Mechanical protection against car theft: types, instructions, reviews

Mechanical devices that provide protection against theft, against the background of the spread of electronic systems seem less attractive. There are reasons for this, among which is the fashion for technological devices and operational shortcomings. However, they are covered by practical use. The mere appearance of such a mechanism can scare off an ill-prepared attacker. In addition, mechanical means of protection against car theft are cheaper and more affordable in the installation. But there are serious drawbacks to such devices, which are expressed in weak places of mechanics as such. On the one hundred percent protection in this case it is not necessary to speak, since, if desired and with a certain amount of time, the offender will be able to cope with a simple blocker. Nevertheless, as an additional security measure, this option of protection quite justifies itself.

Features of mechanical protection against theft

The main difference between these devices is the independence of signaling. The reliability of the device depends entirely on the strength of the materials and the configuration of the lock. From here follows also one more advantage which is possessed by mechanical protection against stealing of the car in all executions is an exception of power expenses. This advantage is not so much associated with savings, as with the lack of risk of "planting" the battery at an inopportune moment. True, there are also negative nuances in the operation of mechanical devices. So, if you need a key chain with several buttons to control electronic alarms, some types of blockers require physical manipulation. And not always these actions are limited to a simple opening of the castle. To understand the nuances of operating such systems, it is worthwhile to consider the most common types of mechanical protection.

Steering lock

This device prevents unauthorized manipulation of the steering wheel, protecting it from turning. Fixing ensures the immobility of the "steering wheel" so that it is impossible to physically change its position. Even if an intruder drives an engine, the steering wheel will maintain its position, which is highly likely not to allow an attacker to commit theft. There are several types of such mechanisms. In simple modifications, the mechanical protection against the theft of the steering wheel does not involve other machine assemblies, but there are also combined devices that also attach to the pedal. Special locking mechanism provides integration into the steering shaft of a special coupling, which ensures immobility.

Pedal stopper

Quite popular and special devices that are mounted only on the pedal. They are a metal rack with divisions on which the lock is attached. The latter locks the pedal in such a way that it is stationary. Such systems can be attributed to the cheapest representatives of mechanical devices for machine protection, but they have significant drawbacks. First, the pedal lock is inconvenient in operation, since the driver must spend 10-15 minutes each time to install it. Secondly, mechanical protection against theft by fixing the pedal does not work with cars that have an automatic transmission. In other cases, this option can be useful if an electronic security system is also provided as the main one.

Transmission Lock

Such devices are represented by different designs, therefore the principle of operation is different for them. The most common system in which the gear lever is installed in a certain position and in it is fixed. On the market, mechanical protection against theft of this type is presented in arc and pin versions. It is desirable to immediately focus on the first option, since this mechanism provides more reliable locking of the switch lever using a special clamp that presses the handle to the lock. There are also internal blockers that hide under the tunnel casing. To control such a mechanism, only the larva of the lock is provided. Opening it, the driver provides the ability to switch the transmission.

Door blockers

If you want a convenient and inexpensive device for additional protection, then you should pay attention to the door blocker. It is a pin that integrates into the door leaf of the car. It is important to note that this device has nothing in common and does not communicate with the main lock. However, its function is also reduced to preventing access to the salon. According to the principle of operation, the mechanical protection against the theft of this type resembles a conventional latch. To exclude the possibility of opening with the help of metal keys, modern blockers are supplied with special protection. However, such a mechanism does not save a hijacker ready to smash the glass.

Brake lock

The effect of systems of this type is expressed in limiting the movement of the car after performing one braking. By design, such a blocker resembles a conventional reversing valve. It is integrated into the braking system by specialists, so the owner of the car will not have to tinker with the installation every time to start the movement. In some versions, mechanical protection against theft of this type provides for locking the starter. In terms of reliability, such devices are considered the most effective, but they are much more expensive than a steering lock or a door latch.

Installation Instructions

Each device has its own mounting features. There are two categories of mechanical equipment by type of installation. The first are integrated into the machine's construction by means of special screws, staples and clamps in the car repair shops. Systems of the second category can be installed by the driver himself. For example, mechanical anti-theft measures for a steering wheel or pedal require only correct adjustment of the device, and then secure the position with a pin with a lock. In this regard, the greatest difficulty is represented by mechanisms that cover both the steering wheel and the pedal simultaneously. Correctly fixing the position of all units, you can count on a high level of reliability.

Reviews about mechanical protection against theft

Mechanical devices are the oldest type of protection against car theft. Russian motorists are well acquainted with the pros and cons of such devices and for the most part are positive about them. Today, the mechanical protection of cars from theft is practically not used as the only security measure. As a rule, it is combined with electronic devices. If we talk about shortcomings, they are mainly expressed in operational nuances. Everyday installation and installation takes a lot of time, so even more often motorists make a choice in favor of non-removable mechanisms. By the way, such systems show themselves in the best way in terms of reliability.