Protecting Your Car From Theft

If you've ever had your car stolen, you know what a nightmare it can be. In the United States, car theft is still prevalent. The state of California ranked first in total thefts, but areas in Texas, Nevada and New Mexico followed their ranking closely. Border towns to Mexico have seen a significant increase in theft, especially in the El Paso, Laredo and San Antonio area. Laredo ranked second on the chart with an average of more than 827.21 thefts per 100,000 people in 2008 - primarily due to the shuttling of drugs, money and weapons through Mexico.

So how can you protect your car from theft? First, you must think like a thief. What does a thief look for before stealing a car?

1. Does The Car Have A Car Alarm - Thieves will bump into cars to see if it has an alarm system. They know people are used to hearing alarms go off and often don't check to see if anything is going on. If you do have a car alarm, try using one that has a pager that notifies you when your alarm is activated rather than depend on passers-by to check on it for you. Also know there are some shady alarm installers out there who will leave wires exposed to be cut or deactivated. If you are just putting in a car alarm, go to a large reputable chain store to have it installed. Also, don't let the alarm company display decals on your vehicle advertising what type of alarm system you have. Professional thieves know how to disable the various brands. Last, you may also want to invest in a hood lock to keep thieves from disabling your alarm there as well.

2. Are There Valuables Inside. Car thieves will do anything it takes if they see valuables inside your car; this includes breaking your window or jimmying your locks. Keep valuables out of plain sight. It doesn't take long to grab up anything lying on the seat and hide it or even take it with you, such as portable GPS units. If you have a stereo and it comes with a removable faceplate, be sure to remove it and hide it in the glove box.

3. Know That Steering Locks Can Be Cut. If you have a lock on your steering wheel, know it can be cut. If possible, try installing a starter disable switch and putting in a secret place.

4. Don't Leave Your Car Unattended - Whether you are running in to pay for your gas, purchase something or going to the ATM, don't leave your keys in the ignition. No use making it easy for thieves.

5. Don’t leave your registration and insurance in your car - This is something most people do out of habit. Your car's title and registration also has your home address on it. Keep all of this information with you.

6. Know Where Thieves Look For Cars - Many professional thieves like to stake out parking lots, sporting events and movie theaters so they can pick out the car of their choice. When parking, park in areas with security or lot attendants. Park as closely to entrances as possible and on sides of the street with this most activity. If you do park in an attended lot, leave only the ignition key - take with you the key to your trunk and glovebox. If these keys are the same, have them changed.

7. Don't Hide Your Keys - Looking for that spare key is a simple way a thief can break into your car. They know many people hide magnetic boxes under their vehicles and are familiar with all the hiding places.

8. Lock Your Doors and Close Your Windows - This one seems obvious but many people leave their windows cracked or doors unlocked. This makes it a more desirable target for theft.

9. Back Into Your Driveway - If you have a rear-wheel vehicle, back into your driveway. For front-wheel, park front end first. This makes it difficult to tow. Also use your emergency brake.
These are simple steps that can help prevent your vehicle from being stolen and save you a lot of trouble and time in the long run.


Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.