In an age where our cars are more advanced than ever, so too are the methods used by car thieves. Today’s criminals are tech-savvy, using everything from signal jammers to relay attacks to outsmart security systems and steal vehicles in a flash.
But don’t worry – there are clever, practical steps you can take to stay one step ahead. From choosing the right parking spot to adding some good old-fashioned visual deterrents, these tips will help keep your car safe and secure, no matter how smart the criminals get. Read on to discover how to protect your car from modern-day thieves and drive with peace of mind:
1. Don’t Rely on Just Your Key Fob Locking up is a given, but double-check every time. Thieves can use signal jammers to keep cars unlocked, leaving your vehicle vulnerable. If you’re parking in a high-risk area, it’s worth checking each door – it might seem like a hassle, but it’s worth the peace of mind.
2. Protect Against ‘Relay Attacks’ Relay attacks are on the rise, with thieves amplifying your key’s signal from inside your home. Block them out by storing your keys in a metal box or signal-blocking pouch.
3. Pick the Right Parking Spot Opt for well-lit, CCTV-monitored spots or Park Mark-approved car parks. Thieves are more likely to avoid vehicles in open, visible spaces.
4. Leave No Temptation Behind Clear out belongings – even a coat or loose change on display can tempt a thief. If you have a parcel shelf, leave it open to show there’s nothing to steal.
5. Detach and Conceal Electronics Take your sat-nav and detachable stereo front with you, and wipe away suction marks that could hint at valuables.
6. Equip Your Car with Extra Security Consider adding a car alarm, immobiliser, or GPS tracker. Not only can these reduce insurance premiums, but they also make your car less attractive to thieves.
7. Old-School Deterrents Still Work Wheel locks, pedal locks, and etched windows are making a comeback. These visible deterrents often convince thieves to move on to an easier target.
8. Keep Keys Out of Sight Never leave your keys by the door – some thieves use wire hooks to fish them out through letterboxes! Store them out of sight, but avoid hiding them in bedrooms where a determined intruder could put your safety at risk.
9. Keep Documents at Home Don’t leave logbooks or personal documents in the car. These could make it easier for thieves to sell your car and increase your risk of identity fraud.
10. Wheel Locks for Your Alloys Locking wheel nuts are a low-cost way to protect your alloys from being snatched by opportunistic thieves.
11. Stay Secure in Traffic In traffic jams, keep windows up, doors locked, and valuables out of sight to deter anyone who might take advantage of a slow-moving car.
12. Never Leave Your Engine Running Avoid the temptation to leave your car running while it warms up – it’s an open invitation for a quick getaway theft.
13. Join a Neighbourhood Watch Joining a Neighbourhood Watch scheme adds a layer of community protection. Together, residents can keep an eye out for suspicious activity, keeping the area safer for everyone.
By staying one step ahead and following these tips, you’ll help to make your car a less appealing target for thieves looking for an easy win.
All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 28th November 2024. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.
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