Electronic immobilizing devices prevent thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot wiring the vehicle. Some devices have computer chips in ignition keys. Other manual devices inhibit the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine until a hidden switch is activated. A third category passively immobilizes the vehicle by interrupting the starter, ignition and fuel. Device A tracking system emits a signal to police or monitoring service when the vehicle is reported stolen.
Tracking systems are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles.