switching the license plate. License plate numbers allow police to identify a stolen vehicle quickly, so thieves often replace them with plates from another car or use fake numbers. Fortunately, you can easily find security screws to secure your plates and prevent this.
Using security screws is a simple yet effective way to deter theft. While they aren’t impossible to remove, they do require extra effort and time both of which a criminal likely can’t afford when attempting a quick getaway.
This straightforward measure puts you in control of your vehicle’s security, making you feel empowered and confident.
Inspect Your Car for GPS Trackers to Deter Thieves.
GPS technology might seem the perfect tool to prevent vehicle theft, but thieves can also exploit it. It’s common for a thief to place a GPS tracker under a car before stealing it.
This allows them to monitor your routine and identify when you’re away from home, making your property more vulnerable to theft.
A less experienced car thief probably won’t go to these lengths, but if your car is of higher value, it’s wise to check underneath regularly to ensure nothing suspicious is attached.
Thieves Tend to Avoid Covered Cars.
Contrary to what you might think, a covered car isn’t necessarily a tempting target for thieves. While it may seem like a cover suggests something valuable underneath, the reality is different. Thieves typically steer clear of covered cars because removing the cover adds an extra step to the theft, making the process more time-consuming and risky
It also makes it more difficult for thieves to see if there’s anything valuable inside, as they would need to remove the entire cover before looking inside the car.
Replace Your Steering Wheel with a Removable One.
Removable steering wheels are not just a popular choice in the racing community, but also a practical one for everyday car owners.
Even if a thief manages to break into your vehicle, they won’t be able to drive it without a steering wheel.
While you might sacrifice some conveniences, like built-in controls, opting for a removable steering wheel can significantly increase your car’s security, giving you peace of mind about your vehicle’s safety.
You’ll need to take the steering wheel with you when you head to work or run errands, but fortunately, removable steering wheels are lightweight and easy to carry.
Use a Signal-Blocking Pouch to Protect Your Car Keys.
Few people realize that a standard car theft method involves using your car keys against you. Thieves employ a device to capture your key’s signal, especially if your car needs the key inside to start.
This device then replicates the signal inside your vehicle, bypassing its security system. To prevent this, consider using a signal-blocking pouch or turning off your keys if they have that capability.
However, many keys need this feature. You can still safeguard your key’s signal by placing it in a Faraday bag, which blocks the signal and prevents other devices from capturing it.
Use a Baby Monitor to Keep an Eye on Your Car.
This simple trick is both affordable and surprisingly effective. A baby monitor can be a great alternative to a costly camera system, as it functions similarly by activating when it detects movement or sound.
If someone attempts to break into your car, you’ll be instantly alerted, and if they manage to escape, you’ll have their face captured on video. This measure provides a sense of security and protection, making you feel more at ease about your car’s safety.
Most baby monitors are quite compact, making it easy to find a discreet spot to hide them. This ensures a thief won’t notice them immediately upon breaking into the vehicle.
Install a Separate Switch for Your Fuel Pump.
Modern cars typically use electric fuel pumps, which activate when you start the vehicle and send fuel to the engine to get it running.
This setup makes it relatively easy to install a separate switch that bypasses the vehicle’s ignition. It’s advisable to hide this switch somewhere near the driver’s seat to enhance security.
This way, even if a thief gets hold of your keys or turns the ignition, the engine won’t receive any fuel, preventing them from starting the car.
Remove Suction Cup Holders That Suggest Valuables Inside.
While you may already hide your valuables after parking, removing any suction cup holders for phones or other devices is essential.
These holders signal potential thieves that valuable electronics could be helpful and hidden inside the car, like in the center console or under a seat.
It doesn’t matter if you have any valuable electronics inside; what matters is preventing potential theft by removing any temptation for a thief in the first place.
Turn Your Wheels Toward the Curb to Hinder Getaways.
This simple, cost-free tip can make a difference. After parking, turn your wheels toward the curb or the car next to you. This maneuver makes it slightly more difficult for thieves to make a quick getaway, as the wheels will be locked when they start the car and must be turned in the opposite direction before driving off.
If the thief is in a hurry or feeling panicked, they are more likely to struggle with repositioning the car, delaying their escape.
Use a Steering Wheel Lock to Deter Thieves.
