device. Activation and deactivation of equipment occurs only using a key.

Pin transmission lock

Pinless blocker

Arc gearbox lock
The ProSecurity channel talked about which gearbox lock is best to use to effectively prevent car theft.

Hood locks

This type of device is designed to protect elements and assemblies located in the engine compartment. The level of reliability of the device is determined by the security of the larva itself. If this component is vulnerable, it can be easily hacked.

The main disadvantage of hood locking devices is the low security of the drive cable, which is designed to open it. If a criminal gains access to this element, he will hack the device without entering the car interior.

Steering locks

This protection option is designed to prevent the steering wheel from turning. The devices are installed directly under the column, next to the pedal.

Structurally, such a blocker consists of several elements:

• locking device;
• locking mechanism;
• automatic latch;
• coupling;
• screws;
• key or secret button.

The principle of operation of the locking device is to fix the steering shaft using a coupling, which consists of several elements.
This part rotates along with the steering wheel when the lock is not working, so it is impossible to notice it. To turn on the device, the car owner needs to install the locking mechanism in the groove and close the device. This will lead to the fact that on one side the steering wheel, when turning, will rest against the engine shield, and on the other, against the pedal. The steering shaft lock is difficult to pick. The most effective type of locking devices are devices with secret buttons that do not use keys. You can bypass such a mechanism only by cutting it with a grinder.

The channel “Andrey Kondrashov - copyright protection against theft” presented a test of popular locks for steering shafts and talked about the advisability of their use.

Ignition switches

If a hacking attempt occurs, the contacts in the device will open, which should close when the power unit starts. When installing the lock, its switch should be brought out and masked. Otherwise, the criminal will be able to start the internal combustion engine. Ignition switches can be touch controlled or radio controlled.

Locking devices of this type are made of high-strength alloy steel. The design of the lock is based on a high-secrecy mechanism. Depending on the model, the blocker can be additionally equipped with protection for the starter unit from being turned on again.

To install the ignition switch, it is recommended to contact specialists; there is a risk of making a mistake when performing the task.

Door locks

This type of device is used to prevent an intruder from entering the car. Devices of this type are presented in the form of a metal pin that blocks the door if it is not locked. Activation of the device is carried out using a key or key fob, it all depends on the type of device.

Steering wheel locks

This type of system is used for mounting on the steering wheel rim or in its spoke. The principle of protection is based on the fact that the criminal will not be able to turn the steering wheel in the event of a break-in. The second part of the lock product will always rest against the door or dashboard of the car. There are devices for the steering wheel, one part of which is placed directly on it, and the second - on the pedal.

Steering wheel-dashboard lock

Steering wheel lock with emphasis on the dashboard/pillar/ceiling

Steering wheel lock

Steering wheel lock with pedal

You can bypass such a device without any difficulties. But if the device is equipped with a secret, then this will be problematic.

The “Baza Avtozvuka” channel talked about protective devices designed for installation on wheels.

Pedal locks

There are two types of anti-theft devices of this type:

1. Thrust mechanisms that prevent pressing the gas or clutch pedal. The main disadvantage of such a device is the inconvenience of installation. But this minus for the consumer can become a plus, since it is almost impossible to hack the larva if it is stolen. Due to the inconvenient location, even a weak secret will not be able to be opened.
2. Supporting devices. A device of this type blocks the possibility of moving the pedal with one part, and the second clings to the steering wheel of the car. Installation is simpler than thrust mechanisms, but this type of device is characterized by large dimensions.

Support mechanism

Pedal lock (thrust)

Wheel locks

They are designed to block the drive wheel, making it impossible to move the machine. The product is mounted on top and secured to the disk. The main disadvantage is the inconvenience of operation. The device is large in size, so it must be carried in the trunk.

The use of wheel locks is important if the car remains in an unguarded parking lot for a long time.

User Yulia Nikitina in her video showed the operating features and effectiveness of car wheel locks.

approximate cost

The approximate cost of manually installing one or another mechanism or using special simple means for car anti-theft protection is presented in the table.

You can choose to buy a semi-finished system and install it yourself, or you can buy spare parts and do the installation yourself:

Rating of mechanical blocking companies

To choose a high-quality protective device, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the brands and models that consumers prefer:

• Interception Universal;
• Python;
• Knight Barrier;
• Guarantee;
• Defen Time;
• Barracuda.

Interception Universal

The device is made in the form of a metal cylinder, which is mounted on the steering column. The device is fixed in a certain position, and when it is closed, turning the steering wheel will be impossible. The body of the blocker, as well as its protective part, are made of stainless steel, which contributes to longer operation of the device due to low wear.

