Review: This £30 gadget could be your best defence against car thieves
£30 gadget could be your best defence against car thieves

Keyless car technology has revolutionised convenience for drivers, but it's also triggered an alarming surge in vehicle thefts across the UK. As criminals become more sophisticated, car owners are seeking innovative solutions to protect their valuable assets without breaking the bank.

A Simple Solution to a Growing Problem

Enter the Technaxx TX-100 plug-in alarm, a compact device that promises substantial security benefits for a remarkably low price. Currently available for £29.99 with a special 25% discount, this gadget could be the affordable peace of mind that vehicle owners have been searching for.

Unlike traditional steering locks that provide visible deterrence, the Technaxx TX-100 operates as a motion-activated sentinel. It features a PIR motion sensor that triggers an ear-piercing 110dB alarm when it detects movement inside your vehicle. The sound is deliberately designed to be unbearable, likely sending any potential thief scrambling for escape.

Clever Design and Multiple Applications

What makes this device particularly ingenious is its dual functionality. It plugs directly into your vehicle's cigarette lighter socket, drawing power while simultaneously charging its internal rechargeable battery. Even more cleverly, it includes two USB outputs, meaning it appears and functions as a standard in-car charger to avoid drawing attention.

The setup couldn't be simpler - just plug it in, switch it on, and your vehicle is protected. When you return, a quick press of the key fob remote deactivates the system, preventing any embarrassing false alarms.

During testing, the device proved incredibly effective across multiple scenarios. Gareth Butterfield, who published his findings on 19th November 2025, tested it in cars, motorhomes, and boats with impressive results. "We often leave our boat for short periods with the canopy open," he noted, "and this keeps a watchful eye for us."

Beyond Vehicles: Unexpected Uses

The applications extend beyond traditional vehicles. Convertible owners can now feel more secure leaving their cars with the roof down during quick shopping trips. Camping enthusiasts can use it to protect their tents and equipment during peak season. Simply zip your tent, activate the device, and rest assured that any unwanted visitors will trigger an alarm that alerts the entire campsite.

While the device isn't perfect - the remote button can be accidentally pressed too easily, and a determined thief might locate and discard the unit - these are minor concerns compared to the substantial security benefits it provides for the price.

As Butterfield concluded in his review, "For the sake of £30 it's just so simple and effective, and a small price to pay for peace of mind. I like it so much, I think I'm going to buy a second one while the 25% discount lasts."

With vehicle thefts continuing to plague UK drivers, this budget-friendly security solution arrives at a perfect time, offering substantial protection without the complexity or expense of traditional security systems.