Automotive Industry Definition | Vehicle Manufacturing Industries Ltd. The automotive industry encompasses all companies and activities involved in producing motor vehicles. Its primary products are light trucks and passenger automobiles such as sport utility vehicles (SUV), pickups, vans and sedans; while eighteen-wheelers and delivery trucks tend to fall outside its purview.
Visit car shows and speak with those working there – these employees often possess vast knowledge about cars that could help guide you in your search for what you’re searching for.
Immobilizer
An engine immobilizer is one of the best tools available to combat car theft. By connecting to several circuits in a car’s electrical system and intercepting various key fob signals, an immobilizer prevents its ignition without the correct key fob being present. When combined with GPS tracking software this provides real-time monitoring & alerts in case of theft or suspicious activity.
These systems use transponder chips embedded into keys which contain an electronic security code similar to your password. When the key is inserted, this code is sent directly to the ECU; if it matches what the ECU expects then engine start-up occurs; otherwise it shuts off immediately.
NHTSA’s final rule will allow manufacturers to seek an exemption from parts marking requirements by providing proof that their antitheft device meets one of four performance criteria accepted by Transport Canada for use in CMVSS No. 114. This approach offers manufacturers an efficient means of harmonizing antitheft standards with those in Canada.
Hidden Kill Switch
Hidden kill switches are one of the best ways to keep your car secure from theft, with this time-tested anti-theft method discreetly installing one within its ignition wire that, when activated, disrupts electrical or fuel flow to render your engine inoperable and protect against theft.
One type of hidden kill switch is a battery disconnect switch, which physically disconnects power from a vehicle’s battery. While most kill switches feature knobs for activation purposes, this kind can be activated through its remote which makes activation much simpler for everyday drivers.
While a kill switch cannot stop determined thieves from physically taking your vehicle, it does make it much more challenging and time-consuming for them. When installed properly and affordably, kill switches provide practical and cost-effective anti-theft measures; when combined with other security measures – like GPS tracking systems which help locate stolen vehicles quickly – they provide maximum protection.
Window Stickers
Window stickers are an integral component of inventory marking for vehicles. They serve as an easy way to display information about a car and help customers make an informed decision before purchasing, while simultaneously deterring fraudsters. In general, window stickers provide customers with information such as manufacturer’s bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage, powertrain coverage and roadside assistance provided by manufacturer as well as safety ratings from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for frontal, side impact testing as well as rollover scores.
Window stickers may provide information on a vehicle’s assembly and sourcing, including how much of its parts were assembled or purchased within the US or Canada. Window stickers also often include dealer addendum labels to display any non-factory equipment or accessories installed at an additional price from dealerships, often displayed alongside its official Monroney label and listing exclusive warranties or advantages offered through them. It is law that dealers provide buyers with their window sticker.
Etching the Windows
Car dealers sometimes charge consumers an additional fee to etch the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into their windshield or windows of their vehicles, with this action intended to deter thieves as it makes selling parts more difficult; additionally, police and insurance companies will use this VIN number in case the vehicle is ever stolen and recovered by authorities.
Some auto insurance companies even provide discounts for vehicles equipped with VIN etching as it has proven itself effective at deterring theft. While not mandatory, consumers should only opt-in if they feel it will provide peace of mind or possibly reduce insurance premiums. If a dealership insists on including this charge as part of their car purchase agreement then consumers are strongly advised not to go with that dealership because this practice can often result in extra profits being pocketed without fair consideration to consumers.
