I'm looking to replace the unreliable Clifford alarm fitted to my car. So, basically, I'd appreciate recommendations on a decent alarm system, for example, Toad. It should, obviously have the usual stuff; motion/shock sensors, interior sensor, battery backup, immobiliser, etc. Right now, I'm not entirely sure whether a Cat 1 alarm would save me enough on insurance to off set the cost of its purchase and fitting. Actually, while I'm here, I don't suppose anyone knows what's involved in getting Thatcham approval/training to fit Cat 1 alarms? I've already fitted loads of alarms, and have also had VW training, and would rather fit the alarm myself than let some other numbnuts bugger it up.
I used to have a Clifford Cat 1 which I wasnt very impressed with, now I have a Cobra Cat 1. Its a no nonsense, does what its meant to, decent security system. Obviously, it has alarm, immobiliser, shock sensor, interior sensors, battery back up and total closure. No nonsense and no gimmicks. Check their website for more info: www.cobravehiclesecurity.co.uk
Thanks for the replies so far. Well, I've been to a couple of insurer's web sites tonight, and it seems to some, it makes no difference - tried direct line and Tesco (they have the same basic interface...) and tried with VW's standard immobiliser, the clifford, a couple of cobra models and the Toad Ai 606 - it made no difference to the insurance cost... However, on the AA, it saved me about 29, but they are expenisve anyway. I'll try my current insurer tomorrow, as their site only does quotes between certain times of the day, which is a bit rubbish. But so far, if on average you have the car for three years, it's hardly worth the extra money. For me, at least...
ai606 too, total closure to be fitted but all is very good. as for the insurance, you might find it doesnt lower the cost but if not fitted the insurer might not cover you for theft of the vehicle, ive had this in the past and they will insure for anything else but not theft untill the alarm is fitted cheers
I have a Cobra Connex fitted, had it on my V6 Motion and now transferred to my R32. reliable and informative, though not cheap I'm afraid.
If you have a Clifford then make sure you go to an authorised dealer. If fitted right clifford is by far the best security system out there. We are authorised dealers for all major alarm makes and Clifford is the most popular. Your other option can be the New Viper 480XV Cat 1 with a LCD pager based alarm. We have this alarm on special for 299 fitted. www.motoguarduk.co.uk
if you're any good with electrics then just the cost of the unit, they are on ebay for 35, if not you'll prob pay around 70-80 for someone to supply and fit, just a rough guess.
i can get you number off Tommy that fitted my alarm - he's based in back street in partick, but the best at his game. not unknown for main dealers to use him too apparently. and he's cheap
as you have already worked out - clifford is just a good name but shiite systems tbh - speaking from personal experience.. & my current clifford works perfectly..
What year is yor golf? New golfs have closure built on the car and its not much trouble wiring it of the alarm. We do it for free if you already have a closure module factory fitted but some may charge you upto 25-35 to wire it off the alarm www.motorguarduk.co.uk