Due to the absence of a keyhole, higher reliability is ensured. The device is turned off using a key made in the form of a ring with notches. On average, the price of the product is about 6500-7500 rubles.

Advantages:

• compatibility with more than 50 car models;
• The device does not require maintenance.

Python

The operating principle of the device is based on blocking the steering wheel from turning. To perform the task, a special long pin in a leather case is used. The key feature is the implementation of effective protection against various hacking options. The device performs simultaneous blocking of both mechanical and electronic components. This refers to both the steering wheel and the starter mechanism.

The device is protected by additional protection against the use of master keys and similar products for picking the lock. If a criminal manages to open the device, then the internal combustion engine will not be able to start. To activate the starter mechanism, a special button installed on the key fob is used. The cost of the set is approximately 7,600 rubles on average.

User Perehvatsz spoke about the features of the Python locking system for cars.

Knight Barrier

The device is made of high quality stainless steel. The manufacturer provides a five-year warranty on the product. The steering wheel lock is equipped with a keyhole located on the side. It is characterized by an unconventional shape, which makes it difficult for the device to be hacked. To open the device, not standard keys are used, but rather unusually shaped controls.

Main advantages:

• the product does not require periodic or routine maintenance;
• the original shape of the device will not allow the thief to use master keys or bumping;
• Suitable for most modern car models.

Guarantee

This manufacturer supplies the market with two effective protection options - Bastion and Block blockers. Both Garant models are characterized by high secrecy of the internal cylinder. The device effectively protects the starter mechanism from restarting.

Main advantages:

• the warranty service life is five years;
• The device is suitable for installation on most modern cars;
• the device is made from high-quality carbon steel, which prevents rapid wear;
• The locking device is based on the Abloy lock, characterized by high secrecy.

To operate effectively, the device requires periodic maintenance and lubrication. The average cost of a set is about 7500-800 rubles.

Defen Time

The hood lock of this brand will effectively protect the engine compartment. The key feature of the device is the use of modern protection technologies during production. In practice, it is almost impossible to hack the product. This is due to the high-strength materials from which the device is made, so it is difficult even to cut it with a grinder. Depending on the model, the cost of the device can range from 2,500 to 7,000 rubles.

User Alexey Lyamin spoke in detail about the features of using Defen Time hood locks.

Barracuda

This brand produces both locks and locking devices for certain vehicle models. In this case we mean anti-theft devices for transmissions. On average, installing a locking device can take up to two hours. On sale you can find universal products that are mounted in standard places, as a result of which you do not have to drill additional holes.

Locking devices are characterized by rigid contours. This increases the mechanical strength of the device. On average, one lock will cost the buyer 4,500 rubles.

Photo gallery

Barracuda checkpoint lock

Hood lock Defen Time

Steering shaft lock "Garant"

Steering lock "Interception"

Steering lock "Python"

Steering wheel lock "Knight Barrier"

TOP 10 self-protection against theft

03/18/2020, author: Alexander Vizaulin

It seems that none of you will have to prove that a car is not only a convenient means of transportation, but also an object of increased attention from criminals. The latter highly and truly value your car, dreaming of rushing off with it to the “beautiful far away” finally and forever. What can I say - there is only one way to prevent such an unpleasant outcome: equipping your vehicle with a security system. Moreover, not a simple standard one, which an experienced hijacker can hack in a matter of minutes, but a truly reliable one, with multi-level authorization and carefully disguised control units.

Unfortunately, after purchasing a new or used car, the installation of a decent anti-theft system is sometimes postponed for one reason or another: some people still don’t have enough time, others don’t have enough money, and others even believe in the modest capabilities of the above-mentioned factory security tools. The disadvantages of this approach are obvious, and therefore we decided to tell you how you can at least slightly increase the level of protection of your car yourself, without spending your last salary on it. So, what can we do to further puzzle the hijacker?

Simulation of alarm

This is the cheapest, and therefore most primitive, instrument, the operating principle of which is based on a purely psychological effect. Essentially, this is a small plastic block with an LED that simulates the operation of a security system. It costs a penny, can be purchased in many domestic or Chinese online stores, but can only mislead a novice thief. Some of them immediately reveal their fake essence upon closer inspection through the windshield, others are a little more complicated, but the essence is the same - apart from the appearance of having an “anti-theft”, they are of little use.

How to make a mechanical anti-theft device with your own hands?

The easiest option is to block the vehicle's exhaust pipe.

To make an anti-theft mechanical device for a car you need:

1. Drill a hole in the pipe.
2. A special cylindrical part made of steel is installed into it.
3. Another hole should be made in the center of the cylinder.

The bottom line is that by installing this element in the hole in the exhaust pipe and turning it, the exhaust gases will be blocked. They will not be able to get out, as a result of which the car engine will not start. If you turn the cylindrical device with a hole towards the exhaust gases, they can leave the car. In fact, this anti-theft device is a regular faucet.

