Stopping car thieves is a job most people assume will be done by the police or city and town officials, but increased patrols and better lit streets can only do so much. Luckily there are some things you can do as a car owner to help protect yourself. Forbes Auto has compiled a helpful list of things you can do to help prevent your car from being stolen or broken into.
The easiest things you can do to protect your car are the obvious ones. Never leave your car running when you’re not in it, car thieves can hop in and be down the street by the time you’re done at the ATM. Don’t leave your windows cracked, no matter how hot it is outside, and always use the anti-theft devices that came with your car. Where you park also has a lot to do with your car’s safety, look for well-lit lots with an attendant who keeps an eye on things.
Some of the other recommendations are a little more involved, for instance you could switch to a car that isn’t as popular with thieves. Lists of the most commonly stolen cars come out each year, and common, valuable cars like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Accord usually top them. Forbes recommends having a device like Lojack installed and having VIN etching done to help convince car thieves that you car isn’t worth it.
