For most people their car is more than just a quick way to get from A to B, it is an essential part of our lives. It makes sense then, to spend a minute or two making sure your car doesn’t become a target.
Car crime as an opportunist crime, that is if you don't give a thief the opportunity to take your belongings or your car they can't. Therefore you have a part to play in helping to reduce car crime by being careful and putting into practice some simple and cheap security measures.
Think now! Don’t be wise after the event!
Scroll down for some tips to help you keep your vehicle safe or download the vehicle security information leaflet. 
Vehicle Security Information Booklet v2.pdf (2 pages, 343kb)
Sat nav
Today, satellite navigation systems (sat navs) are the things most often taken from cars.
- Make sure you remove your sat nav every time you leave your car and take it with you! Do not leave it in your glove box.
- Remove the cradle from the windscreen. Leaving a cradle on view can make thieves think that a sat nav may still be stored somewhere inside the vehicle.
- Wipe away the mark that is left on the windscreen when the sat nav and the cradle are removed. Thieves sometimes look for the mark as a sign that you have left a sat nav somewhere inside the vehicle.
Garages
We all take a great deal of care securing our houses but we also leave our property in a garage. Think about how secure your garage is too!
- Make sure that you fit a good lock on your garage door using 'Thatcham' or 'Sold Secure' Gold products, like the garage 'defender' lock.
- Fit garage windows with a grille and ensure screw heads are not visible on hinges.
- Never leave your garage open and unattended, even if you are just popping into the house.
- If you leave items such as bicycles in your garage ensure they are security marked and secure them to the wall of the garage.
- Install a 'dusk 'til dawn low energy security light to light up your garage entrance.
Don't display your valuables
Never leave anything on display when you park your car even if you are only leaving your car for a few minutes. If you can’t carry it with you store it in the boot, not the glove box. Do not give thieves any opportunity.
Car parks
Always try and park your car in an attended car park or in a car park that is part of the police-approved Park Mark Scheme. These car parks have been vetted by the police and have measures in place in order to create a safer environment for both you and your vehicle.
In addition, never leave a car door unlocked or a window or sunroof open – even when just going into a shop for a moment or two.
General parking
Never leave car keys in your car. Never leave your vehicle unlocked, even if you are only going to pay for petrol at a garage. Double check that all car doors, windows, sunroof and boot are locked before leaving it. Put your aerial down to stop it being vandalised.
Parking at home
Always use your garage if you have one. Always lock your car and your garage. If you don't have a garage, always try to park in a well-lit, open place.
Steering locks
Remove the car keys and use a steering wheel lock – even when parking in your own driveway or garage. Use a steering wheel lock every time you leave your car in the open.
Immobilisers
Electronic engine immobilisers stop your car from starting and are the best way to stop thieves. They should be professionally fitted by an approved installer.
Car alarms
Car alarms can deter thieves from not only stealing your car, but also taking things from it. They should be fitted by a professional.
Locking wheel nuts
These are cheap and easy to fit. They stop thieves from taking your wheels.
Etching
Have your car registration number or the last seven digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched onto all windows, both windscreens and your headlamps. Mark all your car equipment, like your car stereo, with your vehicle registration number.
Approved security devices
There are many types of car security devices on the market – from steering wheel and clutch pedal locks to sophisticated electronic protection. Alarms should conform to BS6803 standard. Check before you buy – is it Sold Secure Pact Approved? You should only buy security devices or services that are approved by either Thatcham (the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre) or by Sold Secure.