So because of Ton4Fun's comments about security systems, and my pending decision (70% leaning towards) to order a new 04 tomorrow, I would like to know everyone's thoughts please!

A vehicle security system is important to me. Should I order my truck without the $225 MSRP "security group" and purchase an after market system, or is the factory security system a good value at this price? The truck comes standard with keyless entry, but the security system itself is a separate option.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of after market versus factory security systems?

 

My $.02 to follow:

A factory security system will never be as good as an aftermarket.

There are so many factory security systems around that a would be intruder could disable it more easily since he has experience breaking into them.

DC, as well as other auto manufacturers aren't going to put the best in there, and charge fair market value, they are going to put el-cheapo in and bump the price up x2 or more.

Go with an aftermarket.


phox

 

I would agree to get aftermarket. They are much better. I am partial to Directed Electronics Inc Viper systems.

Do get the keyless entry though. You don't need to then add relays for the power door locks. They'll already be there.

 

Kinda off topic but related: I walked outside to jump in the truck and drive to work. I clicked the unlock button on the keyfob and not only did my door unlock like normal, but the neighbor's car alarm went off. I couldn't believe that I did that, so I waited until he turned off his alarm and tried it again, sure enough his alarm started wailing again. I thought it was kinda amusing. Of course since I go to work at 5 am I don't think the neighborhood is all that happy with me. 8)
Not sure if there is a fix for this but I figure I had my truck first, he either needs to fix it or get some earplugs.

 

I have the Super High Frquency Viper. When i disarmed my truck at the mall once, I also disarmed and unlocked the doors in a Mustang parked next to me decked out with an Alpine security system. I was a nice guy and locked his doors for him before I left.

Btw, I don't recommend Alpine!

 

thanks guys. I decided that the warranty aspect was important, and for $200 I went for the factory system. my VON is 11294782!

 

One other thing to consider is that the replacement keys for those things are $$$$$$$. As far as warrenty the dealership can't void any warrenty on an aftermarket system, heck, alot of dealerships install them or have them installed on site. Keep in mind the aftermarket clause/law when it comes to installing aftermarket equipment in a vechicle. A dealership must prove that what ever has been installed directly affects any issue the car crops up. i.e. the dealer can't void the warrenty because you brought your truck in to have a new wiper motor put in and they find an aftermarket alarm installed. Some people actually beleive the dealer when they say there warrenty is void because an aftermarket stereo, alarm, lights, etc....

Its funny this subject came up. My roommates 2001 Mercades CLK 430 factory alarm has locked up and he can't start his car. They had to order a new alarm module and keys. He is not under warrenty and its costing him $2500.00 (labor included). The keys are laser controled and run a different frequency than the module. I felt sorry for him. All that money for a silly alarm. I've seen it happen to many times with other factory modules. I'm not saying that will happen with the dodge modules, but we have already seen one member on this board stranded because of a factory system.

Doug, you want my advice call and cancel the option. I'd hate to see you pay dodge $200.00 to possibly one day getting stranded. In all my years of installing these things I have seen 40-50 cars with failed factory systems. Most of the folks get up set when you have to turn them back to the dealer to get new keys and modules costing them $$$$$. Take the $200.00 and get an aftermarket that will give you a great experience for the life of your new truck. I'm getting off my soap box now.

 

Oh yeah Alpines are junk. DEI all the way. They have been around for 13 years. Proven product and a good value.