4 Ways to Prevent Car Theft
Car theft is a growing concern across Canada, with auto theft claims increasing by a staggering 245% between 2018 and 2023. The financial impact is huge, as insurance companies reported over $1 billion in losses from stolen vehicles. But, you can take steps to protect your vehicle from becoming part of these statistics. Hereโs how you can prevent car theft and safeguard your investment.
1. Simple Steps for Everyday Protection
While it may seem obvious, many vehicle thefts occur because of simple oversights. Follow these everyday precautions to reduce the risk:
- Lock your doors: Always lock your car doors, even when parked in your driveway or for short stops.
- Don’t leave your keys in the car: Never leave your keys in the ignition, and avoid remote-starting your car without supervision, even on cold days.
- Close your windows: Ensure all windows are closed completely before leaving your vehicle unattended.
- Park smart: Choose well-lit areas to park your car, and if possible, park inside a garage for added security.
2. Visible and Audible Deterrents
Making your car a less attractive target for thieves can significantly reduce the risk of theft. Here are some visible and audible deterrents that help:
- Audible alarms: A loud alarm can draw attention and scare off thieves.
- Steering wheel/brake pedal locks: Physical locks make it harder to drive away with your vehicle.
- On-board diagnostic (OBD) port lock: This prevents thieves from accessing the car’s computer systems.
- Theft deterrent decals: Displaying stickers or signs that your vehicle is protected can deter potential criminals.
- RFID-blocking pouches: Place your key fob inside these pouches to prevent thieves from intercepting the signal, even when parked at home.
3. Install a Vehicle Immobilizer
A quality aftermarket immobilizer can add an extra layer of protection to your car. These devices disable the ignition system, preventing thieves from hot-wiring or using advanced relay attacks to steal your car. Look for an immobilizer that protects against common threats like CAN bus attacks and reprogramming attacks.
4. Use a Tracking System
In the unfortunate event that your car is stolen, a tracking system can help locate it quickly. These services install multiple, hard-to-find tracking devices throughout your vehicle. While they don’t prevent theft, they can dramatically increase the chances of recovering your vehicle before itโs too late.
Prevention is Key
While prevention is key, itโs equally important to have the right auto insurance coverage in case the unexpected happens. A-Kan Insurance offers comprehensive auto insurance policies that protect you against the financial impact of vehicle theft. Weโre here to ensure that youโre fully covered and can help you tailor a policy to your needs.
Remember, A-kan insurance is here to help with your insurance needs. If you want to explore how your insurance policy can further protect your car, contact us today for expert advice.
Stay secure, and take actionโbecause when it comes to car theft, prevention is your best defense!
