Honda ignition - theft problem and solutions

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Ignition Security: Securing Your Ignition Switch from Theft: 

Introduction:  Being the number 1 (or number 2) for the most popular stolen car in America, it's our duty (as a mechanic) to inform you about what you can do to protect yourself. Here are some easy steps to protect yourself.

 Vulnerability #1:  

Problem: The steering lock is compromised and car is stolen.

Solution: The solution is to slow the thieves down by turning your steering wheel until the wheel clicks before leaving the vehicle unattended. By turning the wheel this also prevents towing as well.

Theft antitheft ignition honda acura

 

 Vulnerability #2:  

Problem: When the ignition cylinder is not properly secured the ignition switch cylinder is vulnerable. This tool is common among thieves and to normal citizen and it's known to be fast.

Solution: The solution is to secure the cylinder using a drill and tap screws. The modification is somewhat easy to do but not the best. But it'll slow the thieves down by about 90% if he/she happens to carry no other tools.  What were trying to achieve here is to allow the tumbler cylinder to break in half inside the key cylinder. When the tumbler cylinder breaks in half the cylinder leaves several tumblers (actually called wafers) which locks the key cylinder. The odds of the cylinder breaking correctly is in your favor.  For those who are technically motivated, the tumbler cylinder can be made so that it'll break at a particular point, decreasing the odds against you. This protection only protects from one type of the common bypass tool, but nothing else.

Steps:

  1. Drill several holes into the ignition assembly about: 
    0.1 inch (0.3cm)
    deep
    0.12 inch (.3cm) wide
    0.17 inch (0.45cm) from the edge of the brim, or the uppermost edge of a hollow key cylinder.
  2. Drive the screws into the hole.

           

 

 Vulnerability #3:  

Problem: The car can be taken away without using a blunt force. 

Solution: Install some form of a steering wheel lock (the Club) or an immobilizer. But even these steps are no guarantee. 

Notice: If you're considering an Autolock be warned that putting it on the brake pedal has no effect whatsoever. And putting it on the clutch can allow the car to be driven at low speeds if the wirings are simply bypassed, the clutch cable pulled and the gear is on 1st.

 

 

 Vulnerability #4:  

Problem: Many of the models have poorly designed ignition assembly that is compromised by a piece household object or part of your body  that ranges in price from $0.00 to about $0.50. 

Solution: Use an steering cover collar or disable the electronics. Other solutions include locking the the ignition switch assembly break-off bolt threads with a locking formula, or use a drill and roll pins upon installation (drill a hole thru the thread after tightening and insert the pin) or install an antitheft device. The bolt should be secured and should be prevented from moving. Always don't assume that it will have to take more than two turns to breach the security, because it doesn't.

 

Conclusion: Unfortunately, there are no best way to protect your car. The best solution is to disable your car's electronics as well as a physical lock. By disabling an electronic module not located near the ignition switch, you've lessen your odds. And please don't attempt to do any electrical modifications unless you can live with the fact that there is a high chance your car can stall in traffic. 

 

It’s a real scary feeling to know that somebody wants something you have, and there’s nothing you can do about it.

These are only part of the information. There are more. Little of what is here are here to help, so please don't get any wild ideas. A hard earn pays is more rewarding than anything else. Just remember that the Honda ignition lock is not the best security and it would be a good idea to take steps to reduce theft.

 

Some of you might ask. What does the author use? I use a momentary starter kill device with a hood cable hood release rerouted and hidden away. On the second car I use a starter kill with a hood lock, but no rerouting of the hood release. The hood lock is nothing but a normal bicycle chain and a normal lock and key. There is no drilling involve. Just remove the lock and leave the chain behind and the hood can be open. Protecting the hood from opening is important because that is where they can force the car to start but it doesn't protect from being push or towed away. Good luck.