How to Protect Your Vehicle From Auto Theft

There are myriad ways to protect your vehicle from auto theft. You should consider at least one of them, since every vehicle can be potentially stolen. No device or technique is a guarantee, but by following these steps you will increase your odds of keeping your vehicle safe.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Park your vehicle in a secure, safe place. Look for parking lots with stationed security guards or lots that are monitored by security cameras.
2. Hide valuable items such as CDs, expensive sunglasses, cell phones, MP3 players or other gadgets under the seats, in the glove box or under a blanket. This will take away one motivation for a break-in.
3. Always remove and take your keys with you, even if your car is parked in your garage or outside your house. Car thieves are always on the lookout for vehicles with the keys still in them.
4. Install a vehicle kill switch. When you leave the car, flipping this switch cuts off power to the ignition, making the vehicle hard to start.
5. Always leave your car windows closed if possible. When you are concerned about your pet having ventilation, close the windows and bring your pet with you.
6. Use your garage to store your car. Always lock the garage and the car doors.
7. Install a tracking system. Tracking systems hide a transmitter somewhere on your vehicle, allowing police to track it in the event of a theft.
8. Record your VIN (vehicle identification number). You can locate it on the dashboard near the front windshield or on the inside of the driver’s-side door near the latching mechanism.

Tips & Warnings

• Never leave your car unlocked when not attended; never leave your windows down; and never leave the keys in your car. Most vehicle thefts can be prevented by following these three important guidelines.
• If you install an ignition kill switch or fuel kill switch, remember to hide it well. It will not do any good if a thief can locate and toggle the switch.