There is another option - to make a lock that is primitive in design to prevent the clutch pedal from moving. As a base, you will need a steel bracket, the body of which has holes of the appropriate size. A lock will be inserted into them, which will lock.

Useful tips

All self-made anti-theft devices work effectively only as an addition to a security alarm. Mechanical devices will help protect the car from non-professionals, as well as show them that the car is well protected from unauthorized opening. Mechanical anti-theft devices will not stop experienced car thieves.

Hello everyone, I have a Ford Focus2, I want to make a simple homemade anti-theft device, which, if God forbid, someone sets their sights on my car, can at least confuse them a little and possibly scare them away. Post your options here or in a private message. Thanks in advance everyone!

Photo gallery

Photos of homemade blockers are presented in this section.

Scheme for the manufacture of mechanical anti-theft

Basic elements for creating a homemade castle

Homemade clutch pedal movement blocker

How does a secret car work?

The owner of a security device with a manual or automatic transmission must press a special button before starting the internal combustion engine. If the anti-theft system on your car is equipped with a magnet, then you need to attach the key to it and enter the password. Depending on the type of anti-theft device installed, you may need to turn the key additionally. If a thief manages to hack the security system and the siren does not produce alarm signals, he will need time to find and disable the button.

The detailed operating principle of the secret system is discussed using the example of a simple but effective blocker:

1. The car owner enters the code after stopping the engine. This allows you to lock the steering shaft.
2. If a criminal tries to steal a car and start the engine, the engine will start. However, it will randomly stop after a few minutes. This option is implemented by the developers so that the hijacker cannot travel far.
3. If the criminal finds the location where the security device is installed, he will try to enter the code. As a result of several unsuccessful entry attempts, all major vehicle systems will be locked.
4. Perhaps after this there will be attempts to steal a car by unlocking the nodes. In this case, the mechanisms will begin to emit alarm signals, scaring off the criminal.

The Axius-Auto channel talks about the principle of operation of the device using the example of the Igla model and a Range Rover car.

Video “Is it possible to open a mechanical hood lock?”

The channel "AUTOSECURITY - Anti-theft Studio" conducted an experiment on hacking an anti-theft lock, the results are presented in the video.

Do you have any questions? Specialists and readers of the AUTODVIG website will help you ask a question

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What is more reliable: contact a specialist or do it yourself?

Which system of anti-burglary automotive equipment to use, where to install it - on the doors, steering wheel or some other element of the car structure - is up to the car owner to choose.

Among motorists themselves, there are two opposing opinions regarding the use of homemade anti-theft devices - some believe that it is better to install the device yourself, while others say that it is best to contact a specialist technician who can skillfully manufacture and install the system.

But most drivers will agree that purchased devices are best combined with homemade ones.

To use homemade anti-theft devices or install any homemade lock on your car, you can listen to some recommendations from experts.

Making your own anti-burglary device for cars must be carried out according to certain rules, and the device itself must meet the following characteristics:

1. The design should be thought out in advance, a drawing should be made, a sketch with the parameters and dimensions of the equipment plotted.
2. It is necessary to have a clear idea of ​​where exactly the device will be installed, and whether it will adversely affect the operation of the unit or car mechanism.
3. There should be several devices - only in this way, in combination, they can protect the car from theft.
4. The operating principles of the protections must be different if they are used in a car at the same time.
5. You can combine mechanical protection with digital or electronic, radio-controlled or automatic.

The following combination of protective devices is considered the best option so far:

• purchased alarm system (after all, you can’t do without it!);
• steering lock on mechanics;
• speed switch blocker;
• “secret” – a “secret” button that shuts off the fuel supply and blocks the ignition system at the same time.

The versatile function of anti-theft devices, made independently, will help to save a lot of time, delay the thief, or even completely stop him from continuing his criminal business.

After all, if each device functions according to its own principle, different from other devices, then the thief will have to select a separate method of hacking a car for each device. And this will require a sufficient amount of time and ingenuity.

When attackers try to get into your car or start it in order to steal it, a combination of various security and anti-theft systems will not allow them to do this.

Almost any car service technician and even a car lawyer will recommend using both purchased devices and homemade ones.

Everything should be applied in combination; this is the only way the chances of failure in the hijacker’s criminal actions will increase to 100 percent.

How car enthusiasts respond to blocking automatic transmissions from theft is described in the article: blocking automatic transmissions from theft.

For comprehensive car theft protection in Moscow, see the page.

Find out about car burglary from this information.

