Over 1 million cars were stolen in the United States in 2023 alone. World car theft is even more alarming, costing car owners billions of dollars annually.
And since many car owners can afford car theft insurance covers, they install alarm systems for cars to deter burglary. But with so many car alarm systems in the market, what do customers look for when choosing the right product for their vehicles?
The answer to this question can help retailers know what car alarms to stock to increase sales. So read on for everything you need to know about selecting the best car alarms for your buyers in 2025!
Table of Contents
Understanding car alarm systems
Types of car alarm systems
Global market overview of car security systems
Factors customers consider when choosing a car alarm system
Improve your store sales with the right car alarm systems
Understanding car alarm systems
Modern car owners can install different car alarm systems ranging from door sensors to sophisticated proximity sensors. But how do they work?
Car alarms have sensors, and when they’re on, they receive a response- through touch, proximity, or an unusual activity near the vehicle. This response will activate the alarm to make a sound or continuously flashlights.
The car security alarm system has a computer, a receiver, a loudspeaker, and other sensors. For instance, the ultrasonic sensors detect unusual movement in the car’s interior.
Types of car alarm systems
A car alarm system is either passive or active. A passive car alarm system automatically activates once the ignition is turned off and all the doors are closed, reducing the risk of forgetting to set it. On the other hand, an active alarm system requires the driver to activate the alarm manually. Understanding this difference can help retailers recommend the right choice for their target market.
1. Passive car alarm systems
It is passive because it automatically activates once the ignition is turned off and all the doors are closed. The car user doesn’t have to engage the system manually, thus reducing the risk of forgetting to set it.
Passive car alarm is the most common vehicle protection system. Besides, its convenient automatic activation ensures battery safety and offers constant protection.
2. Active car alarm systems
Unlike passive car alarm systems, active alarm systems require the driver to activate the alarm manually. The system remains inactive until the user engages it.
However, you may wonder if car alarm systems are worth stocking as a retailer. Let’s find out in the next section.
Global market overview of car security systems
The global car security system market was valued at US$ 8.66 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% to exceed US$ 16.93 billion in 2036.
Retailers can take advantage of this demand surge to increase sales. Several factors propel this growth, such as:
· Increased global motor vehicle production.
· The growing adoption of electric vehicles raises the demand for passive alarm systems.
· Most car insurance companies demand that the vehicles they cover have car security systems.
· Government regulations mandate manufacturers to include basic alarm protection measures for the new models.
· Car owners desire to protect their investments and have peace of mind.
Statistics show projected demand for car security systems, allowing retailers to make money. However, a retailer should know what customers want in a vehicle alarm system.
Factors customers consider when choosing a car alarm system
Knowing what customers prioritize can help retailers stock products that meet their needs and drive sales. Here are some key factors to remember.
Level of protection
The truth is- not all car alarm systems offer the same level of protection. Budget-conscious customers will likely prefer the audible car alarm system with only basic features like door sensors and sirens.
On the other hand, some car owners who want advanced car protection will invest in GPS alarm systems and two-way paging alarms with advanced features like GPS tracking, remote start, motion sensors, and ignition cut-off technology.
Compatibility with vehicle
Car alarms are not one size fits all. Different customers choose different alarm systems that are compatible with their vehicle model.
Alarms for trucks are not the same as those for SUVs or luxury vehicles. As a retailer, it is essential you stock different alarm systems that will work seamlessly with your customers’ car’s existing electronics and features. You should also stock alarms that suit old vehicles or cars without modern security.
Smart features
Technology permeates every human life because of its convenience and security. Car security systems customers constantly seek products with smart features to monitor their car’s security from anywhere. These smart features include smartphone apps, GPS tracking, and motion sensors that give vehicle owners control. Tech-savvy users find smartphone apps useful in arming/disarming, monitoring, and receiving notifications remotely.
Security car alarm systems like smart car alarm systems have smart features such as smartphone apps, GPS tracking, and motion sensors that give vehicle owners control. Tech-savvy users find smartphone apps useful in arming/disarming, monitoring, and receiving notifications remotely.
Remote start
Car owners value convenience, and the remote start system fulfills this demand. Besides providing a keyless entry, car owners can start their vehicles and adjust the temperature inside before entering. This feature is useful in extreme weather conditions, allowing car owners to warm up or cool down their cars before entering.
While some manufacturers install remote starters, other vehicles don’t have this security feature. Car owners without these protection mechanisms may want to invest in a remote start system to enjoy the convenience of keyless entry, the comfort of controlled temperature, and the luxury of peace of mind.
Budget
Like any product, the customer’s budget determines what car alarm system they select. While every car owner may want top-of-the-line security systems, others may be constrained by a budget.
Fortunately, these alarms range from a more affordable entry-level system to high-end systems at a premium price. As a retailer, know your customer base and determine what car security alarm system you’ll stock more.
Mild-range systems that balance affordability and advanced features like remote start are often popular with most customers. So, stocking across various price ranges can attract a broader audience to your store.
Improve your store sales with the right car alarm systems
As car manufacture and demand increase, car owners invest in sophisticated car alarm systems to prevent thieves from stealing them. Retailers who meet this demand with the right product improve their sales and build enduring brands.
