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Mitsubishi Evo-8: Alarm System and Theft Protection

Andrew Totolos takes a Mitsu Evo into the high-security zone — with an alarm system, pager alert, wireless entry, remote start, trunk security and some VIN tricks to make the car less enticing to the criminal element.

From "Tricked Out"
episode DTRK-406

(Continued from page 4)

Would you hand your keys over to this man?

PDF
Download VIN cards in .pdf format

WEB EXTRA: Concealed VIN Cards

Often when a car is stolen, thieves attempt to alter the vehicle identification number, or VIN, so the car is unidentifiable. You can help the police identify your car quickly by hiding some ID cards in the vehicle.

The easiest way to do this is by leaving them under the carpet in the trunk or by dropping some down inside the door panels. The ID cards should contain only the VIN, license plate number and state.

Figure K

Figure L

Separately Keyed Trunk-Latch

For his last anti-theft modification, Andrew installs a new trunk latch. This latch will have a separate key from the ignition. The owner will be able to hand off the ignition key to, for instance, a valet and still have her valuables locked securely in the trunk.

Materials/tools:

trunk latch
standard shop tools

Steps:

Begin the change out by popping the remote trunk release linkage loose from the lock.
Reach in with some pliers and pull out the retaining clip (figure K).
The lock slides out, and the new latch can be installed.
Once the new latch is in, reuse the same retaining clip, and pop the linkage back into place (figure L).
Be sure to disconnect the remote trunk release on the key fob and the trunk release inside the car. And make sure the emergency escape handle inside the trunk still works.

The Bottom Line — All Projects:

Alarm system $400
Digital multi-meter $25
Soldering kit $20
Custom stencil etching kit $20
Trunk lock replacement $25
VIN card trick N/C

Total = $490

Savings from installing it yourself: $800

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