Tips For Preventing Auto Theft

Do you love your car? So much so that you can't stomach the thought of having it stolen? Then pay attention to these tips for preventing your car from being stolen:

Parking

Park in well lighted areas, closer to where people will be. Some people with expensive cars park far away from the other cars in a parking lot to lessen chances of damage from car doors opening or shopping carts. This isn't smart since a thief will have an easier time if the car is in an area where there are less people likely to be around.

Alarms

There are lots of options in car alarm systems these days. Many systems emit a loud noise alerting people around the car that the car may be in the process of being stolen. There's also alarms with special sensors that sense when windows are broken, there is any motion inside the car or anything on the outside of the car is being tampered with. Some alarms will disable the engine if they are set off. It's a good idea to check out all your options in this area.

Locks

Locks can also be effective against thieves. They comes in a wide variety of types, including hood locks that stop a thief from gaining access to disable the alarm system, gearshift locks, floorboard locks, tire locks and wheel locks. There's also kill switches which will disable the ignition or fuel system.

No Brainers

Don't leave the keys in the ignition or in the car at all! You'd be surprised how many vehicles are stolen just for this reason. Also, don't forget to lock your car. Some people get into the habit of not locking their cars, they may think their neighborhood is safe or maybe they are in a hurry.
Make it a subconscious thing that you always lock your car and take your keys with you.


Naturally, an unlocked car is easy to steal. Yes, you shouldn't have to say it, but some people simply don't lock it up or take the keys! Another no brainer is to make sure your windows are closed all the way. If you leave just one window open, this is an invitation to steal. Don't leave your window open even just a few inches. A thief can wiggle their arm in easily and unlock the door. Yet another no brainer that happens far too often is leaving valuables inside the car in plain view. Anything valuable should be either taken with you or hidden beneath the seat, put in the trunk or hidden beneath something.

By Lydia Quinn