Although modern vehicles are more secure than ever, car theft remains a serious issue across the UK. Criminals are constantly developing new techniques to target vehicles, from relay attacks on keyless cars to opportunistic thefts involving unlocked vehicles.
Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to reduce the risk and keep your car safe.
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Lock Your Car and Keep Your Keys Safe
It may sound obvious, but locking your car properly is one of the most effective ways to prevent theft.
When leaving your vehicle, make sure:
- All doors are locked
- Windows and sunroofs are fully closed
- The alarm is activated
- The parking brake is applied
If your car has keyless entry, take extra care. Criminals can use relay devices to capture and extend the signal from your key fob, potentially allowing them to unlock and start your car without having physical access to the key.
To help prevent this:
- Store your keys away from doors and windows
- Keep spare keys out of sight
- Use a Faraday pouch or signal-blocking container to prevent relay attacks
- Double-check that your car has locked before walking away
Remove Valuables from Your Vehicle
Visible valuables can make your car an attractive target.
Avoid leaving items such as:
- Handbags
- Mobile phones
- Laptops
- Sat navs
- Tools and equipment
- Wallets or purses
Even items hidden under coats or bags can tempt thieves if they suspect something valuable is underneath.
It’s also wise to remove personal documents from your vehicle, including insurance paperwork and registration documents where possible.
Park in Safe Locations
Where you park can significantly affect the likelihood of theft.
Whenever possible, park:
- In a locked garage
- On a private driveway
- In well-lit areas
- Near CCTV cameras
- In busy locations with regular foot traffic
If you’re parking overnight, avoid isolated streets or poorly lit areas where criminals are less likely to be seen.
Consider Additional Security Devices
Extra security measures can provide valuable protection and may even reduce insurance premiums.
Popular anti-theft options include:
Steering Wheel Locks
Visible steering wheel locks act as a strong visual deterrent and make a vehicle more difficult to steal.
Immobilisers
Most modern vehicles are fitted with immobilisers that prevent the engine from starting without the correct key.
Vehicle Tracking Systems
Tracking devices can help police recover stolen vehicles more quickly and may be particularly worthwhile for high-value cars.
Automatic Alarms
Many modern vehicles include alarms as standard, but aftermarket systems are also available for older cars.
Check Your Insurance Cover
Not all insurance policies offer the same level of protection against theft.
Third-Party Insurance
Third-party cover generally does not provide compensation if your vehicle is stolen.
Comprehensive Insurance
Comprehensive policies typically include cover for vehicle theft, attempted theft and damage caused during a theft.
Before choosing a policy, check:
- Theft cover limits
- Personal belongings cover
- Replacement vehicle options
- Security requirements
Failing to meet your insurer’s security conditions could affect a future claim.
Reprogramme Keys When Buying a Used Car
If you’ve recently purchased a used vehicle, consider having all keys reprogrammed.
You may not know how many keys previous owners still possess, and reprogramming ensures that only your current keys can access and start the vehicle.
While there is a cost involved, it can provide valuable peace of mind.
Protect Keyless Entry Vehicles
Keyless entry systems are convenient, but they can also be targeted by criminals using relay attack technology.
To protect a keyless vehicle:
- Store keys in a Faraday pouch
- Turn off keyless entry functionality if your vehicle allows it
- Keep keys well away from external walls and windows
- Update vehicle software when manufacturer updates become available
For more information on how to prevent keyless entry car theft, we’ve got you covered.
Final Thoughts
No security measure can completely eliminate the risk of theft, but combining good habits with modern security devices can make your vehicle far less appealing to criminals.
If you’re thinking about replacing your current car with something newer and better protected, it’s worth finding out what your vehicle is worth first.
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