The Safe Driver

Protecting your vehicle from theft

Let’s face facts. We all work hard for what we have. We put in the time to reap the rewards. So when something we’ve had in our possession suddenly gets taken from us, there’s no surprise that we get annoyed or angry. This is especially true when it comes to our vehicle or its parts. Vehicle thefts are on the rise recently, but there are things you can do to reduce the risk of having your vehicle stolen.

The first thing that comes to mind is never leave your vehicle running without it being occupied. That’s the easiest way for someone to grab your vehicle. Even if you think those 10 seconds of running to the garbage can to dump out the garbage from your vehicle, it only takes 3 seconds for someone to hop into your vehicle, put it in gear and drive away. And never leave your vehicle running in your driveway to warm it up. It warms up better when you’re driving it anyway. And never hide a spare key on your vehicle. Professional thieves will look for those as well.

Many newer vehicles use a push button ignition. If your vehicle has this, where do you keep the fob while driving since you don’t need to put it in the ignition? Leaving your fob in the vehicle such as your coat pocket, coin tray, console, etc is asking for trouble especially if you leave your coat in the backseat and forget about it when you leave the vehicle. It’s so much easier to steal a vehicle with the key or fob to assist you. I do know someone who forgot they left their fob in their jacket in the backseat. Their vehicle was on the list of top vehicles to steal, so it was an easy target for the thieves. Once they realized the fob was in the backseat, see ya!

Another way to help avoid having your vehicle stolen is to ensure the doors are locked and the windows are up. This would also include when it’s parked in your own driveway. Areas that people tend to think are safe and secure are perfect places for vehicle thieves to come in and find these vehicles. Also, ensure you secure your valuables in the trunk. Out of sight is out of mind as they say. This is especially true during the holiday shopping season. Leaving a purse, wallet, phone, tablet and anything else of value is tempting for thieves. It’s eye candy to them. And we’re not just talking about professional thieves. We’re talking anyone without a conscience who is interested in what you have.

Parking in well-lit areas can also help deter would be thieves. Parking near or under a light post is like having a spot light above your vehicle. Less chance someone will break into or steal your vehicle this way. The same can be said about installing motion sensor lights on your property. I won’t eliminate theft, but it would reduce it.

Have you considered an anti-theft device or alarm for your vehicle? Many insurance companies offer a discount on your premiums if one is installed on your vehicle. If you’re interested in a security device, use an immobilizer. This stops the engine from being started. It doesn’t however stop the contents from being stolen. At least a steering wheel lock can be a visual deterrent.

However, if a professional thief wants your vehicle, it may be easier than you may realize for them to take it. Thieves may try to get close enough to a house to intercept and copy the signal between the fob and the vehicle; referred to as a relay theft. To avoid that from happening, never leave your fob inside your vehicle and close to the door. The signal could be reached from outside. If they physically break into the vehicle and use the on-board diagnostic system to give a different fob access to control the vehicle.

These are the many ways to help prevent vehicle thefts. Ensure you’re doing everything in your power to prevent the theft of your vehicle. A little bit of prevention can go a long way.

**Have a quick listen to this short episode of the “Speed Bumps” podcast as this is discussed further!