Reduce Your Risk of Being a Victim of Auto Theft
- Details
- Written by Drew Guthrie
- Category: Articles
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a motor vehicle is stolen approximately every 41 seconds. That adds up to over 750,000 motor vehicles a year. Whether you own a car, pickup truck, SUV, or motorcycle, your vehicle could be at risk. These tips can help you reduce the risk of your vehicle being stolen.
Remember that a vehicle can be stolen in about a minute so take precautions.
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Park in a well-lit area. If you have a garage, use it.
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Never leave your keys in the car or the car running and unattended. Close all the windows and the sunroof. Don't keep the valet key in your vehicle.
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When parked on the street, turn your wheels toward the curb to make it more difficult for it to be towed.
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Don't leave valuables or personal items, including your purse or wallet, visible in the car. Lock items in the truck or covered area.
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Use the vehicle's anti-theft system if it has one. If not, consider having one installed.
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Unless required by your state, don't keep your vehicle title, registration, and proof of insurance in your vehicle.
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Use the provided tracking system or install a tracking device. This can help recover the vehicle if it's stolen.
If You Have a Keyless System
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Don't leave the fob in your car or hidden in the car.
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If possible, disable the touch entry. That will prevent thieves from entering the vehicle if you are close.
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Switch off the fob when not in use.
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Test the fob to see how far away from the vehicle it works. Store the key outside of that range. You can also store it in a metal container, signal blocking wallet or signal blocking pouch such as a Faraday bag.
Remember that a vehicle can be stolen in about a minute so taking these and other precautions can make it harder for a thief.
For More Information
- Vehicle Theft Prevention from NHTSA
- Facts + Statistics: Auto theft from the Insurance Information Institute
- Prevent Auto Theft from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB)