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Step 1
Keep your keys on you. Would you believe that almost twenty percent of all cars stolen have the keys left in them? Don't make it easy on a car thief. Take your keys out of the ignition, and don't leave them under a mat or in the console, either.
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Step 2
Roll up your windows and lock your doors, even if you will only be out of the car for a minute or two. Fifty percent of stolen cars have unlocked doors. A window that is left down even an inch or two makes it easier for a thief to get inside.
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Step 3
Install an alarm or other anti-theft device. These include alarms, brake and tire locks, locks for steering wheel or steering columns, window tinting and VIN etching on windows. While alarms and locks might be an obvious deterrent, tinting and etching are also daunting to thieves. If your windows are tinted, a thief won't easily spot the contents of your car, and will have to peer in to figure out the best way in. VIN etching means a thief will have to remove all of the windows before selling or using the vehicle.
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Step 4
Park in your garage rather than your driveway, if you have one. Always park in well-lit areas. If you use valet parking or an attended lot, only give the valet or parking attendant an ignition/door key. Make sure your trunk, glove compartment and console use a different key and, if they do not, have them rekeyed.
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Step 5
Disable your car if you have to leave it sitting for a long period of time. Do so in a manner that is easy for you to fix when you are ready to use it again.
