On Thu, 25 Dec 2003 19:08:51 -0500, "Robert11" <rgsxrose@comcast.net>
wrote:

>Hello:
>
>Have a new Accord, and am a bit concerned about theft.
>
>Was wondering how effective the "micro-chip key" that is apparently
>required to start the engine "really" is in deterring theft ?

From what I've seen of the technology up to 2001 models, they're usually
good for a few years. It takes a couple of years before locksmiths get new
equipment which can decode them - add a couple more for the thieves to
ummm, "acquire" the equipment.

>Or, is it mostly a "feel-good" kind of thing ?
>
>If it is effective, how is it that the Accords are about the most stolen
>vehicles ? How is it done then; are they just towed ?

Towing is what the real pros will do. Then there's the bandits you leave
your car and keys with for some indeterminate time - alarm/audio install
"specialist" are often prime suspects here. They can make a physical copy
of your key, which wont start your car but with a ECU swap and the
corresponding chipped key for that donor ECU strapped near the steering
column sensor, they can drive off.

I think the real measure of how effective the immobilizer systems are is
the increase in theft of older vehicles which are not equipped - IOW they
stop the joy-riders or the guys who just want free transport across town.

>"The Club" steering wheel lock much of a deterrent ?

Nope. Have you not seen the video of the guy sawing through the steering
wheel - 10secs max. I dunno about the brake pedal locks. If they really
want your car, they'll have it.

>What might be better, other than the electrical alarm systems?

I've often wondered what would be required to totally vaporize an entire
human... passively of course. Could it be done with just volts or do we
have to resort to Star Wars lasers here?:-)

Rgds, George Macdonald

"Just because they're paranoid doesn't mean you're not psychotic" - Who, me??