How Often Should I Armor my Car?
If you’re considering armoring your car for security and protection, you may wonder how often this process should be undertaken. Armoring a vehicle is an investment, and it’s essential to determine the most suitable timing for your specific needs. We’ll explore the factors that influence how often you should armor your car to make an informed decision.
Security Needs and Threat Level
The frequency of armoring your car largely depends on your security needs and the level of potential threats you face. If you regularly find yourself in high-risk environments or travel through dangerous regions, it may be necessary to armor your car sooner and with more robust protection. On the other hand, if your daily routine involves relatively safe locations, you might consider armoring your car less frequently.
Life Cycle of the Vehicle
Consider the life cycle of your vehicle when deciding how often to armor it. If you plan to keep your car for an extended period, it may be more practical to armor it at the beginning of its life cycle. This way, you can ensure maximum protection throughout the vehicle’s lifespan.
Technological Advancements
As technology advances, so does armor technology. New materials and methods may become available that offer improved protection or more lightweight solutions. Keeping yourself updated on the latest advancements in armoring can help you make informed decisions about when to upgrade your car’s protection.
Changing Security Needs
Your security needs may evolve over time. For instance, if you experience a change in your personal or professional circumstances that increases your security risks, it might be the right time to consider rearming your vehicle to meet the new challenges.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Proper maintenance and regular inspection of your armored vehicle are essential to ensure it offers optimal protection. Consider scheduling routine checks with professionals to assess the condition of the armor and make any necessary upgrades or repairs.
Conclusion
The frequency of armoring your car depends on several factors, including your security needs, the level of threats you face, the life cycle of your vehicle, technological advancements, and changing security requirements. It’s essential to assess your situation periodically and consult with armoring experts to make informed decisions about when to armor or rearm your vehicle. Ultimately, armoring your car provides a crucial layer of protection, granting you peace of mind and enhanced security during your travels.
New Models
Short answer: anytime you buy one.
Long answer:
The armor itself, once installed by a qualified professional, is designed to be a permanent part of the vehicle and doesn’t need to be “re-done” periodically.
However, there are certain aspects of maintenance and inspection that are crucial for the continued effectiveness and safety of your armored vehicle:
- Regular maintenance: As with any vehicle, following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is essential. This includes oil changes, filter replacements, brake checks, and other routine services.
- Focus on suspension and tires: Due to the increased weight of the armor, the suspension and tires experience additional stress. They may require:
- More frequent inspections: Checking for wear and tear, damage, or proper inflation pressure more often than with a non-armored vehicle.
- Potential for earlier replacements: Depending on usage and driving conditions, replacing these components sooner might be necessary compared to a standard car.
- Ballistic glass care: Bulletproof glass requires special cleaning and care to maintain its transparency and effectiveness. Consult the manufacturer or an armoring professional for specific instructions on cleaning products and techniques to avoid damaging the glass.
Specialized maintenance:
- Armor inspection: It is recommended to have a qualified armoring company periodically inspect the armoring components of your vehicle. The frequency of these inspections can vary depending on factors like:
- The level of protection offered by the armor (higher levels might require more frequent checks).
- The intended use of the vehicle (vehicles in high-risk environments might need more frequent inspections).
- Recommendations from the armoring company that installed the armor.
- Upkeep of additional features: Armored vehicles might have additional security features like run-flat tires or self-sealing fuel tanks. These features might require specific maintenance or replacement based on manufacturer recommendations or after use.
By following these guidelines and adhering to the recommendations of your armoring company, you can ensure your armored vehicle remains reliable, safe, and provides the intended level of protection throughout its lifetime.