Every responsible car owner tries to take care not only of his own safety by maintaining the car in good condition, but also of the safety of the vehicle itself. We are talking about protection from unlawful attacks by third parties.
One of the effective ways to protect your car from theft is to mechanically lock the steering wheel, pedal assembly and gearbox. At the same time, in the case of mechanics, there are many solutions, but difficulties may arise on models with automatic transmission. Next we will talk about what an automatic transmission lock is, how the locking mechanism works and how it works.
Types of mechanical locks for cars
Today, the chance to part with a car, especially in a large metropolis, is more than great.
Despite all the efforts of law enforcement agencies, theft statistics are growing by leaps and bounds. Car thieves feel quite free, since their weapons today include the most modern devices for opening even “intelligent” anti-theft systems. Most often, so-called grabbers are used for these purposes.
Even a schoolchild can use such devices, let alone “professional” thieves. Therefore, purchasing an expensive security system cannot give you a 100% guarantee that nothing will happen to your vehicle. What to do?
Experts recommend not to rely only on modern electronic devices. It is best to supplement your alarm system with conventional mechanical interlocks. The fact is that even after bypassing the alarm, car thieves will have to spend a lot of time and effort to break the mechanical lock.
There are no universal keys for it, and the design of this device is so complex that no master key will help. Do not forget that the main function of the alarm is not to tell where the thief went in your car, but to prevent him from doing it.
Blockers are best suited for this task.
Functions and principle of operation of mechanical anti-theft locks
By and large, anti-theft locks are modified mechanical locks that prevent the car from starting to move. Such “anti-theft” devices include locking and force mechanisms.
According to their functional features, blockers can be:
- locking control mechanisms;
- restricting the movement of a car, including its towing;
- protecting against illegal entry into the interior or under the hood of a car.
Depending on the method of use of the device, there are:
- adapted (suitable for specific car brands);
- universal (used for different vehicles);
- portable (such blockers can be removed from one car and placed on another);
- stationary (installed as a standard element, removed only in specialized workshops).
Removable locks are characterized by low reliability, so it is better to give preference to built-in models.
When choosing a good mechanical lock, it is important to pay attention to the reliability and cryptographic strength of the product.
Healthy! Cryptographic strength is the level of complexity of locking the system (determined by the complex structure of the lock cylinder itself).
The locks are designed to reliably lock the main transport hubs, which we will consider in more detail.
Working principle and functions
Mechanical anti-theft devices are special mechanisms that serve to block the movement of a car. They consist of a locking and power part. By the type of functions they perform, blockers are divided into:
- on holding controls;
- to impede the movement of the vehicle, including towing;
- to prevent unauthorized persons from entering the interior and under the hood of the car.
Depending on the installation method, there are stationary and portable anti-theft devices. The first includes a mechanical gearbox lock, and the second includes a lock on the steering wheel or pedals. The devices can be universal (used on any make of car) or adapted. The latter are installed only on some models.
The operating principle of the lock is based on mechanical locking of the main vehicle controls in the specified position. Due to the low reliability of removable devices, most drivers prefer to install built-in blockers. They must be highly reliable and resistant to unauthorized opening.
Characteristic
Modern lockers for automatic transmissions are also called multilocks. The name comes from Mul-T-Lock. That was the name of the company that created these anti-theft blockers for automatic transmissions. More details about these devices and how to install them on automatic transmissions here.
Such blockers are mounted on the machine itself. But they are created taking into account all the features of an automatic transmission. Therefore, they do not interfere with the driver when the vehicle is moving on the highway.
Some Mul-T-Locks on automatic transmissions are installed in such a way as to be invisible to car thieves. But in fact, it is impossible to find a key for such a lock. Because pin-in-pin technology is used. Thanks to this technology, the key produced by the plant is unique and cannot be counterfeited.
Design
By design, mechanical locks and electromechanical locks are similar to each other in terms of the locking mechanism. For example, to use a mechanical pin automatic transmission lock, you will need to insert the pin into the bracket, and when it is not needed, pull it out.
When using a pinless mechanism, the car owner simply turns the key in the lock, allowing the automatic transmission lever to move forward and backward.
Electronic devices are turned on and off by placing a special chip near the reader. Therefore, such blockers are usually difficult to crack, just like pinless ones. Since the design of locks is strictly individual in each device.
Advantages and disadvantages
Nowadays there are a lot of different anti-theft protection products sold on the markets. But, using them one at a time, you will not be able to achieve exceptional protection for your car against theft.
