- Invest in devices that improve the security of your car against burglary
- Develop safety habits inside your car
- Be mindful where you park your car. Use your intuition and choose parking spots that you see to be safe.
Car theft, robbery and burglary is a major concern amongst all of us. