Having your car stolen is a motorist’s worst nightmare, and in an age where car theft is on the rise, there are a number of extra steps and strategies to consider when it comes to protecting your vehicle.
Between 2021 and 2022 car thefts in the UK were at an all time high, rising by an eye-watering 59 percent.
One brand in particular suffered the most, with reported thefts of Lexus (the luxury division of Toyota) vehicles rising by 513 percent between September 2021 and 2023.
One possible reason for the increasing popularity in car thefts is the number of vehicles that now feature keyless entry – making them much easier for thieves to gain entry and start the engine.
Motoring experts from Swansway Motor Group have shared their thoughts on how you can take extra steps to secure your vehicle.
A surprising visual deterrent is to keep your car looking clean and fresh, rather than have it appear neglected.
“Thieves often target neglected-looking cars, assuming they’re an easy mark. Having a clean car also helps as thieves will often assume with a messy car that there is something of value inside to take,” they said.
“Customising your car with unique features like discreet markings or modifications can also work to deter thieves. Personalisation makes your vehicle less appealing for quick and anonymous theft as it becomes easily identifiable and presents a higher risk.”
Strategic parking is something that all car-owners should practise – rather than just finding a convenient spot, consider its security first and foremost.
“A well-lit area or a car park with CCTV is a deterrent that creates a protective environment around your vehicle,” the experts explained. In these spaces, thieves are more likely to be seen and caught, making your car a less attractive target.”
If you do own a keyless car, don’t panic and assume your vehicle is a sitting duck. Although security needs to evolve, there are preventative steps you can take available right now.
“Faraday pouches are a simple, yet highly effective tool. By shielding your car keys from external signals, these pouches prevent remote signal interceptions, a common method used by modern thieves to gain access to vehicles without needing the physical key,” the motoring experts said.
The final piece of advice offered by the experts at Swansway Motoring Group is to invest in visual deterrents.
“Visible security measures, like steering wheel locks, might seem old-fashioned, but their visual presence alone can be a strong deterrent,” they said.
“When a thief is looking for targets, the sight of a physical lock can shift their decision, as it indicates an additional time-consuming obstacle. Additionally, parking in busy areas or streets where there’s constant activity can serve as a natural deterrent, reducing the chances of your car being singled out by thieves.”
