How To Protect Your Car From Thieves
Here are 7 tips to protect your car from being stolen.
Here are 7 tips to protect your car from being stolen.
Car theft has been on the rise. In 2022, there were over 1 million stolen vehicles—a 7 percent increase over the previous year. That’s equivalent to one car stolen every 31.5 seconds. Luckily, with the right security setup in place you can protect yourself—and your ride—from day one.
While these numbers may feel discouraging, there’s a lot you can do to prevent car theft. Here are 7 tips to protect your car from being stolen (and avoid becoming a statistic.)
1. Lock the doors and close the windows.
Keep the doors locked, even when the car is running. Make it a habit to lock them when entering and exiting your vehicle. Some modern cars lock the doors automatically, but it’s never a bad idea to double-check.
Additionally, ensure that your windows are properly closed when you leave your car. Even the smallest gap could present an opportunity for potential thieves to break in.
2. Keep an eye on your vehicle with a security camera.
When properly installed with a clear view of your driveway, security cameras can deter criminals from stealing your car. Consider options like the Arlo 2nd Generation Essential Wireless Security Camera. This model comes in both an HD or 2K version for video recording and has Color Night Vision. Also, with a wide field of view, you’ll be able to capture multiple cars parked in front of your home.
To track your car parked inside a garage, opt for a wired indoor camera that can be easily connected to any power outlet. Options like the Arlo 2nd Generation Essential Indoor Security Camera come with 2-way audio and Color Night Vision.
If you’re interested in taking your security one step further, consider placing an LTE camera inside your vehicle. In the unfortunate case of theft, you can watch a livestream from the car and learn where the thief is headed. Consider options like the Arlo Go 2, with 4G LTE connectivity and a long-lasting battery. Plus, with GPS location tracking, you can also pinpoint the car’s location and provide the information to the police.
3. Park your car in well lit areas to deter criminals.
Parking in well-lit areas adds an extra layer of protection. Adequate lighting not only keeps your car visible. It also acts as a deterrent to potential thieves who prefer to act at night.
Some security cameras, like the previously mentioned Arlo 2nd Generation Essential Wireless Security Camera, come with an Integrated Spotlight and motion detection. For added security, you can consider options like the Arlo Pro 3 Wireless Floodlight Camera. This unique 2K security camera is built right into a bright LED floodlight, illuminating alleyways, driveways, and other expansive areas.
4. Avoid leaving your keys in the vehicle.
When preventing fast motor vehicle thefts, the key is—literally and figuratively—the key. Avoid leaving yours in the ignition, or even having a spare one in the glove box. Burglars cannot hot-wire modern cars as easily as older models. To start the engine, newer vehicles usually require a unique signal from the chip inside the key.
5. Install an alarm system or an anti-theft device.
Something as simple as a steering wheel lock can keep your car safe and deter criminals. But there are many other options for theft prevention. Consider an alarm system, immobilizer systems like a kill switch, or GPS trackers.
6. Never leave valuables inside your car.
Leaving valuables inside your car is an open invitation to potential thieves. Whether it’s electronics, bags, or personal items, avoid storing them in your vehicle.
To keep your valuables safe, either take them with you when you leave the car or hide them in the trunk. It’s a simple precaution that can save you a lot of hassle and frustration in the long run. Be extra cautious and don’t leave any loose visible items in your car—even if the item isn’t valuable, it may be a signal to a thief that there are valuables hidden.
7. Get 24/7 Emergency Response with Arlo Safe.
With a subscription plan like Arlo Safe, you can have the added security of One ap Emergency Response. This service also offers round-the-clock protection, including features like automatic car crash detection and family safety.
During a car theft, you can discreetly alert live security experts through your phone for quick assistance. Even if your phone is inside the car, you can still request help using an Arlo Safe Button. Keep it in your pocket or on your keychain to request assistance, up to 90 feet away from your phone.
Stolen car on camera? Here’s what to do.
If you’re a victim of car theft in your driveway or parking lot, contact law enforcement immediately. In 2022, cars reported stolen within 24 hours had a 34 percent same-day recovery rate. Having your stolen car caught on camera can only improve your odds.
Here’s a list of necessary information when reporting the incident to the police:
Invest in a high resolution security camera like the Arlo 2nd Generation Essential Wireless Security Camera to capture all the details. Pro tip: Security footage of the theft makes it easier to identify the thieves, prosecute them and get your car back. With an Arlo Secure Subscription Plan, you can view, share, and save 30 days of video and event recordings from anywhere. Protect your car from thieves today with Arlo—and hit the open road tomorrow.
