Every year, thousands of cars are stolen across Canada, representing a significant challenge for the country. Understanding the methods used by thieves to break into vehicles can be key to addressing this issue.
As car thieves increasingly employ advanced devices to bypass security measures, automakers are continuously working to enhance vehicle security by introducing updated protocols.
No matter how crafty thieves try to be—whether they’re messing with wires, using relay attacks, or even hacking into the car’s computer system (CAN bus)—their end goal is always the same: to start the car’s engine and drive off. That’s where IGLA comes in.
A contemporary security device that immobilizes the vehicle and prevents the ignition from turning on is the IGLA anti-theft security device!
This article is your one-stop resource for all the information you need to know about this anti-theft gadget!
Here we go.
What is an IGLA anti-theft device?
The IGLA anti-theft device is a tiny car security device that disables your ignition system and prevents theft or carjacking attempts.
How do you set the IGLA anti-theft pincode?
Just as your phone requires a unique code to unlock, similarly, the vehicle necessitates a personalized code for authentication before it can be started.
This customized code by IGLA provides multiple layers of protection. It can be activated or deactivated using various methods, including a personal tag, a smartphone device, or a PIN code.
PIN code:
IGLA converts the automobile’s dashboard, driver-side door panel buttons, and steering wheel into something resembling a computer keyboard when a pin code is entered.
An authorized dealer, such as Duram autos or car system installation CSI installs this pin code. The cost of installation by experts could be between $800 and $900.
Personal tag or key fob:
The IGLA anti-theft system also features fobs that are ideal for instances when you’re allowing someone else to use your car. These fobs enable the car to start while still preventing communication with your vehicle’s computer.
A smartphone device:
You can also use a smartphone app with IGLA to control and monitor your vehicle’s security system from anywhere. You may activate or deactivate the anti-theft system, lock or unlock the vehicle’s doors, or even start the engine remotely.
The app may also provide features to monitor the status of your vehicle, such as its location, if the engine is on or off, and any alerts triggered by the anti-theft system.
What is the main role of an IGLA anti theft device?
IGLA is like the ultimate gatekeeper for your car’s ignition. It stands guard, ready to foil any attempt to start the engine without your permission.
So, even if thieves bypass other security measures, once they hit that ignition, IGLA blocks the ignition system, stops them dead in their tracks, and keeps your car right where it belongs: safe and sound.
What does the IGLA anti-theft device look like?
This is how the IGLA anti-theft device looks like:
Image courtesy of Techmod
Where is the IGLA anti-theft device installed?
The IGLA anti-theft device is typically installed discreetly within your vehicle. It’s commonly hidden from plain sight, making it harder for potential thieves to locate and tamper with it.
Usually, it’s placed in a secure location within the car’s interior, such as under the dashboard or near the steering column.
This positioning lets the device connect to the car’s electrical system and ignition mechanism effectively, ensuring optimal security against theft attempts.
Image courtesy of YouTube
What types of car theft attempts does the IGLA anti-theft system guard against?
- Unauthorized key usage:
If someone attempts to start the vehicle with a duplicate or unauthorized key, the IGLA device prevents the ignition system from engaging, thwarting the theft attempt.
- Hotwiring:
In an attempted hotwiring, where the thief tries to bypass the ignition system to start the car, the IGLA device intervenes by disabling the ignition system, preventing the engine from starting.
- Carjacking:
The IGLA device can also deter carjacking attempts by immobilizing the vehicle, making it difficult for thieves to drive away even if they gain access to the car by force.
- ECU programming:
A recent article by the Chief Technical Officer of Canis Automotive Labs sheds light on how thieves, in mere minutes, target the vehicle’s body panels to reach and reprogram the ECU, enabling them to steal the car.
The IGLA system counters this by blocking ECU communication, meaning any attempt to connect it to an external computer for access is thwarted.
Unauthorized access to the car’s computer is prevented unless the system is first authenticated by you!
How does the IGLA anti-theft device work?
It functions through a distinctive method of locking the car doors by utilizing the vehicle’s standard circuit conduit. This means that there is no need for extra wiring, which thieves could potentially discover.
