Nothing can describe the shock some drivers have experienced when they go to drive home and find their car is stolen. There are also those who have come back to a car park to find a broken window and expensive items such as GPS units and stereos are missing. Because cars are usually parked in a public space they become targets for thieves if proper measures are not taken.

While your car insurance will more than likely cover theft or stolen property, it is still something you do not want to experience. While some cars used to be quite easy to break into (with just a coat hanger) many newer vehicles will have much higher safety features. There are also many custom features as well as places to avoid parking to keep your vehicle safe.

Insure Your Vehicle

The best advice that will keep you from suffering a vehicle theft is to have your car insured Comprehensively or for Third Party Fire and Theft. It is easy to compare car insurance and having full coverage will also give you peace of mind. Be sure to check what your insurance will cover and ask the insurer any questions you are worried about.

Where Do You Park?

The biggest reason that many thefts and car break ins occur is parking in an unsecured or quiet location. This can include:

• Shopping centre car parks;
• On the street;
• Carports;
• Side streets and alleys; or
• Outside pubs and clubs.

While individual cases can vary, it is a good bet that thieves are targeting areas that do not have too many witnesses and are easily accessible. So what can you do to protect your vehicle?

Park in a Secure Car Park

While this is not always possible, parking in a secure car park will help reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen. Even at your home you should look at how your car is parked and, if possible, park it in a locked garage.

Remove the Keys and Lock the Car

This may seem like common sense but a lot of people will leave keys in their vehicle when they are at home. This does not stop opportunistic thieves from driving off with an unsecured vehicle. If your car is left unlocked the unwanted intruders can easily open the door and rummage around for anything of value.

Out of Sight Out of Mind

Keeping valuable belongings in plain site within your vehicle makes it a tempting target for theft. Make sure to take any valuables out of the car or, if this is not possible, put them away in a lockable  glove compartment or under the seat. It is also important to park your car in attended parking lots as thieves look for easier targets such as unattended parking garages.

Upgrade Your Car Security

While it may not be possible for you to buy the newest vehicle with the latest anti-theft devices, you can take measures to deter theft. Car alarms may not stop someone from getting into your car, but criminals hate having attention drawn to their actions. Even a simple wheel lock may not be totally secure but it acts as a visual deterrence for a ‘would be’ thief.

Remember to keep your car and your valuables safe by locking your car and avoiding unsecured car spaces if you can. Also make sure your comprehensive car insurance is completely up to date so you are covered should the worst happen.