The Ravelco anti-theft device is a highly regarded engine immobilizer that works by interrupting multiple electrical circuits, preventing the vehicle from starting unless a special plug is inserted into a concealed dashboard socket. Ravelco claims that their device has never been defeated by a thief. The device is very difficult to bypass without knowing exactly how it’s wired, and each unit is custom-installed to ensure uniqueness. However, there are some downsides: the system requires the user to manually insert and remove the plug every time they drive, which can be inconvenient, and it is only effective as long as the plug isn’t left inside the vehicle. Additionally, a couple of videos have surfaced online allegedly showing a method of defeating the Ravelco, though it is unclear whether or not it involved an incorrect or poorly executed installation, as the videos were posted by someone who sells and installs a competing product. It is also hard to say that many thieves would go to the extent of trying to bypass a Ravelco, but it does highlight the importance of not relying on any single device and instead using Ravelco as part of a layered theft prevention strategy. It would also be smart to choose for your plug to be mounted somewhere discreet, since most thieves won’t see one of these before breaking in, and if they are unaware of what immobilizer your vehicle has, bypassing will be more of a challenge. Ravelco is only sold through authorized installers, so getting one installed can vary in difficulty based on your location.
