When you go out of town on vacation, you may ask friends to get your mail, feed your pets and turn on lights in your home to make it look occupied. But how you can protect your car when you’re not home? If you’ve got a garage, that’s the best place for your car. Many people who live in cities, though, have to park on the street or in a driveway, and attentive thieves may notice when a car has been parked in one place for too long.
A decline in car thefts in recent years could be attributed to anti-theft systems offered in many new vehicles. No matter how old your car is, your actions could make it more or less likely to be stolen.
Car alarm
Of the many precautions you can take to protect your car, a car alarm is one of the most popular and effective.
The purpose of a car alarm is to startle a would-be thief, so you don’t need to be home for this anti-theft tool to be effective. One of the most useful features of a car alarm is the tiny blinking LED light on the dashboard, which tells thieves that breaking into your car may be more trouble than it’s worth.
Car alarms can cost as little as $100 dollars or as much as $1,000. And even though car insurance might cover your loss if your car were stolen, you’d still need to cover your deductible to replace your car.
Steering wheel or ignition lock
Any visible anti-theft device goes a long way in protecting your car. These locking systems come in different shapes and sizes. Some simply fit over your steering wheel and prevent it from turning. Others fit over your ignition, which prevents thieves from starting your car. There’s even a model that prevents your steering wheel from moving and your gas pedal from being used.
Park in busy, well-lit areas
If you normally park on a city street or some other public area, choose your parking spot wisely when you’re going on vacation. Park in well-lit and populated areas, rather than a quiet street. Better yet, find a lot with an attendant. Paying to keep your car there for a week will likely be less of a hassle than having your car stolen.
Tracking systems
One of the newest developments in anti-theft technology – available through systems like OnStar or LoJack – allows for remote tracking of your car in the event it’s stolen.
When you’re on vacation, you want to be free of the stressors of everyday life. Taking proper steps to protect your car while you’re away will allow you to relax and enjoy your destination.
