Is Your Car a Target?

Is Your Car a Target?

Vehicle crime can happen anywhere, and thieves are often looking for an easy opportunity. Taking a few simple precautions can make your vehicle less attractive to criminals and help protect your belongings.

West Midlands Police is reminding motorists to think about vehicle security every time they park, whether that is at home, at work or while out and about.

Lock it, check it

Always make sure your vehicle is locked, even if you are only leaving it for a short time. Check that windows and the sunroof are fully closed and, where possible, fold in your wing mirrors as a visual reminder that the vehicle is secure.

Do not assume your vehicle has locked simply because you have pressed the button on your key fob. Take a moment to check before walking away.

Keep valuables out of sight

Never leave valuables on display inside your vehicle. Bags, mobile phones, laptops, wallets, tools, loose change and shopping can all attract unwanted attention.

Even items that may not appear valuable could tempt someone to break into your vehicle. If possible, remove belongings completely rather than hiding them inside the car.

For vans and work vehicles, consider removing tools overnight and using additional security such as lockable storage, alarms and marking equipment.

Protect against keyless theft

Vehicles with keyless entry can be vulnerable to relay theft, where criminals attempt to capture and extend the signal from the vehicle's key.

At home, keep keys away from doors and windows and consider storing them in a signal-blocking Faraday pouch. Check regularly that the pouch is still effective.

Additional physical security, such as a steering wheel lock, can also provide a visible deterrent and make your vehicle more difficult to steal.

Think about where you park

Whenever possible, park in a locked garage, on a secure driveway or in a busy, well-lit area.

At home, security lighting, CCTV and doorbell cameras can provide additional protection. Driveway security posts and other physical barriers may also help prevent a vehicle from being driven away.

When using a public car park, look for locations with good lighting and appropriate security measures.

Protect number plates and catalytic converters

Vehicle crime does not always involve stealing the whole vehicle. Criminals may target number plates, catalytic converters and other vehicle parts.

Security screws can make number plates more difficult to remove. Depending on your vehicle, additional catalytic converter protection may also be available.

Marking vehicle parts with a unique identifier can help police identify stolen property and may make parts more difficult for criminals to sell.

Don't make it easy for thieves

A few extra seconds spent checking your vehicle could prevent the inconvenience and expense caused by vehicle crime.

Remember:

Vehicle security works best when several measures are used together. Making your vehicle harder to access, harder to start and harder to steal can encourage criminals to move on.

If you see suspicious activity around vehicles, report it to West Midlands Police. If a crime is taking place or there is an immediate risk to someone, call 999.