A steering wheel lock is a straightforward and practical investment in preventing theft. While no lock is entirely foolproof, a steering wheel lock is prominent and signals to thieves that stealing this car
will be more challenging than one without such a device. Most criminals prefer an easy target so that a steering wheel lock can be a strong deterrent.
Once thieves realize they’ll need to exert extra effort to remove the lock, they are likely to be discouraged and move on to an easier target.
Look Out for Coins to Prevent Theft Attempts.
Thieves sometimes steal cars by using a sneaky trick involving coins. They wedge a coin between the door handle and the lock, often on the passenger side. When you lock the door upon leaving, the lock engages with a sound, but it doesn’t lock. This lets the thief open the door later by simply pulling the handle.
That’s why inspecting your passenger side door when returning to your car is essential. If you notice a coin lodged in the door handle, it’s a clear sign that someone might be planning to steal your vehicle.
Pair Your Alarm with a Pager.
When was the last time you heard a car alarm and thought, “Someone’s stealing a car; I should call the police”? More likely, you thought, “I wish someone would turn off that alarm.” We’re so accustomed to car alarms sounding for non-theft reasons that they often don’t prompt immediate action.
That’s why it’s a good idea to connect your car alarm to a pager system. This will ensure you’re immediately notified whenever it goes off, regardless of your proximity to the car.
Alarm System Stickers Can Deter Car Theft.
One of the simplest ways to discourage someone from attempting to steal your vehicle is to make it look more difficult to break into.
That’s the strategy behind this tip. You don’t necessarily need to invest in an expensive security system to benefit. Sometimes, displaying a security system sticker on your car or a blinking light inside can deter potential thieves.
Of course, no security system is entirely foolproof, and there are always ways to bypass them, but they still serve as a strong deterrent for most criminals.
Create “Carbage” (Car + Garbage) to Discourage Thieves from Targeting Your Trunk.
If you must leave a bag inside your car, always hide it. Thieves will typically scan the interior of a car before breaking in to check for any extra locks or security measures.
If they spot a bag, whether a purse or a backpack, it gives them another reason to take the risk, assuming there might be something valuable inside.
This goes for any bag, and it usually only takes a couple of seconds to hide or throw in the trunk before you walk into a store.
Install a Kill Switch to Disable Your Car’s Ignition.
Like adding an extra switch for your fuel pump, a kill switch prevents your car from starting until it’s toggled. However, installing a kill switch is a bit more complex, so having a professional handle the installation is best.
Make sure to hide it in a hard-to-spot location. Essentially, it stops the engine from receiving power, adding an extra layer of security.
Some people go a step further by installing multiple kill switches, so even if a thief finds one, they’ll still need to locate the others.
Park in Well-Lit Areas to Discourage Thieves.
While it may seem obvious, parking in well-lit and open areas significantly enhances your vehicle’s security. Whether during the day or at night, choose visible spots. Thieves are far less likely to target your car or its contents if they believe there’s a greater risk of being spotted by someone or captured on camera.
Many criminals won’t even consider targeting vehicles parked in well-lit areas, as they prefer easier targets with less risk of being caught.
Use Locking Nuts to Secure Your Rims.
Thieves only sometimes aim to steal your entire car. Given that a vehicle is large and more accessible for police to track, they often target valuable items like rims, which are both pricey and quick to remove.
This risk applies to both aftermarket and stock rims. If you doubt the value, check the cost of a new set of rims for your vehicle.
A simple way to prevent rim theft is to replace one lug nut on each wheel with a locking nut that requires a unique key for removal.
Tint Your Windows to Reduce Visibility.
Thieves often look inside a vehicle before deciding whether to steal it or its contents. If they spot something valuable, they might decide it’s worth the risk of breaking in. A simple way to deter this is to apply a dark tint to your windows, making it harder for them to see inside.
Tinting your windows reduces visibility, making it difficult for thieves to see inside. However, some states have regulations on how dark window tints can be, so it’s wise to check local laws before proceeding.
Label Your Tools Stored in the Car to Discourage Theft.
If you own or drive a truck or van, you might be a prime target for thieves—not for the vehicle itself, but for the valuable tools and equipment they assume are inside.
In addition to other security measures, consider marking your tools and equipment with your name, phone number, or address. This makes them more difficult for a thief to sell.