For example, if you only use electronic security devices, then a thief who knows where they are located can easily disarm them and steal the car. Without a car alarm, an attacker can easily get under the hood, disconnect the battery, and disable the steering wheel or pedal locks.
Attention! Use comprehensive measures to prevent vehicle theft. For example, a car alarm together with a hood lock and an automatic transmission lock.
Although the gearbox lock is effective today. However, if the car is parked in a yard or a poorly guarded parking lot, then it costs nothing for a thief to get close to the car at night, climb into it, disassemble the automatic transmission selector, and remove the lock. This is usually done by experienced mechanics who have taken a “bad road” or become involved with some gangs.
ReadWhere the gas and brake are located on a car with an automatic transmission
Of course, no one will bother so much about a budget and cheap car. Therefore, for such vehicles, a machine blocker is quite sufficient. But owners of expensive cars should think about protecting their vehicle.
Provide expensive car brands with comprehensive protection, which includes not only car alarms, but also mechanical gas pedal locks, automatic transmissions, and locking devices. Use conversational signaling coding. This method has not yet been studied enough by attackers. Therefore, the car will be protected.
Write in the comments what methods of protecting the automatic transmission and car hood do you use? Has your car been stolen?
Operating principle
As I already wrote, the blocker is a lock on the automatic transmission. Its operating principle is to block the gear selector gate. If a car thief manages to get inside the vehicle and turn on the ignition, he will not be able to move the car. Because the pin, which is inserted inside the automatic transmission, blocks the rocker and does not allow it to move to other modes.
In order for the car owner to use the car, the pin will need to be pulled out. This is not very convenient. Therefore, modern manufacturers have come up with pinless mechanisms. It is usually built inside the automatic transmission and can only be moved with the help of a key. You don't have to pull it out.
Attention! If you have a pinless mechanism installed on your automatic transmission, do not forget to lock the box when you get out of the car. Always carry the key with you to avoid loss. Otherwise, disassembling the selector and replacing the blocker will cost you a hefty sum.
There are some other automatic transmission locks. But today, automatic transmission locks are considered the most reliable. If there are hood locks, the doors can be easily removed, the car can be started and stolen. You can’t do this with an automatic transmission blocker.
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Automatic transmission lock
Measures to protect a car from burglary or theft can be different, but they are all divided into separate groups, regardless of what transmission the car is equipped with:
- Alarm/immobilizer (an electronic device that protects a car from theft or theft);
- Hood lock (additional protection of the car from theft or burglary: protection of access to alarm modules, protection against removal of headlights, battery, etc.);
- Steering column lock (if there is no key in the ignition switch or when you try to start the car with a third-party key, the locking device blocks the rotation of the steering wheel);
- Lockers for gear shift lever, pedals, etc. (mechanical devices that protect the car from theft).
Now let's talk in more detail about automatic transmission blockers, why they are needed and how they work. So, an automatic transmission lock is a device whose purpose is to prevent car theft by blocking the gearbox. The first blockers of this type were produced.
They were reliable and durable, it was almost impossible to hack them. Now the term “Mul-T-Lock” combines anti-theft devices from different manufacturers with the same operating principle.
Today, bollards custom-designed for a specific car model are becoming increasingly popular. When manufacturing such a mechanism, the manufacturer takes into account, first of all, the design features of a particular vehicle. The device is locked using a key.
It is very difficult to crack the lock, since the security pin located inside the system encodes the lock of the security mechanism. High-alloy steels used in the production of bollards are resistant to drilling and acids.
Mechanical locks
A mechanical automatic transmission lock can be said to be the most common type of lock at the moment. It is adapted for certain car models, taking into account all the design features of the automatic transmission. Well-known manufacturers produce box locks for almost all popular car models.
Locked selector
The components of the automatic transmission lock are made of increased strength. They are resistant to temperature changes and such an unpleasant thing for any car owner as corrosion. The locking element in the mechanism itself is made of high-strength steel. Its function is to lock the selector on the “automatic” in the “P” (parking) position. The lock cylinder is well protected and is not subject to various vandalism methods - drilling, turning, etc. By the way, a duplicate key can only be made from an official representative, after presenting a personal code card.
An automatic transmission lock is an excellent example of such a simple mechanical security device that can puzzle the most experienced car thief.
