In 2023 there were 1,020,729 cars stolen according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. This was up from the 1,008,756 reported stolen in 2022. This number does not include break-ins, it is just car thefts.
Like most of us, we work hard to have a car and the last thing we want is to have someone steal our hard work. Stolen cars are often a case of “opportunity” for thieves. By reducing the opportunity, you reduce your theft risk.
Where I live we have groups of kids hired to come to the suburbs from the city to steal cars. They come in groups, stake out homes and take as many cars as possible. It is hard to catch these groups since they work fast and drive over an hour to get out of dodge and back to the big city.
In this article, we will share some ways you can minimize the chances of someone stealing your vehicle – as well as the goods inside. Some will be common sense, but are important reminders that we all need to hear.
Lock Car Doors
Police in our town have sent many Facebook messages about this. Cars are often being stolen because they are not locked. This fact is coming from the thieves themselves. They will go around the neighborhood and try car door handles – if it is unlocked, the car is as good as stolen. You should lock your car every time you leave it. Even if you are just running into the Quick-E-Mart to grab a lottery ticket! Leaving your car unlocked is like asking for it to be stolen.
Key Fob Safety
Another reason for the rise in car thefts in our area is due to the number of key fobs being left in cars. Leaving your key fob in the car means the thieves have easy access and can make a quick getaway. Always take your fob with you when you leave your car.
Key fobs with keyless entry are also highly susceptible to hacks. This is an ongoing frustration for law enforcement. Placing your key fob in a signal-blocking pouch (Faraday pouch) is highly recommended to help minimize data transmission to your car.
Park in Areas With Lots of Light
Thieves do not like light and do not want to be seen! Choosing to park in an area with a lot of light will minimize risk since thieves are less likely to go after cars where visibility is strong.
Choose Parking Areas with Security
If at all possible always choose a parking lot that has a security guard on duty. Of course, this is not available everywhere, but often cities have security-monitored parking garages that offer more safety than public lots.
Hide Valuables
We are not sure why people do this, but leaving any tech or jewelry in a car is a bad idea. Laptops, phones and wallets when left in plain view can entice thieves to act. We highly recommend you never leave them in a car, they should be taken with you when you go. If it is not possible, then be sure to hide them in a trunk, glove compartment or under a seat. This will help deter criminals.
Window Tinting
This option won’t work everywhere since some states have laws about window tinting. But if you can do this where you live, it can be an added protection method. If the criminals cannot see what is in your car – they won’t waste time trying to break in. It doesn’t hurt that tinting looks pretty good on most cars too!
Parking Boot
The dreaded parking boot was something that people dreaded, especially in the big city. But, now you can use it as a car owner and help reduce car theft opportunities! Adding a boot to your car may seem drastic, but if your area is facing an increase in overnight car thefts – it can be one of the best ways to reduce risk. Who is going to want to deal with that hassle?
Car Cover
While it may not completely protect you from theft, a car cover can add an extra layer of frustration thieves do not want to be bothered with. When they need to work fast, taking time to remove a car cover may not be worth the risk. The bonus of them not being able to easily see what kind of car it is may also act as a deterrent.
Steering Wheel Locks
Steering wheel locks are an effective way to prevent vehicle theft. When thieves can see the car is protected in a way that may be hard to break through, they won’t waste their time. They will move on to a car that is easier to steal.
Dash Cam with Parking Mode
Dash cams make great surveillance tools. We use them in our cars while driving in case we are in an accident. But, having one while you are parked is a good idea too. Not all dash cams have a parking mode feature so you might need to upgrade. But, the value will be worth it to ward off thieves who do not want to be caught on camera! It is also great for police and insurance investigations in the event your car is stolen.
Spare Keys
Most cars these days come with key fobs, not traditional keys, but we wanted to add a gentle reminder about traditional spare keys. If you are hiding spare keys outside – stop. The old hide-a-key under the mat or planter is an outdated method that puts your home and car at risk. If you must have a spare key somewhere, see if you can leave it with a neighbor or get an outdoor safe that will be more secure.
Resources
https://www.nicb.org/news/news-releases/vehicle-thefts-surge-nationwide-2023
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