If a thief does manage to sell your marked tools, there’s a chance they’ll be traced back to you, providing the police with a lead to track down the culprit.
Inspect Your Tires for Bottles Used as Theft Signals.
Some thieves use a clever trick to signal when a car owner has returned. They place a plastic bottle between the tire and the wheel well.
As the owner drives away, the bottle gets crushed, creating a loud noise that usually causes the driver to stop and investigate. At that moment, the thief can jump out and ambush the driver.
Thieves rely on drivers leaving their keys in the car while investigating the noise. So, checking your tires for bottles when returning to your vehicle is a good practice.
Avoid Reverse Parking to Prevent Quick Getaways.
While some people prefer reverse parking for a more leisurely departure, this also makes it simpler for thieves to escape once they start the vehicle quickly. Instead, park normally. Even if it takes a thief only a few extra seconds to back out, every second counts in such situations.
The goal is to make it more difficult for someone to steal your car, and reverse parking makes it easier for thieves to make a quick getaway.
Remove Your Stereo System Faceplate to Deter Thieves.
Although this tip is becoming less relevant as more cars come with high-quality stock radios that are harder to replace, it still applies if you have an aftermarket stereo system.
Consider removing the faceplate whenever you leave your car unattended. Stereo systems are a popular target for thieves because they are quick and easy to steal.
If a thief looks inside your car and sees no faceplate, they’re unlikely to bother breaking in and searching for it.
Motion Sensor Lights Help Prevent Theft.
Motion sensor lights are a straightforward and effective way to deter crime. These lights activate whenever they detect movement, which might not always be a person.
However, if a thief approaches late at night and the lights suddenly turn on, they’re likely to avoid the car, regardless of whether they think the owner is awake
However, installing them correctly is essential; if they’re positioned too low, a thief could easily approach and unscrew the bulb, rendering the lights ineffective.
Avoid Leaving Ownership Documents in Your Car.
Depending on your state’s laws, this may only be feasible for some, but it’s generally wise to avoid leaving car ownership documents in your vehicle. Items like insurance cards, registration, and especially bills of sale are better kept at home, in your wallet, or on your phone.
This way, if thieves steal your car, they won’t be able to claim ownership or forge signatures on necessary paperwork.
This is particularly crucial for your bill of sale, which never needs to be kept in the car and could easily be used by a thief to claim vehicle ownership falsely.
Change Parking Spots Frequently to Avoid Being an Easy Target.
Suppose you’ve repeatedly noticed the same car parked in the same spot; you know how predictable parking habits can be. Consistently parking in the same place every day can make you an easier target for theft, as it allows someone to plan around your routine, making it more straightforward for them to steal your car.
Occasionally, changing your parking spot is a good idea, especially if you’re parking on a city street or leaving your car in the same place overnight.
Keyholes Make Cars More Vulnerable to Theft.
Car thieves often use a simple trick to break into vehicles, requiring only a piece of string and a few minutes. This method targets the keyhole on your car door without revealing the details. This vulnerability is one reason newer car models without keyholes are generally more secure.
Having no keyhole prevents thieves from employing this method, making your car more secure and less likely to be stolen.
Tire Locks Help Prevent Car Theft.
While not the most convenient option, tire locks are highly effective in deterring car thieves. Although using a tire lock requires some effort, as they can be cumbersome to install and remove, they are a great deterrent, especially if you plan to leave your car parked for an extended period.
While valuable, it simply requires too much effort for a thief to steal a car. In such cases, a tire lock adds an extra layer of security worth considering.
Avoid Keeping IDs in Your Vehicle.
There are several reasons not to store identification documents in your car:
It reduces the risk of losing these critical papers if your vehicle is broken into.
It helps protect against identity theft, the last thing you want to deal with on top of losing money or valuables.
It makes your vehicle less of a target for thieves.
If a thief sees an ID or passport in your car, they might assume you have other valuables or are about to go on a trip, making both your vehicle and home more attractive targets.
Avoid Keeping Spare Keys in Your Car.
You might have seen movies where a thief breaks into a car and conveniently finds a hidden spare key. While this may seem far-fetched, it happens more often than you’d think.
Many people keep their spare keys in their cars, whether in the glove compartment or center console. This is generally a bad idea, as it makes a thief’s job much more manageable.
