-- West Midlands auto locksmiths, Eydens, have warned consumers about ordering immobilisers and other vehicle security devices online, following reports of rising numbers of counterfeit devices. Fitting these untested products can invalidate insurance coverage, provide a false sense of security and leave cars and vans exposed to theft.
The firm, which offers emergency callout services alongside professional installations of market-leading, insurance-approved devices, as a certified installer of the Autowatch Ghost II Immobiliser, aims to raise awareness about the prevalence of counterfeit items, many of which are sold via online marketplaces.
Reasons for Concern Within the Auto Locksmith Sector About Fake Immobilisers
An increasing number of drivers and van owners are taking a proactive approach to vehicle security, especially following a rise in thefts and break-ins due to the ease with which criminals can intercept the electronic signals issued by keyless fobs or clone those signals to access a vehicle.
While ordering online has become the norm, the reality is that a significant number of devices advertised haven't been produced to the correct standards and could pose a safety risk.
Rob Eyden owner of Eydens Auto Locksmiths says, ‘We strongly urge all drivers considering buying an immobiliser directly to proceed with caution, because most insurers will require them to provide evidence not only of having an immobiliser that meets minimum requirements, such as having been approved by Thatcham Security Certifications, but of having that device installed by a qualified professional.
Upticks in orders have led to a number of unscrupulous producers selling counterfeit products that mimic or copy the names of well-known, respected brands. Some of these products are very convincing, using fraudulent branding and quality stamps that can deceive consumers into thinking they're relying on the real thing rather than a fake.
Counterfeit or low-quality immobilisers won’t properly protect your car, are prone to failure, and can even interfere with the systems within your vehicle, creating a threat to the safety of drivers and other road users.’
Risks Associated With Fake and Counterfeit Immobilisers
Buyers who have been caught out by counterfeit devices may only discover this when they need to file a claim with their car insurance provider, only to be informed that this constitutes insurance fraud, despite being an inadvertent mistake.
Rob explains that ‘Our vehicle security advisers have spoken with customers who have experienced an electrical shock when trying to start their vehicle, or in the worst cases have had a fire due to poorly connected circuits and overheating, something that is a real-world emergency when driving in fast-moving traffic.
Other very serious incidents have included sudden engine cut-outs due to unexpected immobiliser failure, which is often caused by substandard installation or the use of below-par materials in the manufacture of a fake security product.
This is why we believe it’s so important to improve awareness of the problem, because in some scenarios having an immobiliser fail to prevent a theft is the least dangerous outcome.’
Advice for UK Drivers Looking to Improve Vehicle Security
The best guidance is to consult an independent auto locksmith with expertise in vehicle security who is a recognised, verified member of the Auto Locksmiths Association, or ALA. This is the only trade body in the UK which sets mandatory standards and expectations for registered auto locksmiths and conducts assessments to ensure all members are fully compliant.
Rob adds that ‘Drivers can look for a certification from one of the organisations that monitors industry standards, like TASSA or Thatcham, while being cautious that stamps or text shown on the packaging don’t necessarily mean the device is genuine!
We also recommend consulting a reputable installer, who will provide you with the necessary paperwork and proof of installation, if you intend to apply for a reduced insurance premium or expect to qualify for a lower-cost insurance policy due to having an immobiliser.
Here at Eydens, we ensure each customer receives personalised recommendations, whether a van driver would benefit from an extra-strong deadlock, latch plates and an immobiliser, or a car owner would prefer an invisible Ghost II immobiliser with concealed wiring to remove any potential for tampering.’
Consumers have been advised to be wary of any unsolicited calls or communications offering free alarms or free installation with the purchase of an alarm, as these are likely to be scams.
Further details about immobiliser models, installation services, and mobile fitting options are available directly through the Eydens Auto Locksmiths website.
Read more about Eydens Auto Locksmiths and Vehicle Security - Coventry Auto Locksmith, Eydens, Comments on Factors Driving Higher Replacement Key Charges From Showrooms
About Us: Eydens Auto Locksmiths have over 20 years of experience and are members of both the MLA and the ALA, providing auto lock and key services to motorists in Coventry, Rugby, Nuneaton, Bedworth, Kenilworth, Leamington, Stratford upon Avon and Warwick.
Contact Info:
Name: Rob Eyden
Email: Send Email
Organization: Eydens Auto Locksmiths
Website: https://eydensautolocksmiths.co.uk/
Release ID: 89177829
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