Did you know that the most likely months to have your car stolen are July & August? In the U.S., nearly every 44 seconds someone falls prey to an auto thief. Close to 50% of those thefts could be prevented by us, the auto owner, by following a few simple rules. A lot of these seem obvious, but since we never think that it could happen to us, it’s good to be reminded!
- Don’t leave your keys in the ignition or cup holder. Even if you have a keypad entry, a car thief won’t hesitate to break a window if they see your keys waiting for them.
- Know where your keys are always. The first question a police officer will ask you is, “Do you have your keys?”
- Don’t leave a hide-a-key somewhere on your vehicle. Car thieves are onto that trick!
- Lock your car. Even if it’s in your driveway in the safest of neighborhoods.
- Roll up your windows and secure the top if you are lucky enough to have a convertible. It might be hot when you first get in your car, but it’s better to have a car to get into.
- Park smart. You might have a beautiful and expensive ride, but if you choose to park it way out, it’s more likely to get stolen. Park near lights, cameras, and security if that’s an option. A ding is still easier to repair than a stolen car.
- Keep it off the street, even if that means investing in a garage rental space. The harder it is to get to, the less likely someone else will drive off with your car.
- Lock your car. Even when, if not especially when, you are driving. Carjackers aren’t afraid to hop in with you in the car or drag you out of the way.
- Invest in a kill switch. Not cheap, but if your car is expensive or high in intrinsic value, it could be worth the investment.
- Drive a manual. Most drivers in the U.S. don’t know how to drive stick, and that applies to your average, everyday car thief.
- Install an anti-theft system. Even just having the sticker on your car could be the necessary deterrent. They are looking for easy. Don’t be easy.
- Etch your vehicle’s VIN on the windshield. Again… thieves are looking for easy.
- Lock your car. Even when all you’re doing is going to pay for gas. Carjackers look for this opportunity.
Did we mention keep your vehicle locked at all times? Just wanted to make sure we hit that one home for ya! This is a compilation of some of the most basic ways to keep from being a statistic. One more great piece of advice… if someone wants to steal your car, it’s best to let them in the heat of the moment. No matter how precious your car is, you are more so. Stay safe! To help keep you from breaking down in a sketchy part of town, visit Robert’s Collision & Repair help keep you safe. You can find us at 234 Ramona Ave. in Monterey. For best service, schedule an appointment online.