Besshtyrevoy
The gearbox lock is built-in and installed inside the box. Despite the name, there is a pin in the lock, but it is not removed by the driver, but is retracted by turning the key. Due to the complexity of installation, it is recommended that the device be installed in an auto repair shop. Due to the fact that there are no visible signs of the presence of a blocker in the cabin, an attacker will not be able to steal the car, since in a manual transmission the lever is locked in the reverse position, and the automatic transmission is locked in the parking mode.
Varieties and types
Today, finding a gearbox lock is not a problem. The main problem is which type (variety) to choose. All gearbox blockers can be divided by design, installation method, manufacturer, and so on. They are mainly pinned, pinless, arc, mechanical and electromechanical.
Shtyrevoy
It is a fairly simple device that is reliable to use. The lock looks like a pin; it is inserted into a special hidden hole in the gearbox. It is necessary to engage a certain gear on the box, for example, reverse on a manual box or position “P” on the box – automatic. Next, the pin is inserted into the hole so that it sticks out slightly. Now, in order to engage the gear and unlock it, you need a separate key inserted into the lock of the lock. This is where the disadvantage of this type of gearbox lock appears - there is a risk of losing the key, and then the owner himself will not be able to drive away in a stolen car. But for a car thief, this option creates considerable problems.
Besshtyrevoy
It differs from the option above only in the installation method. The principle of operation remains the same. The pinless lock is installed inside the gearbox. The pin itself is present, but it is not visible in the interior; there is no longer any need to remove the pin from the box yourself. Also, a specific, special key is required to unlock. This option is good because the car thief does not see whether there is a lock and will not immediately understand why the transmission does not engage. And for the car owner it is easier to use the lock - just turn the key and the box is unlocked or locked. But a pinless lock is difficult to install on the gearbox yourself; it is better to contact a car service, which leads to additional costs.
Arc
This device looks like an arc-shaped bracket; it covers the gear lever. The lever is pressed against the lock and locked; it cannot be moved. The operating principle is simple, but outwardly it looks rather unattractive due to its specific design. There is less reliability, and at the same time the thief sees that there is a blockage at the checkpoint. But if it is made of low-quality steel, then you can safely saw it. The arc gearbox lock is not particularly popular among the population; it is gradually being replaced by pin and pinless versions.
Mechanical
Mechanical gearbox locking means that additional devices must be installed to prevent the moving parts of the gearbox from operating. Mechanical ones include the previously described options: pin, pinless and arc. Mechanical blockers can also be divided into universal and model versions. Universal devices include devices that fit any car. And model ones are intended for installation only on a specific gearbox model. They take into account all the nuances and features of the gearbox. When choosing any mechanical gearbox lock, it is especially necessary to pay attention to the durability and strength of the metal, whether it can withstand sawing attempts, and what is the reliability of the device. You should also make sure that the selected model is suitable for the vehicle and gearbox.
Electromechanical
For lovers of modern devices, there is an alternative option - an electromechanical lock. Outwardly, it is not noticeable and does not take up space in the cabin. The operation of this lock depends on a special electronic tag. It is enough to apply it to the protection, and you can change gears again. At first glance, it is not noticeable where the small point of contact with the key fob is located. But it is quite difficult to hack the device mechanically. The system is securely fixed using shear bolts.
How an automatic transmission lock works: types and types of locks
Blockers are mounted on an automatic transmission (similar to a manual transmission). The only function of the Mul-T-Lock, regardless of its design, is to block the movement of the automatic transmission selector lever when the device is locked.
The location of the locking keyhole on the car console can be on the left, right or front. In some cases, the Mul-T-Lock may be located between the vehicle's front seats or on the instrument panel (near the steering column).
The locking mechanism is controlled using a key. The anti-theft device on the automatic transmission transfers forces between the cylinder and the locking mechanism located on a special bracket, changing direction.
There are four types of Mul-T-Lock:
- automatic transmission lock pin;
- automatic transmission lock, pinless;
- universal automatic transmission lock;
- Individual automatic transmission lock.
The design of the pin lock is very reliable and quite simple. The locking device is a pin made of durable steel, through which the automatic transmission lever is locked. The locking pin is fixed with a key. To unlock the mechanism, you need to remove the locking pin.
A pinless automatic transmission lock, in contrast to a pin lock, has a pinless type locking mechanism, which is built into the lock itself (installed in the automatic transmission design). The lock pin is never removed and is moved using a key. The main functions are the same as those of a pin lock - to ensure blocking of the automatic transmission lever.
