Preventing Theft from Your Vehicle

We‘re all inclined to think that cars are much more sophisticated and feature-packed these days, which makes them more secure and therefore safe from being stolen. The problem is that thieves are also more sophisticated and have developed a range of techniques to overcome vehicle security.

Thieves also rely on drivers being careless and will target those vehicles that are easiest to steal. So, it’s up to you to keep your car secure.

In this guide, we provide 8 tips for car theft prevention, ensuring that you’re equipped to reduce the risk of car theft London.

How to Prevent Car Theft: 8 Tips

There are plenty of actions you can take for vehicle theft prevention. By following these tips, you can protect your car against a wide range of theft techniques.

1. Always Lock Your Car

Lock your car every time you leave it, even if you’re just stepping away for a moment. Many thieves are opportunists and will steal a car or its contents if it’s left unlocked. Making it a habit to lock your car can prevent theft.

It’s illegal to leave your engine idling while you’re not in the car. Leaving your car engine on and unattended can lead to a fine, but it also makes your car an easy target for thieves. Turn off your engine and lock your car whenever you leave it unattended.

Make sure to check that your car is locked before walking away. Look for visual or audible signs that the locking mechanism is engaged, such as the mirrors folding in or the indicators flashing. Thieves can use devices to block the locking signal, so it’s important to confirm that your car is securely locked.

Always lock your car, even when you’re sitting in stationary traffic or parked with you inside. Thieves can strike even in these situations, so keeping your doors locked adds an extra layer of security.

2. Secure Windows and Sunroof to Prevent ‘Fishing’

Fishing is a technique used by thieves to gain access to your car through partially open windows or sunroof. They use tools to reach inside and unlock the car from the inside or grab valuables. This method is quick and quiet, making it a popular choice among car thieves.

To prevent fishing, always ensure that your windows and sunroof are fully closed when you park your car. Double-check that there are no gaps that a thief could exploit. By keeping these entry points secure, you can significantly enhance the prevention of car theft.

3. Use Tamper-Resistant Screws on Number Plates

Stolen number plates can be used for illegal activities, including facilitating further vehicle thefts. By using tamper-resistant screws, you can make it more difficult for thieves to steal your plates. These special screws require a unique tool to remove, deterring potential criminals.

If your car is stolen, thieves may change the number plates to avoid detection. This can make it difficult for authorities to track and recover your vehicle. Investing in tamper-resistant screws is a simple and cost-effective measure that can help if your car is stolen.

4. Install Locking Wheel Nuts for Alloy Wheels

Alloy wheels are a popular target for thieves due to their high value and their difficulty to trace. Installing locking wheel nuts can make it much harder for thieves to steal your wheels. These nuts require a special key to be removed, adding an extra layer of security.

Keep the key for your locking wheel nuts in a safe place. Do not leave it in your car where thieves might find it. Instead, store it at home or in a secure location separate from your vehicle.

5. Hide or Remove Valuables from Sight

Opportunist thieves will likely break into a car if they see valuable possessions inside. This not only means that you lose those possessions but also that you have a broken window to deal with.

Always put clothes, bags and other possessions where they can’t be seen by thieves. This also includes removing a sat nav and any signs that it’s been there, plus a removable stereo or its front panel if applicable. Taking temptation away will decrease the chances of theft.

Consider using a car cover or window shades if you need to leave items in your car. These can obscure the view inside your vehicle, making it less attractive to thieves.

6. Park in Well-Lit, Busy Areas

The location where you park your car can significantly impact its safety. Thieves prefer to operate in dark, secluded areas where they are less likely to be seen. Choosing a well-lit, busy area can help prevent auto theft.

If you need to park in a public car park, choose one that’s covered by CCTV cameras, has security staff, is busy with people and other cars, and is properly illuminated. Thieves don’t like to be disturbed so they’ll tend to avoid these areas. You can also use a car park that’s approved by Park Mark for safe parking.

When parking, consider spots that make it difficult for thieves to tow your car. Choosing parking areas that have a height restriction to prevent tow trucks from getting in. You can also position your vehicle between others to further deter potential theft.

7. Protect Your Keys

Thieves sometimes overcome the extra security of modern cars by simply stealing the keys. Always keep your keys safe so they can’t be seen by thieves and aren’t near the front door. Keys have been stolen by a pole being pushed through the letterbox to hook and retrieve them.

Cars with keyless entry are prone to relay theft where a device is used to intercept and capture the key signal so it can be used to open and start the car. You can prevent this from happening by keeping the keys well away from the car when not in use and protecting them within a box or pouch, known as a Faraday Bag, that blocks the signal.

8. Equip Your Car with an Alarm, Immobiliser, or Tracking Device

Modern security technology provides effective auto theft prevention. While these anti-theft devices have an additional expense, they offer an added layer of protection that can make a significant difference in preventing car theft. It’s essential to have any security device professionally installed by an auto locksmith to ensure it functions correctly and provides maximum security.

To make your security more effective, you can add:

• Car Alarm: Many modern cars come with built-in alarms, but you can also have one installed aftermarket. Thatcham-approved car alarms are recognised for their reliability and effectiveness in preventing theft. The loud noise can scare off thieves and alert nearby people to the attempted theft.

• Vehicle Tracking Device: A vehicle tracking device will give you more chance of recovering your car if it’s stolen. These devices provide real-time location data, allowing the police to track and retrieve your vehicle quickly. Installing a tracking device can give you peace of mind knowing you have a backup plan if theft occurs.

• Ghost II Immobiliser: Protect your car against hijacking with the Ghost II Immobiliser. This undetectable security device prevents the engine from starting without the correct PIN code. The added benefit is that by installing any immobiliser, you can potentially reduce your monthly insurance premiums.

FAQs

What is the best protection against car theft?

The best protection combines multiple strategies: always lock your car, park in safe areas, and use modern security devices, like the Ghost II Immobiliser. A combination of physical and technological measures offers the highest level of security.

Do steering wheel locks really prevent theft?

Steering wheel locks act as a visual deterrent and can slow down thieves. While not foolproof, they make it more difficult for thieves to steal your car quickly.

Do anti-theft devices for cars work?

Yes, anti-theft devices such as alarms, immobilisers, and tracking systems are effective. They can deter thieves, make it harder to steal the car, and help recover it if stolen.