What makes us passionate about garage alarms amongst other car security products? At CAR, we have already covered a number of ways you can keep your garage safe. Locking your car in the garage along with your precious tools is one way to keep it safe, but there is a noisier option available; a bellowing garage alarm.
We understand how much cars mean to us fellow petrolheads. They can be sentimental, precious, and sometimes, the most valuable things we have in our lives, second to people. So, protecting them is paramount - especially if we don't have access to the most secure garages.
We have already covered what the best outdoor security cameras are but these alarms are a sure-fire deterrent, especially if they go off at 3 AM. There really are endless options out there for your cherished vehicle.
The best garage alarms at a glance:
Editor's pick: Guardline Smart Home Security System - buy from Amazon.
The smartest system: ERA 6 Piece Alarm Security Set - buy from Amazon.
The best budget system: Defender Shock Contact Alarm - buy from Amazon.
Garage alarms are exactly what you think they are. They trigger and release a sound as soon as an intrusion is detected in the space containing your loved possession. The sound will certainly wake people up and may lead them to call the police, so it's an extra layer of protection for your vehicle. On top of, say, a well sought home CCTV system.
The best garage alarms
Via GuardlineComing in clutch from Guardline is a set of two alarm sensors and a receiver suitable for a garage environment. Each sensor is held in place by four screws, so you could pretty much place them wherever you like. This may range from small trees to of course, just above the garage door.
The sensors use passive infrared tech to detect motion and heat, and you can even choose the level of sensitivity you want. Guardline say the sensitivity range extends up to 152 metres, provided there aren't any trees or walls blocking the path. Suitable therefore for long driveways to which your garage sits at the end.
Pros
- Long and adjustable range
- Easy to install
Cons
- May not be useful if your garage is in an awkward spot
Via Yale Arguably the most default option when it comes to alarm systems, the classic yellow Yale was always going to make the list. It's not hard to see why either. It's easy to install thanks to its wireless setup, there are no monthly fees after purchase and comes with some handy PIR detectors.
Not to mention the siren is fairly loud at 104dB. So if someone is detected in your garage, they could be inclined to leave on the grounds of protecting their eardrums. It also comes with a panic button and remote control, should you need to sound it manually.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Comes with useful accessories
Cons
- Siren isn't the loudest
Via DefenderOn the more affordable end of the garage alarm spectrum is the Shock Contact system by Defender. The brand has a catalogue of small, personal alarm systems and this one is designed to detect sneak or forced break-ins.
With a 130dB alarm, it's fair to say you can hear it, should your garage be slightly further from your main house. However, a 5-second entry delay might probably be too soon for people just wanting to access their own garage.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to install
Cons
- You'll need to be very quick at entering the code each time you enter
Via UltraSecureOperated by a remote control from a distance of up to 50 metres away, UltraSecure's wireless alarm system has a garage covered. You will need to have your ears covered too; it sounds a whopping 130dB.
The PIR detection isn't as great as others, spanning only 8 metres in range. But in the scary event that an intruder enters your car's hibernation den, it should do its work to deter the nosey individual.
Pros
- Loud alarm
- Ideal for garages
Cons
- Range is only 8m
Via ERAIf your garage is attached to your home and can easily be accessed through the kitchen or corridor, then ERA might have the ideal kit. Compatible with Alexa and controlled via your smartphone or voice, this is a useful set if you want to easily keep all eyes on your garage.
A hindrance however, comes in the form of an ERA Plus subscription. The first three months are free, but added fees are involved thereafter.
Pros
- Paired with Alexa and can be controlled via your phone
- Simple to use
Cons
- Requires subscription for maximum protection
What should I look for in garage alarms?
It largely depends on where your garage is. A smart security system will be ideal if access between your house corridor and your garage is only a door away. But if you have a separate unit either halfway down your garden or at a garage bay, a standard PIR system will be better suited.
Loads of people will hide motion sensors within trees or fences outside their home or garage. So ensuring the equipment is waterproof is key, as well as ensuring they have a clear view ahead. Blockages of plants or walls may affect the sensory vision being projected. So, study where you want them to be positioned before buying. Don't forget that a security floodlight can also come in handy here, used in unison with the alarm to make an effective nighttime deterrent.
Is it worth paying the subscription charges that some brands require?
Ultimately, that's down to you and your monthly budgeting. Usually, that's found within smart security systems which can be paired with Alexa and the like. However, we believe that monthly fees are more effective with outdoor security cameras instead. This is purely because you get more visually effective security and you can do a lot more to control your property. Alarms are best used as an alert system rather than something to add to a smart home.
Aaron Hussain is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He is obsessed with classic cars and anything with a fascinating story to tell.