Older Honda cars from the 1990s and very early 2000s are frequently stolen because they lack modern security features such as keys with transponder chips and engine immobilizers. The most commonly stolen are Accords (especially pre-1998) and Civics (mainly pre-2001). These vehicles can often be hotwired or started with worn or shaved keys that easily fit the ignition, making them quick targets for thieves. Additionally, the high demand for Honda parts—due to their popularity and the ease of reselling components—makes these cars especially attractive to criminals.
Prevention
Don’t forget to read our full article on Layered Defense for Auto Theft Prevention for a more comprehensive general guide. But here are some helpful anti-theft tactics if you own an older Honda:
Aftermarket Alarm Systems
Since these older Hondas have very little in terms of security, aftermarket alarm systems can go a long way. The thieves are likely not going to be prepared to bypass the alarm and with a 2-way system you will get an early alert of a theft. A quality alarm system is a good investment in theft prevention as long as you don’t mind spending the money to get it done right. Many alarm systems have features like:
- Starter Immobilizers that prevent car from being started if alarm is armed- even with the key.
- 2-way notifications that alert you via your key fob or phone when your alarm is going off.
- Shock sensors that set off alarm when vehicle is hit
- Audio glass break sensors that listen for your glass being broken
- Tilt Sensors that can detect if your vehicle is being towed or jacked up to steal wheels.
- Built in GPS
- Blinking light for deterrence
(Read more about aftermarket alarm systems
Immobilizing Devices
Because the cars we’re talking about here did not come with security keys/engine immobilizers, adding an aftermarket immobilizing device will make a big impact on how difficult it is to steal your Honda.
- Ravelco– The Ravelco is probably going to be the most difficult to defeat option for these cars, however, it is likely going to be the most expensive, typically costing around $800-$1,000. It works by using a unique plug, typically located under your dash or steering wheel, that is discretely wired deep into your vehicle’s wiring harness, that disables one or more critical components required to start the vehicle when the plug is removed. These are typically much more deeply integrated into your car’s wiring system than other options, making it harder for a thief to bypass, however, it is up for debate how often a thief will actually try to identify and bypass security systems on an older vehicle that was expected to be an easy target. It is important to remember that the Ravelco will only prevent theft if you remove the plug and take it with you when you leave your vehicle. (Read more about Ravelco here.)
- Certain types of aftermarket alarm systems– Most aftermarket alarm systems include a starter-interrupt feature that prevents the engine from cranking when the system is armed. Installed cost typically ranges from about $500 to over $1,000 depending on the system. While these starter interrupts are generally easier for thieves to bypass than a dedicated immobilizer like a Ravelco, they are more convenient to use since they activate automatically when you lock the car. For better protection, an alarm system can be used alongside a Ravelco or other immobilizer as part of a layered security setup. (Read more on alarm systems here.)
- Kill switches– Kill switches are a less effective form of immobilization, but they can still be worthwhile if you’re looking for a more affordable option. They work by wiring a hidden toggle, button, or magnetic switch into the vehicle’s starting system to prevent the car from starting when the switch is off. Because they don’t use a unique plug or coded remote, they’re easier for a thief to defeat if the switch is discovered. If you choose this option, take the time to hide the real switch well and consider installing a non-functional decoy switch to add confusion. Kill switches can be installed by most mechanics or experienced DIYers. (Read more about kill switches here.)
- Remote Battery Disconnect Switches– Remote battery disconnect switches are another low-cost option, but they come with tradeoffs. They’re easy to install yourself and typically cost around $30. These devices install on the negative battery cable and allow you to cut power to the vehicle with a small remote. The main downsides are that disconnecting the battery also disables alarm systems, and a determined thief can find the switch easily if they look under the hood. Even so, many thieves won’t take the time to diagnose a vehicle with no power. (Read more on remote battery disconnect here.)
