Waking up to find your car has been stolen from your drive or garage is a logistical nightmare, not to mention the inconvenience caused by not having a vehicle at your disposal. However, there are many ways in which you can deter car thieves from choosing to steal your vehicle. Read on for some tips.
Prevention is better than cure
Install an anti-theft device – any anti-theft device at all – and car thieves will be less likely to attempt to steal your vehicle, moving on to the next instead. Car trackers with a deterrent sticker, steering locks and visible alarm systems are all proven ways of deterring car thieves.
All good things hidden
Keep all valuables under wraps. A trailing phone charging lead may prompt a car thief to break in to check for a phone, and a sat nav holder may be a clue as to what’s lurking in your glove box (and don’t forget to wipe away the tell-tale circular mark from your windscreen when you remove the holder). Leaving spare change visible in your car is another green light to car thieves, as is any obvious sign that you carry tools or equipment.
Don’t be complacent
You may think that your vehicle isn’t attractive to car thieves due to its low value, but car thieves are attracted to different vehicles for different reasons. A cheap vehicle may be targeted by joyriders, a dark vehicle identified as a getaway vehicle (regardless of make or model), while a white van may be targeted for the purpose of moving stolen goods. The key is to secure your vehicle appropriately, regardless of its make, model, colour or value.
The key to success
Finally, and most importantly, don’t forget to lock your car. Such a simple move, but one that is often overlooked, particularly when you are in a hurry or when you have your hands full with shopping bags or tools and equipment.
