“a helpful & lucid review site for all things budget” — the new yorker
Home » Travel » Radar Detectors » Radar Detector Mounts
Subscribe

Radar Detector Mounts

Cheapism
Mid-range
High end
$75
$125
$300
...+
In this review:
  1. Cheap Radar Detectors, Best Radar Detector
  2. Radar Detector Bands
  3. Radar Detector Range
  4. Radar Detector Mounts
  5. Radar Detectors Reviews
  6. Discount Radar Detectors Features Comparison Table
Sign up for our
Free Newsletter
Related Guides: Car Rentals, Car Seats, Cheap Tires, GPS, Garage Door Openers and Hybrid Cars

Radar Detectors Features (continued)

Radar Detector Mounts.

Although it may seem as though the mount included with a cheap radar detector isn't important, it's actually essential.
An improperly placed detector not only misses signals ahead, but may not pick up signals at all. For example, many radar detectors, including all the low-cost models we researched, come with windshield mounts that attach via suction cups; the Beltronics Vector 955 is also quick-release. Users posting reviews on Amazon caution that this radar detector mount style works fine in normal weather, but really hot or cold temperatures can affect the mount's performance. And another user also commenting on Amazon about the Whistler XTR-695SE says releasing the unit from its windshield perch is often quite challenging. If a more permanent arrangement appeals to you, BlendMount sells a base for about $80 that attaches to the rear-view mirror (check to see if your car's mirror is suitable) and works with Beltronics and Escort radar detectors.

Regardless how the device is mounted, take care to adjust the angle so that it points straight ahead. Experts at Radar Detector suggest that you mount it low, but not too low; the best position is aimed just above the windshield wipers and close enough to the driver so he or she can reach the device to adjust the modes or access the volume controls. An expert at Laser Veil notes that reflections on the Cobra XRS 9955's glossy screen make it difficult to see if not mounted properly.

 

Radar Detectors False Alarm Control.

There's nothing worse than driving along, possibly speeding (ee-gads!), and having your cheap radar detector start raising hell for no reason. Radar detectors often pick up signals, or bands, that other electronic devices, like garage-door openers or even other radar detectors, emit. False alarms were the bane of early models and often turned off potential buyers. But manufacturers are now tackling this issue head-on. As Auto Anything notes, today's radar detectors come equipped with smart software that minimizes the frequency of false alarms.

The cheap radar detectors on our list feature modes for city driving and highway driving. City mode dampens weaker signals consistent with frequent false alarms. The Cobra XRS 9955 boasts three different city modes for better filtration, as do the Beltronics Vector 955 and Whistler XTR-695SE; the Beltronics Vector 940 and Rocky Mountain Radar RMR-C435 have just one city mode each.

Review continues below

Highway mode, which is generally the default setting on the cheap radar detectors we researched, is best for open-road driving where fewer false alarms occur. It removes all filters and alerts the driver to any suspicious signals, and provides the maximum advanced warning for higher-speed driving. Always check the user's manual to know which filtering mode your radar detector is set for.

by Maralyn Edid (Google+ Profile)

Back to top »

Filed in: Autos, Cars, Radar Detectors

Best Cheap Radar Detectors

Beltronics Vector 955

 Read why »
Where to buy

Whistler XTR-695SE

 Read why »
Where to buy

Good Cheap Radar Detectors

Cobra XRS 9955

 Read why »
Where to buy

Cobra XRS 9945

 Read why »
Where to buy
 
 
Cheapism.com on Facebook
 

Don't Bother Cheap Radar Detectors

Rocky Mountain Radar RMR-C435

The RMR-C435 is affordable and features a lot of extras, like VG-2 and VG-3 Immunity that shield the detector from police devices designed to spot the detector, and a laser scrambler. Many users insist the detector doesn't work, that it has problems with the X, K, and KA bands and the jamming and scrambling features don't do their jobs. Read more »

 
Weekly Update: Cheap Hiking Boots Recommendations, Cut Baby Costs and More

April is National Car Care Month, so protect your investment and save money down the road. ...

Do You Have a Car Care Plan for National Car Care Month?

April is car care month. If you haven't adopted a car care plan or it needs a tuneup, follow our guidelines.

Cheapest New Cars of 2012

Are you looking for a cheap car? We've got some data showing the 10 cheapest new cars to own in 2012.