Hello all,

It's high time I secure my car. I have done my own install of audio gear, but do not trust myself with the alarm.

I think I would like a DEI (Viper/Python/Clifford) alarm, based on many reports of ease-of use and general quality. If you have real information (not anectodal) about why CompuStar should also be considered, please let me know.

Does Futureshop install these things properly? If so, can they do the necessary accessories as well (backup battery, starter kill, glass break)?

Can you recommend a well-established shop that can?

Thanks!

 

How about Visions? Do they install alarms properly?

I can't find any local shops that install Viper/DEI alarms in Vancouver. If you know of one, please let me know.

 

I',m not sure that it can be generalized that "does FS install right". There are alot of variables, themain one being who is the installer at that specific store. I know locally of only 1 person that had them install one on his wife's new Charokee and he had issues. But hey, you could move onto the next store an maybe a get someone really good.

On your compustar question, I do know that 3 or 4 years ago, they had better range than the Vipers but I see that the new Viper info is suggesting much longer range now.

 

Compustar is great product. I have used them for almost 8 years now and will not return to a DEI made item again. Ease of use and ease of installation makes it all worthwhile.

 

Thanks guys!

That make sense about FS install. I've just read so many horror stories, I'm not sure if I'd want to take the chance.

Good to know about compustar Mr2nr... that opens up the options for installation.

 

Future Shop in Langley is the place to go!

 

Better remove Clifford from your list of brands then! ha

 

well having installed since 90 i can safely say that most install related issues are not the problem with the product, but with the installer.... so due some homework on the shops credibility, how long has the installer been doing this, do they stand behind there work, if you need warranty, where can you get it... this one is super important.... the problem with smaller companies is if you need warranty.............you have to go back to THAT store..not good when you are out of town..... but the good thing is the quality control of the independant is usually better than the box chains.... as far as alarms go personally i wouldnt touch compu-junk and would stick with something reliable like viper.... also viper gives you northamerican coverage at ANY dei dealership. compu-junk doest... vipers egronomics are nicer, and there alarms meet all fcc standards unlike compu-junk. now langley f.s. would be a nice place to get your alarm installed. also dan in surrey or white rock would love to take care of your alarm needs.. good luck....

 

I install at Futureshop and we mostly install Compustars and Vipers. The one good thing about getting it installed at Futureshop is the warranty. The labour is warrantied for a lifetime, so if you have any issues labour related your covered, and for about $30 u can add an extended 4 year warranty to any unit you purchase as well so any issues with the unit and they just give you a new one installed no charge to you. Plus anything goes wrong during install, big store like Futureshop has to pay for all the repairs

 

As far as the Compustar vs Viper argument, I've noticed the Vipers to be more reliable depending on the model. If you put top Viper vs top Compustar I personally prefer the Viper just because there are a lot more add ons that dei makes to just plug n play into the unit. Tilt sensors, proximity sensors etc...