- JDI Ghost Power RFID Kill Switch– The JDI Ghost Power RFID kill switch is a discreet theft-prevention option that uses a hidden RFID reader to allow the vehicle to start only when a programmed tag is present. Without the tag, power to the ignition is cut, preventing the car from starting even with the key. They offer these devices “plug & play” for many Honda models, making for an easy install. (See more about Ghost Power Here)
- JDI Ghost Lock Tracking System/Remote Disable– The Ghost Lock doubles as both a tracking device and an immobilizer, and allows you to remotely disable your car from your phone (subscription required). This is also available to directly fit a wide variety of Hondas. (See more about Ghost Lock Here)
- Cyclops TAM– The Cyclops TAM replaces a factory relay and can be turned on or off with the included remote. When disabled, it prevents the vehicle from starting unless the relay is reinstalled or the system is reactivated. (See more here)
“The Club” (Steering Wheel Locks)
Steering wheel locks are more effective than many people give them credit for, and they are a relatively cheap layer of security to add. While they can be defeated fairly easily, many thieves do not want to go through the trouble, and may not even be equipped to do so. And because they tend to be bright-colored and highly visible, it is a good deterrent that thieves can typically see before they start their attempt, potentially saving you from other damage. (Read more about clubs here.)
Brake/Clutch Pedal Locks
Brake and clutch pedal locks come in various designs, but all work by preventing the pedal from being pressed, which can stop the vehicle from being started or shifted. They add an extra obstacle for thieves, though they aren’t as strong of a visual deterrent as steering wheel locks and are less convenient to use since they’re typically installed from outside the vehicle. (Read more about pedal locks here.)
“Boots”/Wheel Locks and Similar Devices
You’ve probably seen cars get “booted” for parking violations, and similar wheel locks are available for personal use. They’re effective deterrents, but can be cumbersome for daily use, so they only make sense if you’re willing to use them consistently. Wheel locks add time, effort, and risk for a thief, making them a solid addition to other security measures, especially if the car will be left unattended for an extended period, such as during a vacation. (Read more about wheel locks here.)
Gear Shifter Lock
Similar to a steering wheel club, a gear shifter lock is a strong visual deterrent that can add significant time and effort to a theft. When properly installed, it prevents the shifter from moving, so you can’t get it into gear. Many thieves won’t want to take the time to defeat it, and even if they do, the added delay increases the risk of being caught. (See more about gear shifter locks here.)
Drive a Car with a Manual Transmission
Many of these Hondas came with manual transmissions, which certainly does narrow down the amount of people who can drive the car. However, since manual transmission were fairly common on these cars, its likely that a thief targeting them will know how to drive one, so please don’t rely on this a s your anti-theft plan.
JDI Ghost Key Push-To-Start Conversion
The Ghost Key push-to-start conversion by Jordan Distributors is a good anti-theft option for older Honda models without security keys. It works by replacing your car’s existing ignition with a push button ignition that requires an RFID tag to be scanned before the vehicle will start. The RFID key tags/card provided only work within a few inches, so they are not susceptible to relay attacks like traditional push-to-start keys. This product is available as a plug and play installation for a wide range of Honda and Acura models, and is also available in a universal install model if it’s not available for your vehicle. (See More Here)
Removing a Fuse or Relay
A no-cost way to prevent your car from starting is to remove a required fuse or relay and keep it with you. Most thieves won’t take the time to diagnose why a vehicle won’t start and will move on. If you’re mechanically inclined, your owner’s manual can help identify the correct fuse, or a mechanic can advise you. Be careful not to remove a fuse tied to other security features or one that could cause damage if the car is started without it, and make sure you don’t lose it. While dedicated immobilizers are far more convenient, this can be a useful extra step if the vehicle will be left unattended for an extended period or if you’re on a tight budget. Beware that overuse of this method has the potential to cause wear on the electrical connections.
Tracking Devices
If you end up needing a tracking device, something definitely went wrong, but it can make a huge difference in recovery. Providing police with a GPS location can speed up recovery and improve the chances of getting the vehicle back in better condition. Trackers also offer peace of mind by letting you check your car’s location at any time or find it in a large parking area. There are many tracking options available, including hardwired and battery-powered devices that use GPS, cellular, or Bluetooth technology, each with its own pros and cons. (Read more about the different types of tracking devices here)
