Around two million vehicle-related thefts take place on the road every year, despite overall car crime figures dropping 30 per cent since 1997. Unfortunately, such a large drop doesn’t mean you’re not at risk from having your car stolen. There are many ways to ensure that your car isn’t one of the two million that do find their way into criminal’s hands.
What attracts car thieves?
Leaving valuable items in you car is one way to attract car thieves. We’ve all done it – left a portable CD player on the dashboard or placed the Game Boy down on the nearest seat. Attractive items such as these are likely to raise the risk of theft, especially if the car is in a secluded place. It’s not just electrical goods that attract the attention of criminals; clothes, jewellery or even a simple bag can all tempt thieves.
Preventing theft
Unfortunately, it’s not just items left in the car that can arouse the attention of car thieves. Sometimes, the most attractive thing is the car itself. Here are some ways to help prevent car robbery:
- Parking location
Parking at the side of the road is always going to be riskier than parking in a garage, so if you’ve got one, make sure you use it. Criminals will find it much easier to break into a car on the side of the road than they will breaking into a garage. Of course, if you don’t have the luxury of a garage, make sure you park near your house in a well-lit area.
- Car alarms
A fully alarmed car is an effective way of deterring criminals. If your car isn’t alarmed and you want to install one, make sure a professional fits it. Never attempt to fit an alarm yourself.
- Immobilisers
A good alternative to a car alarm is an immobiliser. An immobiliser will prevent the car from starting for a brief period once the car is unlocked. In order for you to start the engine once it has been immobilised, you must lock and unlock the car. Since the car thief is unlikely to be carrying the key to your car, they won’t be able to start it.
- Steering locks
If you can’t afford an alarm, a steering lock is a cheap and practical alternative. They can help prevent anyone from turning the wheel.
- Locking wheel nuts
These are cheap, easy to fit and extremely effective and will ensure no one runs off with your nice alloy wheels.
- Tracking devices
These are essential if you’re driving an expensive car around. When installed, your car is immediately added to a database of cars that can be pinpointed around the UK within minutes. If your car is stolen, the criminal will almost certainly be caught and your car will be returned. Since over half of stolen cars are never found after the theft has occurred, it’s useful to install one for peace of mind.
Of course, the downside to these devices is the set-up cost. Expect to pay a minimum of around £400 year for most models, while for complete coverage you can expect to pay just under the £1,000 mark.
Buying security devices
Security devices such as car alarms and immobilisers should only be bought from companies that have been approved, like Thatcham or Sold Secure. When fitting security devices, ensure that they’re fitted by a professional – either by the manufacturer of your car when you purchase it, or by someone qualified for the job.