Andy Shane
Let me guess: you’ve got a brand-new Alarm System for Jeep, and aren’t really sure you’ll be able to install it properly? Don’t worry: if you follow my instructions carefully and do everything right, you’ll be done with the installation in no time! That way, you won’t have to spend time, energy, and, most importantly, big bucks on hiring someone else to do that. This is a rather straightforward process, especially if you know your way around cars.
So, if you’re serious about protecting your vehicle and being able to sleep better at night, let’s get right to my guide! We’ll start by planning everything, installing the alarm unit, and finish up with wiring the connections and giving the new system a try. Here goes nothing!
What you’ll need for the Job
- A (handheld) drill
- Some electric tape
- Protective gloves
- A multimeter
- Cutters and strippers for the wires
- Some zip ties (optional)
Step #1: Planning It Ahead
Before you dive into this headfirst, I strongly recommend giving yourself a minute to think everything through. The most important thing to do at this stage is to find your Jeep’s manuals. If you’ve got them on paper, that’s great news. If not, look for them online. Remember: they need to be the exact right documents for your Jeep’s make, model, and year. That’s because different vehicles have different wiring colors and polarities.
Without the wiring diagrams, you won’t be able to install any anti-theft/alarm systems. So, check the manual and memorize which panels will have to be removed for access to the wires. For some folks, the wiring layout looks like rocket science, but there’s actually nothing hard about it. Just make sure you have the right tools for this.
Step #2: Getting Right to It – the Panels
Alright, so, go ahead and remove all the panels covering the wires. When you do this it will free up some space where you can put the alarm. These panels will probably be on the dashboard or the driver’s side. Can’t seem to find them? They might be right below the steering wheel, or maybe closer to the bottom of the dash. Again, go back to your Jeep’s user manual to know exactly where to look for the wires.
As I just said, most drivers prefer to mount the alarm inside of the panels, hiding it from plain sight. Under the seat can also be a good spot. The rule of thumb here is to make sure the device can’t be seen by the hijackers – they will remove it if they see it. Alarm systems come packed with mounts and nuts/bolts; so, the installation shouldn’t be a problem. Read also here about Car Vibrations When Idle.
Step #3: Drilling a Hole
That’s right: you’ll need to use a proper drill to make room for the wires. Don’t worry: it won’t ruin your Jeep. But careful not to damage any wires with the drill, though. Everything’s looking good? Ok, put the wire through that hole, connecting the alarm device to the siren. I strongly recommend using silicone or rubber to protect the wire from damage and shorts.
Wait, what about the siren: where should you put it, exactly? This one’s up to you. The firewall and the engine compartment are the most popular spots for it. As long as there’s enough room for it to function and it’s facing down (so that water doesn’t get in there), you’ll be golden.
Step #4: Wiring – the Final Stage
We’re almost done with the Alarm Installation! All that’s left to do is take care of some more wires. First, run the valet switch. That will give you remote control over the alarm system when it’s activated. Yes, you’ll be able to turn it off from a distance. The LED light comes next. As you might‘ve guessed, it lights up when the alarm is activated.
It’s pretty tiny and “sits” on the dashboard – I usually glue it. Just drill a tiny hole in the dashboard and run the wire to the alarm device. If you received an antenna with the package, mount it on the glass. If not, move on to the next step, which is the siren. It comes with two wires: negative (-) and positive (+). The positive wire should be connected to the alarm unit; the negative one is for grounding.
And don’t forget about the sensors! They’ll send you a signal when the thieves try to steal your vehicle. Find the sensor wires on your alarm device and connect them to the dome light sensors on the doors. Last, but not least, take care of the power wire – it needs to connect to the battery. This way, even when the engine is off, the alarm system will stay vigilant. Put the panels back where they belong, and enjoy!
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