i searched through the site but i need more info.

i bought my E420 used. the previous owner had installed an aftermarket alarm through a local installer. other than that, i don't have much info on the unit.

i HATE the alarm on the car. the previous owner did mention that he too hated the setup and that he wished he had installed the unit via MB dealer. (so based on the limited info that i have, i am guessing that the original installer didn't do it properly and/or he/she wasn't a MB mechanic.)

at any rate, i would like the have the unit removed and replace it with something new. my questions are:

1) what aftermarket alarms do you recommend? i realize that one can spend a lot of money on this. my belief is that if someone really wants your car, he/she will take it. so i don't want to go crazy. i am willing to spend 250-300 max.

2) should i get the local MB dealer to do this work? would you trust the installation by local electronic stores like best buy, circuit city, etc, etc.

i am curious. didn't 94 E classes come with factory alarm? it must not be because i have an aftermarket. it seems odd that such a luxury car didn't come with one.

at any rate, any advise would be very helpful. my current alarm is just too damn annoying.

thanks

won

Your car comes with a factory alarm. These alarms don't work on impact. Only when they open the doors and try to start the car or steal the radio.

Personally, I have the same belief. If someone is determined to steal or vandalise your car they will do it. Even when the alarm sounds the damage has already been done. However, they are good to scare them off (sometimes), and preventing them from doing more damage.
They are also good for the keyless entry.

Anyway, I am pretty sure that someone can setup the current alarm system to your specs. Make sure the impact sensor isn't too sensitive. Most of the shops know how much force is required to brake a window. The rest are personal prefrences like keyless entry, automatic locking (I'm not a big fan), etc.

I suggest going to a proffesional and have him check it out. This way you can avoid someone cutting more wires in the car to put a different alarm.
They can even change the siren if you find yours annoying. Personally, I like the Alpine sound. If installed properly you'll probably never have to hear it.

One more thing that many people overlook is how quickly aftermarket alarms can drain your battery. Most of them can drain the big 100Ah Mercedes battery in about five to seven days.

Vin