Harmon Kardon question

[afromanbob]

I'm planning on getting the Harmon Kardon stereo for my Cooper, however I might not if their is a chance of it getting stolen. At my high school last year five cars were broken into and had their stereos stolen. However, I think all of these cars had nice "head units" (is that what their called? the user interface, the buttons, the receiver...) and big subs in the back. So my question is, is how liable is my car to theft with this system installed?

[joebickley]

the HK upgrade really isnt that visual. Infact if ur worried about it getting nicked its probably better having that than an after market unit.

Although it costs way to much!! Buy a subtle looking Head Unit aftermark and make sure u take the face plate off. Save your self £200-300 easy

[joebickley]

PS check out the Interior and ICE section for the 30 or so topics on "is the HK stuff good or not" and alternatives.

[4wheeldrift]

The standard stereo in a MINI is very good. That being said, I am very happy that I selected the HK. The selectable sound space profiles, tighter bass and driver focus feature all appeal to me.

[jennis]

My HK head unit is the same as any mini head unit. It doesn't look any different, the only difference is the look of the speakers. I think the HK is a good choice.

[rgsmini]

I think the HK unit was money well spent! I'm completely happy with the system. As far as getting stolen, you'll find that thiefs don't usually mess with factory systems. They are looking for ones like joebickley mentioned, anything that is aftermarket is a clue that you've likely got a sub in the back etc.

[mikeythemini]

http://www.mini2.com/forum/general-discussion/64342-i-want-revenge.html

[AmRov]

The look of the H/K headunit is not very impressive -- meaning, it should not attract much attention from thieves, unlike a flashier after-market unit. But if you're REALLY worried, follow the advice about getting a unit where you can remove the face plate...

Also, why not consider getting an alarm system installed? You will save on your insurance, and it should help deter thieves.

[afromanbob]

Maybe I will get an alarm. Becuase the last thing I want is my MINI to get broken into.

[JoeDentist]

Here in the Colonies, stereo equipment is only covered by your auro insurance if it is "factory or dealer installed as an option and in the same location as originally installed." So any unit like the HK is automatically covered for theft. If you buy an "Aftermarket" unit, it is NOT covered unless you buy a "rider" and pay an extra premium based on its declared value. Of course your insurance company then realizes that your customization has made your car special and thus more likely to be stolen, vandalized, or broken into.

Getting your radio stolen is not as horrible as getting your uninsured radio stolen!

[miniseb]

hi. I have recently purchased a HK enabler and I am a bit puzzled on how to fit it. Going into the back of my standard stereo there is a small white connecter block with the 3 white wires coming from the Harmon Kardon amp in my boot. Without this connecter block connected to anything there is no sound and there is no where on the HK enabler to plug it into. if I am going wrong here can you please tell me where and if there's a solution can you please help me out. many thanks