After spending a significant amount of cash on a new car, most folks want to keep it safe from vandalism or burglary. One great way to upgrade your vehicle, while enhancing its security is to add a car alarm.
With car alarms falling into a wide range of price points, it can be a difficult task for the consumer looking to get the best performance for their money.
Dealspotr analyzed reviews of several car alarms currently selling for under $100, looking for the best value and performance. Because it offers excellent protection and solid features for only $86.84 on Amazon, the Directed Electronics Avital 3300 is our choice for best car alarm under $100. It is also available at Best Buy ($97.33), Sonic Electronix ($94.99), and Walmart ($87.49).
Not only does Top Ten Reviews designate the Directed Electronics Avital 3300 as a 2015 Bronze Award Winner by slotting it at #3 on their “10 Best Car Alarm Security System” list, the online electronics publication also gives it an 8.8/10 overall rating.
As far as features go, Top Ten Reviews’ writer finds that the Avital 3300 offers a solid array of features. These features include basic keyless entry, alarm arming, shock sensors, and a six-siren alarm.
The car alarm includes a remote with a built-in LCD display screen.
When your vehicle is threatened, the remote immediately alerts the owner while the display precisely indicates what part of the vehicle is being tampered with.
Additionally, the Avital 3300 includes a starter-kill feature. This program works with your engine to prevent the car from being driven away by a would-be thief. This starter-kill can be enabled from your remote, keeping the car in one place while you alert the authorities.
Top Ten Reviews and purchaser reviews on Amazon make a point of mentioning the alarm’s remote starter feature. The remote starter is an excellent convenience during extreme weather seasons -– it can heat or cool your car to a comfortable temperature before you enter.
As far as customer support, Top Ten Reviews found that Directed Electronics provides top-notch service. The reviewer explains that it is easy to get through to the company via email or telephone, and all questions are answered in a timely and helpful fashion.
The Avital 3300 also includes a lifetime warranty.
Despite coming in at #3 on Top Ten Reviews’ 2015 car alarm list, there are a few downsides to the Directed Electronics Avital 3300.
Their reviewer notes that although the manufacturer offers an insightful user manual and great customer service, it is best to have the device professionally installed. Most vehicle owners do not have the appropriate experience to ensure all features are correctly installed.
Top Ten Reviews also takes a few points off of the Avital 3300’s score because the remote does not have a silent or vibrate mode.
While the Amazon user reviews for the Avital 3300 are quite strong, averaging 4/5 stars, there are a few common complaints heard – even from customers who generally like the product.
Some owners complain about reception fluctuations, with the connection sometimes working only from close ranges like 30 feet while other times covering up to 100 yards of distance. Another complaint heard in the Amazon review section is that the Avital 3300 has a weak-sounding siren.
Other Amazon users echo Top Ten Reviews’ observation that the car alarm requires professional installation; several mention having a difficult time properly installing the accessory.
For auto owners who are seeking a high degree of security for their vehicle without breaking the bank, the Directed Electronics Avital 3300 is an easy choice. For less than $100, this car alarm provides the features and user-friendliness of much more expensive models.
