With every technological update, car thieves become more ingenious and adopt new tactics to steal cars. Car theft is a situation no one is ever prepared for. According to the Insurance Information Institute, $6.4 billion were lost to motor vehicle theft in 2018. Keeping these statistics in mind, it is important to take active steps to prevent your car from being stolen.
How to Prevent Your Car from Being Stolen
1. Place your keys in aluminium foil
Some car thieves use certain devices to intercept the signals from your car keys surreptitiously. When they get hold of these signals, they gain access to your car and steal it. Therefore, you should wrap your car keys in metallic items like aluminum foil to block the signals and protect your car from relay attacks.
2. Etch your VIN Number on your car window and mirror
Another method of protecting your car from theft is to etch your VIN number on your car window and mirror. This method is inexpensive, but it will discourage potential car thieves as they will have to change the window and mirror.
3. Hide an old phone or tablet in the car
When you have to park your car in a seemingly unsafe place, make sure to keep an old phone switched on and hidden in the car. Also, ensure that the phone is synced with your Google account and connected to Wi-Fi at all times. This will help you track your car easily using the "Find my phone" feature.
4. Tug the spark plug
Another efficient but inexpensive method of preventing car theft is to pull a spark plug. Any car needs a spark on its cylinder to "come alive." By pulling the spark plug, the spark won't be supplied to the cylinder, and the ignition won't be initiated. This method is effective in places where criminals cannot open the hood to identify the problem.
5. Always lock your car doors
One of the easiest ways to prevent thieves from stealing your car is to lock its doors. Therefore, even if you are running an errand and will be absent only for a few minutes, make sure to always lock your car doors.
6. Always use a well-lit parking space
Nefarious activities like car thefts can be easily executed under the cover of darkness. Therefore, always make sure to park your car in a well-lit space to avoid all chances of theft.
7. Do not leave valuables in your car
Some thieves are not interested in your car but its contents. Therefore, by emptying it of valuables, like jewelry, gadgets, and other expensive items, you will make your car less susceptible to thefts.
Car theft is a common crime in the United States. Unfortunately, despite following the tips mentioned above, your car can still be stolen. The only thing close to total protection is getting your car insured. If you would like to know more about the right coverage for your car, reach out to our experts at
Abatelli Insurance. Our team of professionals can help you with your
car insurance needs. Contact us today to get started.
