Car Security
Anyone who owns a car has at some time either had personal experience of criminal damage to or theft of or from their own vehicle - or at least knows someone who has. Quite apart from any financial losses incurred through being the victim of car crime, nothing can prevent the shock, distress and inconvenience caused by such incidents. If there was already a security system installed in your car when you first bought it there isn't much more you can do to prevent it from being deliberately vandalised or stolen, but if the best you can do is lock the doors each time you leave it, there are some basic measures you can take that will help to improve your car security.
If you don't have the luxury of a secure garage and have to leave your vehicle when not in use in a car park, on the street or on the drive at home, its security may be compromised if there are no alarm systems, immobilisers or tracking devices fitted to prevent or deter theft of or from the car. In this case it is worth considering these simple car security measures.
Remove the ignition key, lock all doors and ensure windows and sunroofs are closed.
If possible, place all moveable items out of sight either by storing them in the boot or under the seats, or removing them from the car altogether. If the boot space is non-existent or visible from outside the vehicle - people carriers, estates and some 4x4's for example - cover items concerned with something like a rug or blanket.
Some cars will have a cover fitted to hide the radio system and even though this is commonly found in many vehicles it is still a useful precaution that is often forgotten about by the car owner.
Unless your vehicle is parked in a locked garage overnight, consider leaving it in a well-lit or busy area as this will deny any would-be car thieves the opportunity to operate in an environment that is enhanced by being quiet and dark.
If your car does not already have an alarm, immobiliser or tracking device fitted, this simplified guide to car security systems will provide some basic information.
What are car alarms?
These are devices that are both visible and audible. Generally they work with sensors that detect the opening of doors, boots or bonnets and possibly by use of infra-red or ultrasonics that recognise movement inside the car. The presence of some devices is highlighted by the presence of small flashing lights mounted on the dashboard and/or window stickers. In the event that the car is broken into, either the horn or alarm will sound before the ignition can be turned on. More sophisticated car alarms will cause lights to flash and disable the ignition or petrol pump. It may be worth considering alarm systems that are powered by a separate battery as a thief can disconnect them more easily when they operate from the main vehicle battery.
What are immobilisers?
There are many types of immobiliser available on the market, most of which can be categorised into two types: mechanical and electrical. Mechanical devices disable the steering wheel, handbrake or gear-stick, are relatively cheap to buy, highly visible, key operated and generally do not require expert fitting. Electric immobilisers disable the engine by switching off the ignition or the petrol pump thus preventing the car from starting. Some are operated by the use of a hidden switch inside the car or by infra-red remote control from a key ring supplied by manufacturers of this type of security system.
What are tracking systems?
A tracker system is often the most expensive form of car security. The tracker is a hidden device installed and operates using satellite global positioning technology to signal its location after being triggered by having been reported as stolen. Once the car security system is activated, if you aren't already aware that your vehicle has been stolen you will be alerted, and then the Police will then be able to track the car to its exact location.
If you are unable to decide what is the best car security system for you the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre (MIRRC), also known as Thatcham, publishes a list of approved products and car security systems.
If you're thinking about installing an alarm, immobiliser or tracker system to your vehicle for the first time, or have the chance to keep your car garaged when not in use, always check with your insurance company as any measures you take to enhance your car security could mean you qualify for discounts on premiums or a choice of cheaper quotes.
