30 Ways to Help Stop Auto Theft

    Common Sense is Your Best Defense

1. Lock your car.
2. Take your keys.
3. Never hide a second set of keys in your car.
4. Park in well-lit areas.
5. Park in attended lots.
6. If you park in an attended lot and have to leave your key with an attendant, leave only the ignition and door key.
7. Never leave your car running unattended. Vehicles are commonly stolen at ATMs, convenience stores, etc.
8. Completely close all car windows when parked.
9. Don’t leave valuables in plain view.
10. Park your vehicle with wheels turned towards the curb.
11. If your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, back into your driveway.
12. Always use your emergency brake when parked.
13. If you have a garage, use it.
14. When parked in a garage, lock the garage door as well as your vehicle.
15. Never leave the registration or title in your car.
16. Remove the electronic ignition fuse, coil wire, rotor distributor, or otherwise disable your vehicle if you are leaving it unattended for an extended period of time.
17. Replace "T-shaped" door locks with straight locks.
18. Stolen cars or parts are more easily traced when Vehicle Identification Numbers have been etched on car windows and major parts.
19. Engrave expensive accessories with a personal identification number.
20. Drop business cards, address labels, or other identification inside vehicle doors.

Investing in Vehicle Protection

21. Ignition kill switches prevent the engine from starting.
22. Fuel kill switches halt the fuel supply.
23. Visible steering wheel locks prevent the steering wheel from being turned.
24. Floorboard locks disable the gas or brake pedal to prevent the use of these pedals.
25. Gearshift locks disable shifting of the transmission.
26. Tire or wheel locks prevent the vehicle from moving.
27. Hood locks prevent thieves from gaining access to your security system and battery.
28. Armored collars around the steering column deter thieves from breaking into the steering column to get to the ignition wires.

Electronic Security Systems

29. Audio alarms emit loud warning sounds when the doors, hood, or trunk are opened.
30. Vehicle tracking systems, like the Lo-Jack system install a transmitter in your vehicle, which is activated when you report your car stolen. Police vehicles with the Lo-Jack receiver can track the location of your vehicle for recovery.

Last updated: Sunday, December 03, 2006