.

 

I installed viper for 2 years, and only saw a couple come back due to faulty units (one was mine). All the rest was dumbass mistakes made by dumbass installers. Using crimpcaps instead of soldering, not insulating wires good enough, not using grommets when passing wires thru the firewall (they ground out when the insulation rubs off), pinching wires under screws or trim panels, wiring relays wrong, or tapping into the wrong circuits. You'll get that with any brand though

From my experience, I would stay away from valet if you are looking for an advanced alarm. That branch specializes in keyless entry and remote starts. They do have some basic alarms, but don't offer many features. I really couldn't tell you about the others, but I think viper and hornet are very similar, and I have heard to stay away from clifford for reliability issues. Dunno if its true though...

 

Every single alarm system is the SAME, whether it be DEI or Autopage, which is what I have and am happy with it. I think the new of the DEIs is the Python series, so that's what I would have gotten if I didn't get the autopage. It's all about how clean the install is.

 

.

 

Not completely true, but the install is a huge factor. Alot of the cheaper alarms use cheaper components both inside and out. Different technologies for proximity and shock sensors, better and different range for antennas and transmitters, better quality wiring and wiring better suited for automotive use. Internally the better brands use good quality capacitors, diodes, and resistors.

Also, many different companies use very similar components. For example, audiovox alarms and DEI alarms use many similar parts. They are built on the same assembly line and about 90% of the parts and internal components are completely interchangable.

Just my .00002