Advantages of gearbox blockers
Advantages of mechanical gearbox locks:
- ease of installation and use;
- one key is used to open and close;
- On sale you can find both universal models and versions designed for use on specific car models;
- installation of a mechanical lock on the gearbox is carried out using breakaway screws on standard fastenings provided in the vehicle body;
- Regardless of the type of lock (universal or model), the control keys are protected from unauthorized duplication;
- mechanical locks on the gearbox are protected from opening with master keys, drilling, bumping and hacking;
- The operation of the blocking device does not depend on the condition of the battery and other vehicle functions.
High reliability is achieved thanks to an additional layer of protection. Its presence makes it possible to prevent the appearance of fragility in the structure of the product as a result of cooling with liquid nitrogen.
Hood lock
Such means against car theft are:
- Mechanical, which can only be opened with a special key. Such a lock consists of a lock cylinder, which is connected to the hood lock mechanism using a cable.
- Electromechanical. Such locks consist of a locking mechanism, wiring and an electric drive. Such blockers are controlled via a digital relay, alarm or immobilizer.
If we talk about the advantages and disadvantages, electromechanics are quite easy to install and operate. Among the shortcomings is the connection of the mechanism with the “signaling”. If a thief breaks into the alarm system, the hood lock will be disabled automatically.
The most popular are conventional mechanical locks, although they can also be opened with a regular master key if desired.
Security system
Any car has a security system. One is more modern, the other is outdated.
Conventionally, they can be classified:
- according to the principle of action;
- as intended.
Video: details
According to the operating principle
According to this classification, security systems are:
The most effective way to mechanically “protect” a car is a gearbox lock. It is easy to install, but at the same time reliably blocks the gearbox. As a rule, they install it in places where it is difficult to reach with any hacking device. But not all car owners are ready to buy such a lock for several reasons. One of them is its design features.
For example, SAAB cars have installed sensors that do not allow the gearbox to be blocked with just such a blocker. In addition, difficulties may arise when installing a lock on cars such as Ford Focus II, Lexus RX 300, Toyota Corolla and Avensis.
Some insurance companies, before signing a contract with the owner of the car, require the transmission to be carried out by mechanical means. Therefore, problems may arise in this area as well.
But the “qualification” of car thieves is constantly growing, and experts advise installing a steering wheel lock along with the gearbox lock.
The installed immobilizer does not allow the car engine to start. It is installed on the car key itself and blocks the engine from starting without interrupting the electrical network. That is, if a thief tries to start the car, all its main units will be de-energized. Stealing a car is simply impossible. But such a security system is by no means cheap!
There is an almost perfect security system. But, it consists not of one device, but of 3 in total.
This:
- immobilizer;
- Hood lock;
- alarm system.
Important! You shouldn’t be happy if, when you bought a car at a car dealership, you were given a security system as a gift. It needs to be replaced immediately. Unfortunately, such systems are easy to hack, since they have been “pumped” by hijackers for quite some time.
Electrical methods of locking the gearbox include a hood lock. The gearbox lock is activated using an electromechanical solenoid. The solenoid is activated through the electrical alarm network or through other available communication channels. That is, until the hood is opened, it is impossible to get to the gearbox lock.
Do you want to know how to check a car for theft? See about it here.
By purpose
Depending on what task the security system faces, they can be divided into:
- car alarms;
- blocking devices.
Car alarms include devices that have monitoring functions. They have special sensors that inform either the owner of the car or special authorities that the car has been broken into. If the car is still stolen, then such a system can track and indicate the location where the car is located.
The main task of locking devices is to limit thieves' access to important components and devices in the car.
The blocker can only be installed in a specialized center. This center must have a certificate to conduct such activities.
Pedal lock
Instead of blocking the automatic gearbox, the gas pedal is blocked. There are also combination locks that simultaneously lock the steering wheel and gas pedal.
Such locks work effectively even with a dead battery, as they are electromechanical. They can be used on any car, regardless of the make or model of the vehicle.
A lock on the door
A door lock is the most common passive way to protect a car. It is impossible to get into a locked car, but, having some experience, burglars still learned how to open such cars.
Manufacturers have come up with a new type of double door locking. Thanks to this blocking, a burglar will not be able to open the door, since both the external and internal drives are blocked. All doors close automatically. The driver no longer needs to go to each door and lock it individually.
But still this is not the most reliable option. There is also a lock on the pedal.