More about larvae

The basis of the lock is the cylinder (cylinder), which determines the complexity of both opening with a master key and breaking with brute force (impacts, drilling). When it comes to automobile anti-theft devices, the Israeli company Mul-T-Lock Ltd. has long been the recognized leader. – its very name has entered into everyday language following the example of “copiers” and “diapers”; many call anti-theft locks “multilocks”. Now this company is absorbed by the Swedish concern ASSA Abloy - and you definitely saw the very first Abloy larva, even if you didn’t know what it was called. These are the same keys with a semicircular shaft and a set of bevels that have been known since Soviet times.

Abloy cylinder and key used in the Garant Block Lux lock

Mul-T-Lock cylinder in Fortus lock

If, when choosing a mechanical anti-theft lock, you find a cylinder from these companies in it, then this guarantees quality and reliability, and most importantly, it will allow you to count on the production of a new key if the old ones are lost. From “multilocks” you can order a new key using a code card, which is supplied along with the cylinder and a set of three keys to factories that directly produce anti-theft locks.

If a larva of unknown origin is installed in the lock, then reasonable doubts will arise about its reliability. You should refuse to buy such a castle, even if it is attractive at the price.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of locks:

1. Reliable protection thanks to high secrecy. The developer of the “larva” is the Abloy company, one of the leaders in the field of lock production.
2. Easy to install. The user can carry out installation independently by studying the service manual.
3. Increased criminal stability. The design of the lock product is made of high-strength and high-quality steel; heat treatment is used in the manufacture of the locking body. The locking mechanism secures the steel bolt in a special groove installed in the steering column, so the device is as resistant to burglary as possible.
4. The presence of a control module allows you to ensure proper operation of the starter mechanism. When the engine starts, the device automatically transitions from starting speed to operating speed.
5. Ability to operate over a wide temperature range. Thermal and chemical treatment of steel allows the lock to effectively cope with its tasks in severe frost. Constant exposure to moisture will also not destroy the structure of the device.
6. High ergonomic properties of the product, achieved due to the fact that the anti-theft functionality is divided between two components - the control key and the start button.

According to reviews, such devices have no disadvantages, other than high cost. For the price requested by the manufacturer, the user can buy a full-fledged alarm system with radio communication.

Car alarm connection points for Lada Granta 2022

1. Author RA9UBD
2. Ignition switch: 12V - pinkIGN_1 - blueStart - red
3. Left threshold: Turns - blue and blue/black Fuel pump - gray Driver's limit switch - red/green Handbrake - brown/blue
4. Tidy: Driver's limit switch - red/green Handbrake - brown/blue
5. Central locking - install an electric drive in the driver's door, if there is no electric drive in the door. Trunk - white/black; harness in the trunk (install a diode) Tachometer - brown/red; In the configuration, the standard can be taken on the electric power steering unit

If the car has painted bumpers (standard equipment), then there is no need to install an additional activator; we connect pins 2 and 7 on the door lock using a power circuit. The locks on the doors are Kalinovsky, the activator is built inside, but the wires are not routed.

There is only a driver's door switch. The rest need to be installed and connected to the driver's limit switch, i.e. to red/green in the threshold. The limit switches are the same as the engine compartment on the Priora. The limit switches will have to be taken with a connector and wiring.

Installation of secret anti-theft

First, let's look at several methods that will help us protect the car from intruders, but we will not use standard equipment such as alarms and built-in immobilizers.

Installing a secret toggle switch

The simplest, but quite effective, is to install a secret toggle switch.

As a circuit on which to hang this toggle switch, you can use the power supply circuit of the fuel pump, or take one of the wires of the crankshaft sensor, or screw it to one of the wires that goes to the ignition, there are a lot of options. The main thing is to do this unnoticed, and install the toggle switch in a place where no one will find it.

If you don’t understand anything about car wiring, then of course there is no need to do this yourself, you can mess up, in this case ask some electrician, I think he won’t refuse to do such an easy operation for money.

Beacon installation

Another interesting option that can be classified as anti-theft is GPS beacons, which allow you to track the location of the car. Many of them have built-in motion sensors, which in case of unauthorized access to the car will notify you via SMS.

On the Internet, I somehow came across an option with a telephone. Get a second phone and hide it, for example, between the rear seats. Naturally included. If your car is stolen (God forbid, of course), then for the first time it will probably be driven into some kind of septic tank, and if you don’t waste time and contact the relevant authorities, you will be able to track the location of that phone through cellular operators. No one will give you this information themselves, but they will give it to the police, which means it will be possible to determine the physical location of the car. Of course, in this case, you probably need to act very quickly and promptly contact the relevant authorities in case of theft, only then may there be a chance to find the car and detain the thieves. On my own behalf, I’ll say that, to be honest, I don’t really believe in this method, but if you think about it, everything is logical.