3 Things That Make You Stick out to Car Thieves
Don’t make yourself a target. Car thieves are always watching and waiting for an opportunity to strike. You might not notice them lurking in the shadows, that’s why it’s important to avoid these mistakes.
Three things that make you a target for car thieves
The first thing that can make you stick out like a sore thumb to car thieves is the lack of an engine immobilizer.
According to Marc Phillips, a Car Expert at RoadRunner Auto Transport, engine immobilizers are a critical line of defense against theft.
Certain models, like older Hyundai and Kia cars and SUVs, lack this anti-theft tech, making them prime targets. Without an immobilizer, cars are easier to break into and hotwire.
An engine immobilizer works by preventing the engine from starting due to an importer ignition key. The system uses radio waves to identify the correct key. If your car doesn’t have one, devices like screwdrivers can be used to start the engine.
The second way to prevent car theft includes knowing which cars and trucks are more popular. For years the Ford F-150 was the most targeted truck, partly because of how incredibly popular it is.
Because it’s a popular truck, it doesn’t have to be stolen and resold to make a profit. Thieves can benefit from stripping it for parts such as the wheels, bumpers, and headlights due to supply chain constraints.
These parts are not only expensive to replace, but they could be hard to find. So, if a repair shop can get their hands on these valuable items, they can cut down on delays.
Last, but not least, be aware of your surroundings. Think about where you park your car and always lock the doors.
Parking in a seedy area without much light gives car thieves a better opportunity to strike. Areas that are well-lit with security cameras are much safer.
Keeping your valuables out of plain sight can help reduce the risk of car theft as well. Plus, even if you’re only doing a quick errand, never leave your keys in the car.
Other ways to protect your car include having the windows tinted so thieves can’t see inside of it, using a steering wheel lock or pedal lock to make your car harder to steal, and using after-market vehicle recovery systems to make your vehicle easier to locate after it’s stolen.
