While the number of auto thefts is generally decreasing in the United States, it never hurts to take a few extra precautions. The same cars tend to top the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s Hot Wheels list of the most stolen cars year after year, and once again, this year sees many of the same. Below are several suggestions offered by the NICB for preventing car theft. Keep your investment safe with some of these helpful tips.
Lock your car and take your keys
One of the best tips for preventing car theft is by taking your keys with you at all times. While this may seem like common sense, many thefts occur because owners make it easy for thieves. Next time you are just running inside the store for a few seconds, take your keys. Getting gas? Take your keys out of the ignition, put them in your pocket and close your door. If you are used to carrying your keys in your purse or bag, make sure it is zipped up at all times, and do not leave it sitting around unsupervised.
Avoid Leaving Valuables in the Car
While this one may seem like a no brainer, all too often people leave valuable sitting out in plain sight making it tempting for thieves. And even though someone breaking into your car doesn’t necessarily mean they are going to steal it too, why take the chance. To avoid this, keep the inside of your car clean, and hide anything that may possibly tempt someone to break in. This includes things like purses, backpacks, shopping bags, sunglasses, loose change, and more.
Use Care When Parking
Where you park your vehicle plays a big role in preventing auto theft as well as your own personal safety. Parking in a well-lit area will help deter criminals, but parking close to building entrances and near parking lot security cameras adds extra layers of protection. Parking garages are often considered safe places for parking your car so it won’t get damaged, but avoid parking in an isolated garage. In addition, if you do use a parking garage, try to park as close to the attendant or a security camera as possible.
Use a Warning Device
Having and using a visible or audible warning device such as an alarm system is another item that can ensure that your car remains where you left it. Luckily many cars today come with an alarm, but if you have an older model, it’s definitely worth considering investing in one.
Immobilizing Device
If your vehicle can’t be started, it can’t be stolen. Many devices which prevent unoccupied cars from being stolen are available on the market today. Devices such as “Kill” switches, fuel cut-offs and smart keys are among the most effective when it comes to preventing car theft. Even locking bars that go across the steering wheel can prevent a thief from being able to take your car.
Take Advantage of Today’s Technology
If the worse does happen, make it easier to find your stolen car with the use of a tech-based auto recovery tool. Today there are many such tools available, some of which come standard on cars. For example, many vehicles now come with OnStar which uses GPS technology to locate your car and transmit that information to law enforcement. In addition, some versions of OnStar can also remotely lock the car’s ignition and even work in tandem with police by sending a signal to the car that makes it slow down safely.
In Conclusion
Even if car theft or vandalism is not a huge problem in your area, it never hurts to be prepared. In addition, many insurance companies offer a discount if you use certain theft prevention products.