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Cars and vans

This is how you can help protect your car or van: 

  • Thieves target mechanical and electronic weaknesses- use layers of security such as steering wheel, gear stick, or OBD locks combined with immobilisers and key security pouches to deter and prevent theft.
  • Leaving items on show is an invitation for theft- remove or hide power leads, SatNavs, mounts, stereo front panels, coins, sunglasses, tools, clothing, and bags.
  • Keys and ignition fobs should be kept safe and out of sight and reach-  as the most common method of vehicle theft involves taking the keys or fobs, either from the vehicle itself or through burglary at home.
  • Always lock your vehicle and close all windows when unattended- whether on your drive, at a petrol station forecourt, or when parking, as an unlocked vehicle is the easiest to steal or steal from. A steering wheel lock is an effective visual deterrent.
  • When away from home - consider parking in a ‘Park Mark’ approved car park for added security.
  • Keep electronic keys safe- Thieves can use scanners to read and copy electronic keys to steal vehicles without the physical key. Store your electronic key in a security pouch that blocks signals from keyless entry fobs. Test the pouch every few months to ensure it is working.
  • Fit theft-resistant number plate fittings- Stolen number plates are often used to disguise stolen vehicles. Use one-way clutch head screws to secure your number plates.
  • Consider fitting a lock to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic port (OBD)- This can prevent your vehicle from being reprogrammed by thieves. Contact your vehicle dealer for more details.
  • Ensure proper locking of vehicles with automatic wing mirrors- If your vehicle’s wing mirrors fold in when locked, make sure they are folded in. If they are not, it indicates the vehicle may be unlocked, attracting thieves.
  • Contact your dealership for advice on alarms, immobilisers, and tracking devices- Manufacturer-approved immobilisers can be personalised with dashboard controls known only to you. Tracking devices can help recover your vehicle if stolen.
  • When selling your vehicle privately, do not let the keys out of your sight- Thieves may clone your keys and later use them to steal the vehicle.