All cars are vulnerable to theft or other damages from anti-social behaviour.

Did you know, a whopping 74,769 cars were stolen in 2020 – an average of 1 vehicle stolen every 7 minutes.

And this figure is only rising (in 2019, it was 20,000 vehicles less).

If you have a car on the higher end of the price end, you may be under the assumption that its quality built-in security will keep it safe.

On the other hand, if you have an old banger, you might think that no ones gonna steal it because what’s the point right? 

Hello youthful joyriders!

Now think, do you perform the 3-step check before you leave the house?

Do I have my wallet? Yes

Do I have my keys? Yes

Do I have my phone? Yes

For some, this has become a habit everyday for a smooth start and to reduce our worries of forgetting something or leaving the house unlocked.

Now think, do you perform a routine check every time you leave your car?

If you don’t, here are 5 tips to help you keep your vehicle secure and minimise the risk of theft.

1. Always Lock the Doors

As obvious as it sounds, always make sure the doors of your vehicle are locked before you leave; if your car has a keyless entry, always check the door before you leave.

Moreover, never leave your car open and unattended – even if it is only for a minute.

In the winter, a lot of us are guilty of leaving the car running while it defrosts then head back indoors, which creates a gap for opportunists to jump in and drive off.

So, wake up that little earlier so you can be by your car, if not inside, whilst it defrosts.

2. Do Not Leave Valuables on Display

Never leave valuables on display – even if your windows are tinted.

Things like wallets, purses, phones etc. should always be stored away, either locked in the glove compartment or in the boot of your car.

And the same applies to satnavs too, including the cradle!

3. Plan Before You Park

It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and think about where you’re going to park before you drive to your final destination.

Ideally, you will want to park somewhere that is properly lit and visible, or in a car park that has been approved by the Park Mark standard and has passed a police risk assessment.

An ex-burglar suggested keeping your wheels turned into the curb as it means criminals will have to make more manoeuvres to drive away.

4. Fit a Dash Cam

Dash cams that come with intelligent parking modes will turn themselves on when movement around the vehicle has been detected.

What’s great, is that if an incident does occur while you’re away from the vehicle, all activity will be recorded for you as evidence to report.

Plus, it’s a great deterrent for thieves to begin with because let’s be real, who wants their face on camera during criminal activity!

5. Buy a Steering Wheel Lock

It may seem old school, but a bright coloured and strong wheel lock is usually a good deterrent for many thieves.

Which is good for your peace of mind if you’re worried your vehicle will be stolen – especially if you’ve not parked in a great area.

If you are going to invest in one, be sure it doesn’t rest too heavily against the steering wheel, touches the horn or is close to the indicator.

At the same time, check if it doesn’t scratch the steering wheel or interfere with gearbox paddles, if you have them.

The Final Word

The above tips may seem a little obvious, however it’s very easy to forget the smallest of things.

In fact, research shows that adults forget, on average, 3 things a day.

So don’t let checking your car thoroughly be one of them!

For more information, contact us today.

Please check our Vehicle Weight Checker solutions in the meantime.

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