1. Standard Circuit Conduit:
IGLA operates by using the standard circuit conduit of your car. This means it integrates with your vehicle’s existing electrical system, eliminating the need for any visible or easily accessible wiring.
By tapping into the standard circuit, IGLA enhances security while maintaining a discreet presence.
2. Door Locking Mechanism:
One of the primary functions of IGLA is its door-locking mechanism. Upon activation, the system engages the locks on all doors of the vehicle. This feature is a formidable barrier against thieves breaking into your car.
3. Protection Against Carjacking:
In addition to preventing theft, IGLA is designed to thwart carjacking attempts. With its rapid response capabilities, the system can swiftly secure the doors, restricting the perpetrator’s ability to enter the vehicle and ensuring the safety of occupants.
Advantages of the IGLA anti-theft device:
Discreet installation:
One of the key strengths of the IGLA device is its discreet nature. It remains hidden within the vehicle. If the thieves can’t find it, they won’t be able to disengage it.
This invisibility adds an extra layer of security, as thieves won’t know the device is present until it’s too late.
Compact size:
The IGLA device is compact and discreet, ensuring it doesn’t take up valuable space within the vehicle. Despite its small size, it packs a powerful punch regarding security capabilities.
Resistance to cloning, copying, or bypassing:
Unlike other anti-theft devices, the IGLA device cannot be cloned, copied, or bypassed. Its advanced technology and encryption make it virtually impossible for thieves to replicate or circumvent its security features.
No additional wiring:
With IGLA, there’s no need for extra wiring, simplifying the installation process and minimizing the chances of tampering or bypassing by criminals.
This streamlined setup ensures optimal security without compromising the integrity of your vehicle’s electrical system.
Disadvantages of the IGLA anti-theft device:
Despite IGLA being hailed as a top-notch alarm system, promising high security for your vehicle, there are a few things you must consider before installing the system:
- Frequency of Startup: For individuals who frequently make short trips daily, the process becomes an interruption. Initiating the vehicle with IGLA involves waiting for the gauges to sweep, entering the PIN, and then waiting for confirmation, which takes quite a while.
- Potential Errors: Early entry of the PIN results in an error message on the dashboard, signaling a malfunction that feels uncomfortable to the vehicle owner.
- Smartphone Authentication: Although smartphone authentication seems promising, it doesn’t address the challenge of taking the vehicle in for service.
Step by step: How does the IGLA anti-theft device work?
Step 1: Initial Attempt to Start the Vehicle.
When you try to start the engine, it won’t start because the vehicle has not yet been authenticated.
Step 2: Code Entry Process.
To authenticate, first turn off the vehicle. Then, restart it and manually enter your code using the steering wheel controls.
A successful entry is confirmed by two beeps and two flashes of the security light, indicating the vehicle has been authenticated.
Step 3: Starting the Engine.
After entering the correct code, press the brake pedal and start the vehicle. The engine should start smoothly, without triggering any check engine lights or displaying error codes.
Note: After shutting down the vehicle, it will require authentication upon each restart to ensure the engine starts.
This vehicle also features an anti-hijack mode. If you’re forced to exit the car at a stop, such as at a crossroad, the car thief may attempt to drive off.
However, after traveling a distance of 300 meters, the IGLA system will prompt for a PIN code. If the correct code isn’t entered, the engine will shut down.
How much does an IGLA anti-theft device cost?
The price of the IGLA anti-theft system in Canada may differ based on a variety of factors. Some IGLA anti-theft providers offer special features and capabilities, such as single CAN-BUS immobilizers and dual CAN-BUS immobilizers.
The installation may also require specific requirements that may enhance the price slightly. Typically, anti-theft systems like IGLA range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Factors like installation fees and any optional accessories or add-ons may also influence the overall cost.
Conclusion:
You should take every necessary action to identify, prevent, and discourage vehicle theft.
The IGLA anti-theft device secures your ignition with a PIN code.
This intelligent and discrete device provides ample time to alert local authorities and protect your valuable vehicle. IGLA is user-friendly and resistant to cloning or bypassing.
If you require security for a fleet of vehicles, we also offer remote video monitoring to car dealership, condo, and parking lot owners, a proactive security solution that swiftly detects and responds to threats.
Contact us for a customized security solution tailored to your business needs!
