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Summary
  • You need parts like electric tape and tools like the drill and multimeter to install a car alarm system.
  • Always consult your vehicle’s service manual and the car alarm’s instruction manual.
  • Remove the panels and mount the car alarm siren on a metal surface away from water and heat. You might need to drill holes in the dashboard and firewall for wires that connect the car alarm module with other parts.
  • Some car alarms have LED indicators that require a connection to the pin switch that activates the dome light.

Most cars have a security alarm system that alerts everyone nearby when someone tries to break into the vehicle. However, if your car alarm is broken down or worn out, it might not work, putting you at risk of losing your valuables or even your vehicle itself. You must replace the faulty alarm immediately to deter car thieves.

It’s a good thing you can install a replacement security alarm system in your vehicle. You can do it yourself, so you don’t have to pay a mechanic to do the job for you.

Parts and Tools for Installing a Security Alarm System

The following parts are necessary to install a car alarm:

  • Car alarm system
  • Electric tape
  • Zip ties

Additionally, you need the tools listed below for various steps in the installation process:

  • Crimping tool
  • Drill
  • Multimeter
  • Mechanic gloves
  • Soldering iron
  • Wire cutters
  • Wire strippers
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How to Install Alarm System In Your Car

These tips will make installing a security alarm system in your vehicle much easier:

Choose an Appropriate Car Alarm

Not all security alarm systems are equal. Some car alarms are designed for only a few vehicle models. Others are suitable for a wide range of models.

Their capabilities also differ between products. Basic car alarms trigger when someone forcibly opens one of the door locks. They might also make the external vehicle lights flash.

In comparison, advanced security alarm systems respond to a wider range of potential attempts to break into the vehicle. These range from touching the car to tampering with other parts, not just the door locks.

Make a list of the features that the new car alarm must have. It must also fit your budget.

Read the Car Alarm Instruction Manual

Car alarms usually come with an instruction manual that tells you about their installation and proper use. Some manuals might also detail how to maintain and repair the security alarm system.

Always read the instruction manual thoroughly. Consult the document if you’re stumped by a complication or need to refresh your memory.

Follow These Wiring Tips

Start the installation job by disconnecting the car battery from the vehicle. This protects you from accidental electrical shocks and ensures electrical parts don’t activate while you install the car alarm.

Keep your distance from wires with yellow covers and connectors. They’re the air bag wiring. If you accidentally damage one of the air bag wires, the air bag connected to the wire might activate or stop working.

Remove the Panels

Panels cover the wiring that connects the vehicle’s electrical system to various electronics and devices. You must remove the panels to access the wires and connect the car alarm to the electrical system.

You can mount the car alarm under the dash to hide it. Alternatively, you can put the alarm under the driver’s seat. Look for the interior panels near the floor or under the steering wheel. If you can’t find them, consult the service manual.

Select a Good Location For The Car Alarm

Mount the siren on a metal surface. Ensure that nothing around the part blocks or disrupts the sound projected from the part.

Choose a cool, dry spot that moisture and heat cannot reach. You can position the siren facing down on the surface to reduce the chances of heat and water reaching it. However, putting the siren in that position might affect its volume.

You might need a hole for the car alarm’s wiring to pass through to connect with the electrical system. See if you can find an existing opening that you can take advantage of.

Alternatively, you can drill a hole in the firewall’s plastic or rubber section. Avoid drilling the metal part of the firewall.

Insulate the wire that passes through the hole in the firewall. The insulation must withstand the heat generated by friction.

Install the Car Alarm System

While most car alarms attach to the car’s powertrain control module (PCM), some go in the engine bay. Check the alarm’s manual to find out where to install the security alarm system.

Your vehicle’s service manual will tell you where to find the connection ports for the car alarm computer. After completing the installation process, reconnect the battery. Test the car alarm to see if it works.

Tips for Installing LED Indicators

Some car alarm products include additional sensors and LED indicators. These parts are in different locations away from the car alarm module. You might have to drill additional holes in the dashboard and/or firewall to admit the wires connecting these parts to the module.

Pass the LED indicator wire through the hole and secure it with tape. Use a double-sided mounting tape to attach the indicator.

Next, find the wires that connect to the pin switches in the door. Pin switches are sensors that activate certain devices when someone opens a door, hood, or trunk with an active alarm. You can usually find them behind the kick panels.

Consult your vehicle’s service manual to identify the pin switch that activates the dome light. Then, tap the LED indicator wires to the wires moving away from that pin switch.

Always keep the wiring neat and in one place. Secure the wires with tape and bundle them together for easier management.

Additionally, install a valet switch that can deactivate the car alarm when you want to turn it off or temporarily entrust your car to someone else. Otherwise, the alarm will blare constantly.

Finally, look for loose wires and bundle them together. Connect the power line to the battery. This lets the alarm system power up when you start your vehicle.

About The Author
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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