Gone are the days when car alarms were simple noise-making devices, designed to go off when someone disturbed a vehicle (as when trying to steal it). Because of the growing ineffectiveness of purely “loud sound” alarms, manufacturers are graduating to more intelligent systems.

Several studies have shown that people, especially in congested cities, have stopped responding to car alarms. This is because most car alarms are set off not accidentally by passersby or by trucks and other vehicles that cause the ground to vibrate. This indifference radically diminishes the theft prevention capabilities of car alarms.

Car alarms are now shifting from just plain sound-making devices into smarter, more interactive forms. Manufacturers are continuously developing “immobilizers” that shut down the car’s engine when someone forces the doors open and starts the car without using authorized access methods (such as car keys or pass codes). Other forms of immobilizers are controlled using the same technology used in text messaging or SMS – once the owner finds out that his car is missing, he simply presses a button or calls a relay station to activate the car’s immobilizer. The stolen car then stops wherever it is.

Some car manufacturers now add in vehicle tracking systems. These nifty gadgets enable the police to trace stolen cars. Note that both of these gadgets are still quite expensive. Manufacturers have yet to find ways to mass produce and them at more affordable prices.

While hybrid immobilizers and tracking systems protect against car napping, they still do not protect against vandalism or theft. In these cases, it’s still a good old fashion car alarm that will do the trick. This is probably why many car owners still can’t let go of the trusty device.

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Glass in integral to the design of every vehicle. It has several functions, from being aesthetic and regal to protecting the passengers in case of accidents. Until 1929 windshields were a luxury. It was only in 1924 that the glass industry made the production of plate glass efficient enough to be used in the manufacture of cars that had become a part and parcel of the social fabric.

Auto glass is essential for safe driving, and is specially manufactured in keeping with norms outlined by the Federal Crash and Roll Over Standards. Safety glass, as auto glass is popularly known is of two kinds: Laminated and Tempered.

Laminated glass has been used for windshields in automobiles since 1927 and is manufactured by placing between two glass panes a sheet of clear plastic film, and sealing them using heat and pressure. The plastic film is what prevents the glass from shattering and causing injuries on impact. Laminated glass also blocks high frequency sound and ultraviolet radiation.

Tempered glass is strong and made by using heat and sudden cooling. When it breaks it does not shatter, but forms small pebble-like pieces that are not sharp. Normally used in the side and rear windows of automobiles, tempered glass lends great strength, as well as wind and impact resistance.

When replacing auto glass one must ensure the windshield is perfectly centered. The molding must be flat and securely fitted with no gaps. From the outside, the glass should appear to be one with the vehicle’s body.

When selecting an auto glass service, it is prudent to follow the National Glass Association guidelines. Ensure that the service provider has NGA certified technicians. Ideally they should apply the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS). Technically, the provider must use the recommended methods of installation as well as the best adhesive, urethane-based adhesive. The technician must: carry out a detailed check and note if the passenger side has an airbag; remove old sealant thoroughly; prevent any contamination of the bonding surface; and clean and prime the pinchweld before the installation of new glass. In addition, the service provider must extend the courtesy of explaining to the customer the dos and don’ts of caring for auto glass, and answer patiently any questions a customer asks.

It is auto glass that prevents a passenger from getting hurt in an accident by supporting the airbag and preventing the roof from caving in. It has vital structural functions. Since safety is of the greatest concern, always choose high-quality auto glass and ensure safe replacement.

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