I recall reading here that the car alarm isn't standard equipment in the Prius. I believe the alarm is for the dealer, who then disconnects it upon sale or keeps it activated if the buyer pays for it. However, when I purchased my Prius, my insurance carrier asked whether there was an alarm in my car. I asked the sales person who said it's factory installed. So that's what I told my insurance carrier. What's the truth? Also, I didn't pay anything extra for the alarm, so I have a feeling it isn't activated on my car. What alarm do all of you recommend? Thanks. Mike
If you want an alarm, it needs to be installed (at incoming port, or dealer), because it's not factory installed.
A car alarm is a general term. The car comes with a built in immobilizer that will not start the car unless a key is present. It also has the ability to lock and unlock the doors using a keyfob. There is a panic button on the keyfob that will make the horn sound and lights blink. If you want a more advanced system you can install the Toyota VIP (Vehicle Intrusion Protection) system or an aftermarket system like a Viper System.
Then, I was looking at the Toyota VIP RS3200+. Does anybody have an opinion on this? Is it even necessary? I haven't heard much about people breaking into the Prius, and when it happens, I'd assume it's because something was left in the car and the thief broke the window and took the property. Anybody hear much about having a Prius stolen? Sounds almost impossible to do, right? So, I'm back to wondering whether an alarm is even necessary. Mike
Mike, look at your key fob. Do you see a red button? If you have one go out to your car, and press the red button for 2 seconds. There's your alarm.
My dealer stated that the vehicle is equipped with a built-in, installed alarm system. If I didn't pay $300.00 for it, it would be deactivated but still in the vehicle.
It seems to me that I heard this too. The alarm is there, it has to be activated. Maybe I am thinking about my old Gen II? (I have never heard of a Prius being stolen; maybe same category as a Yugo. )
