Vehicle theft is common and can result in significant financial loss and inconvenience for vehicle owners. However, there are several auto theft prevention steps that you can take to reduce the risk of your vehicle being stolen.
Here are some of the most effective Auto Theft Prevention Tips:
Lock Your Vehicle:
Always lock your vehicle doors and make sure your windows are closed, even if you’re only stepping away for a moment. An unlocked vehicle is an easy target for thieves, so make sure your vehicle is always secure.
Park in Well-Lit Areas:
When parking your vehicle, choose well-lit areas that are visible to others. This will make it harder for thieves to approach your vehicle unnoticed, and it will also make it easier for others to spot any suspicious activity.
Install an Alarm System:
A vehicle alarm can alert you and others if someone tries to steal your vehicle. Make sure your alarm is loud enough to be heard from a distance and consider adding a tracking device that can help you locate your vehicle if it is stolen but remember, do not take tracking your stolen vehicle into your own hands, call the police and report it instead.
Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Vehicle:
Thieves are more likely to target vehicles that have valuable items visible inside. Avoid leaving laptops, phones, bags, and other valuables in your vehicle, especially if they are visible from the outside.
Install a Kill Switch:
A kill switch is a device that can disable your vehicle’s ignition system, making it impossible for thieves to start your vehicle. These devices are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and they can provide an extra layer of security for your vehicle.
Use a Steering Wheel Lock:
A steering wheel lock is a physical barrier that makes it difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle. These locks are affordable and easy to install, and they are an effective deterrent for would-be thieves.
Install a Wheel Lock when Parked:
This is a great anti-theft device because it makes sure the tire/wheel won’t turn if stolen. Although this may take a little longer to install when parked it’ll be worth it, especially if you’ve had a car stolen in the past you’ll take this extra step to avoid this headache again!
Keyless vehicle theft, also known as relay theft, is a type of theft that involves intercepting and relaying signals between a keyless entry fob and a vehicle’s central locking system. Thieves use specialized equipment to amplify the signal from the key fob, allowing them to open and start the vehicle without needing the key itself.
One way that thieves can extend the transmitter on a keyless fob is by using a device called a relay box. This device can pick up the signal from the fob and then transmit it to another device held near the vehicle. This other device then relays the signal to the vehicle’s central locking system, allowing the thieves to gain entry to the vehicle and start the engine. Consider keeping your fob in a signal blocking box such as a Faraday box while your car is not in use.
By practicing these vehicle theft prevention tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle being stolen. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and with these simple steps, you can help protect your vehicle and keep it safe from thieves.
Check out this post by CBC News on the most stolen cars in 2023, and a story on a specific incident HERE! Also check out this Toronto Police Services article on Auto Crimes HERE!
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