With Car Theft On The Rise, Here's What You Can Do
In the US, vehicle theft has risen almost 30 percent from 2022 to 2023, a trend that's repeating in many parts all over the world. Luckily, there are simple strategies you can use to deter thieves and keep your car safe from theft. Here are 20 tips for ensuring your vehicle stays where you parked it.
1. Hide Your Valuables
Don't tempt thieves by leaving valuables visible in your car. Hide them, or better yet, take them with you when you leave.
2. Lock Your Car
Always remember to lock your car. Don't let it be easy for the thieves to get inside. From there, they can easily hotwire your vehicle and drive away.
3. Get A Wheel Lock
A steering wheel lock adds an extra layer or protection, making it harder for someone to steel your car. Often times, just the sight of one is enough to deter a thief.
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4. Get A Vehicle Immobilizer System
A vehicle immobilizer system is a device the prevents thieves from hotwiring your car but preventing your engine from starting unless the key is present. Immobilizers reduce the rate of car theft by 40 percent, according to studies.
5. Install An Alarm System
A lot of new cars come with alarm systems that are triggered by touch or motion. Make sure it's activated, or if you don't have one, get one installed. The flashing lights and loud sounds are usually enough to scare off a thief.
6. Park In A Secure Area
Stay alert when parking. Use your common sense and your knowledge of the area to determine if your car will be safe there. If you're leaving your car for a long time, try to find indoor parking when possible.
7. Get A GPS Tracker
Many vehicles come with GPS tracking systems that tell you where your car is in real time. This is helpful for if your car gets stolen as you can easily find it again so make sure it's enabled.
8. Get A Motion-Activated Light
If you park your car in front of your house, put some light on the subject. A motion-activated light is often enough to deter thieves and even if it's not, it might be enough to alert you or your neighbor if something fishy is going on.
9. Close The Windows
This one should come as obvious, but make sure you remember to close your car windows every time you leave your vehicle. It's the easiest thing to unlock your car and climb inside if the window is left open.
10. Park Inside
Whenever you have the option, park your car inside. Whether it's in a garage or indoor parking, it's much more secure.
11. Store Keys Safely
When you're at the gym, beach, or pool, make sure never to leave your keys unattended. Secure them in a locked locker.
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12. Never Leave Your Keys In Your Car
If you leave your keys in the car, you're just asking for it to be taken. Make sure to take them with you every time, even if you're quickly popping in somewhere.
13. Use Common Sense
If an area feels sketchy, it probably is. Don't risk it: for your peace of mind, it's worth it to keep driving until you find a place that feels more secure.
14. Use a Kill Switch
A kill switch is a device that stops your car from starting when the ignition is turned on. It makes the thief think your car's battery has no power and therefore won't turn on.
15. Consider Vehicle Etching
Vehicle etching entails getting your vehicle identification number engraved onto the windows of your car. This is a deterrent because it makes the vehicle very hard to resell.
16. Use Tire Lock
An alternative or addition to the steering wheel lock is the tire lock. It locks onto your tire and prevents it from moving, acting as a visual deterrent or, even if the thief manages to get inside your car, they won't be able to move it.
17. Install A Vehicle Tracking System
To effectively stop thieves in their tracks, use a tracking system. It alerts you every time your car moves without your permission and some can even connect to your phone.
18. Cover Your Car
Sometimes, the simplest things do the trick. If you have a nice-looking car you're afraid will draw too much attention, simply covering it up might be enough to keep it out of harm's way.
19. Never Leave Your Ignition On
Even if you're just leaving it for a minute, never leave your car running. A minute is all a thief needs to act.
20. Install Cameras
If you park in your driveway at night, you may want to consider installing security cameras. Let them be visible so that they act as a deterrent.
