Some tips to insure that I have a good alarm installer?

I'm also thinking about getting the Alpine SEC 150R. It was recommended. I had thought about the Clifford, but apparently several installers say there have been problems with the warranty etc. A lot just don't carry it anymore I guess because it got bought by DEI which also owns Alpine? Anyway some of you have the Alpine and speak highly of it.

I also read that more important than the alarm is the install. I'm not a mechanic, so I need some help if you can give it to me. The installer says they do a much better job than the local CC etc., that they will sauder the connections, hide the unit in a non-typical place rather than just under the dash. Sounds good. Need other opinions? Help? Thanks.

 

For one, ask them if they've ever worked on an S2000 before. Try to trip them up with trick questions, like "Have you ever worked on a coupe version, or the 5-speed?" Act like they really exist at first...if they say "Yeah" walk away. You don't want to be someone's guinea pig.

Get their warranty in writing. If they don't specify install and wiring issues being fixed at no charge, walk away.

VERY few people actually solder the connections, but if they do, you found an installer at least one notch in quality above the rest.

If they chose to install the alarm unit somewhere else, ask them where, and how long are the new wire runs.

DEI has bought almost every major (and minor) alarms systems out there, so all of the systems people used to know by name and quality are essentially the same. I've installed multiple Clifford systems, and they've worked great for me in the past. Since DEI sells both Alpine and Clifford, they're required to warranty both, so don't believe the installers when they say Clifford is no longer warrantable...what they mean is, the SHOP no longer deals with them.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by MacGyver
[B]Get their warranty in writing.

 

Circuit City??? Are they ok??? Any experience with alarm install with them...they do the Alpine 150R.... wondering if I should go there???

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by 2Ting
[B]Circuit City???

 

Well.. I've worked at a few places.. they are ALL the same.. Best Buy requires a MECP(mobile electronics certified professional, i think) certification.. they might be worthy.. wherever you go.. stand and watch them.. tell them that you are making sure everything is being done the right way (not breaking stuff) and if all is good at the end you could tip them..

but tell you the truth.. i wouldnt bring my car ANYWHERE.. if any work needs to be done mechanical or electrical ill learn what i must to do it myself.. from what ive seen nobody cares about the work they do these days...

I earn a living installing on my own these days and I encourage people to stay and watch if they can... They can be sure that nothing is being ripped apart and they can learn something at the same time..

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by funkylemons
[B]Well.. I've worked at a few places.. they are ALL the same.. Best Buy requires a MECP(mobile electronics certified professional, i think) certification.. they might be worthy.. wherever you go.. stand and watch them.. tell them that you are making sure everything is being done the right way (not breaking stuff) and if all is good at the end you could tip them..

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by ex-eclipse
[B]
i agree totally.

 

About How much dose it cost for a new alarm system?? I don't want no fancy stuff like Lighting effects or sound effects. I just want something that will protect my baby. Oyea, Is there anyway to get it hooked up to the antenna? Because mine got stolen 4 times and whoever is behind this wont stop!

 

I'm not one for letting folks work on my car; however, I do buy a good bit of electronics and in the past couple of years I got to know several folks from different stores around here in my area. I will say that around here, if I were going to let anyone install anything it would be Circuit City. The one here at least does solder wires... no crimping. Best Buy on the other hand loves their wire nuts and crimp connectors! I would also stay away from the small stereo shops. They'll say they're the professionals and that they do good work, and in some cases (like show cars) they do. However, they install plenty of alarms and simple stereo systems and yours is no more special than the ricer in his Civic... They want to get your stuff done in a hurry to get back to the vehicles they really care about. Also, if you get to hanging out at those stereo shops, you'll learn quick that turn-around is very high and you see the same faces at different stores all the time... It's a shady business! If you can learn to do your own installs, you'll be much better off!!! Good luck and remember, if you do decide that you'd like to try installing it yourself, you've got a pretty good group of experienced people here that can help you out...

Edit: Another reason for Circuit City is that at least you know they'll be in business in a couple months if your alarm stops working! Just thought I'd add that comment...