Instead, it’s better to store your spare key safely at home if someone ever breaks in and attempts to steal your car.
Avoid Leaving Valuable Items on Top of Your Vehicle.
While it may seem obvious, it’s surprising how often people leave valuable items on the roof of their vehicles. Even if these items are locked, they become easy targets for someone with a pair of bolt cutters. Remove any belongings from your roof and securely store them after you return home.
Toolboxes on the back of trucks are another prime target for thieves. While removing them every time you get home may not be practical, adding extra locks can make them more challenging to steal.
Store Valuables in Your Trunk for Added Security.
If you must keep valuables in your car, the trunk is often the safest place. Trunks are relatively easy to access, and thieves rarely check them. When breaking into a car, thieves are usually in a hurry unless they’re confident you won’t return soon.
Anyone breaking into a car will be so busy trying to rummage through the center console and under the seats that they won’t have time to check the trunk.
Choose Paid Parking for Enhanced Security.
While no one enjoys paying for parking, it’s often one of the most effective ways to prevent a break-in. If the fee is minimal and the lot has an attendant or security presence,
it’s usually worth the cost to deter thieves from targeting your car or its contents. If you opt for a parking area without security, try to park near the entrance gate.
Parking near the entrance is ideal because it has the most foot traffic, increasing the likelihood of witnesses if someone attempts a break-in.
Ensure Your Windows Are Fully Closed.
It may seem obvious, but even the smallest gap in your window can be exploited by a thief. If you’ve ever had to retrieve keys locked inside your car by reaching through a slightly open window, you know it’s possible. For an experienced thief, breaking in through a cracked window might only take a moment.
With enough practice, a thief can be nearly as quick as a professional at exploiting a cracked window. That’s why it’s always wise to double-check that your windows are rolled up completely.
Be Aware if Your Car Is on a Thief’s Target List.
Knowing whether criminals frequently target your car is crucial for deciding on the best protection measures. Numerous resources track the make and model of stolen cars annually. Sometimes, a vehicle may become a popular target because of a specific defect that makes it easier to steal.
The more information you have, the better you can protect your vehicle and valuables from theft. Insurance companies often provide data on which cars are most frequently stolen and the reasons behind it.
Permanently Fully Close the Sunroof.
While sunroofs are pretty secure when fully closed, even a tiny opening can attract thieves. A thief might use a partially open sunroof to unlock your car door and gain entry through car windows. Sunroofs are often left slightly open more frequently than windows, as people try to avoid returning to a hot car.
Still, you should avoid cracking your sunroof and forgetting to close it after parking. Leaving it open is a sure way to find something missing.
Never Leave Your Car Running.
While it may seem obvious, people frequently leave their car running with the keys in the ignition while quickly running into a store. This creates an ideal opportunity for a thief, providing them with everything they need to steal your car effortlessly. Essentially, you’ve made their job incredibly easy. And that’s not all.
Even if you intend to run in and out quickly, you can only predict how long you’ll be inside if you encounter a long line or a checkout issue.
Avoid Leaving Money Visible Inside Your Car.
It may seem obvious, but keep money visible in your car. Despite this being common sense, it still happens frequently. Even a few dollars or some loose change can signal to a thief that the owner might be careless or have more valuables hidden inside.
Keeping some emergency cash in your car is okay, but storing it securely in a locked glove compartment or center console.
Hire a Professional to Install Your Security System.
While many shops offer car security system installations, choosing carefully is essential. Opt for places with dedicated professionals who understand thieves’ tactics to break into cars.
Given their experience and expertise in the field, these experts are typically better equipped to install systems that effectively counter theft attempts.
They’ve likely encountered nearly every method of car break-in and can install an alarm or security system specifically designed to prevent criminals from quickly accessing your vehicle.
Taking Simple Precautions Can Prevent Theft.
It doesn’t take much to deter a thief from attempting to break into your car. Thieves typically seek out the easiest targets and know what to avoid.
Combining a few basic measures, such as ensuring your vehicle is locked, keeping valuables out of sight, and parking in a way that makes it difficult for a quick getaway, can significantly reduce the theft risk.
Many criminals are pretty savvy when committing crimes; they can quickly assess a car and determine if it’s not worth their time.
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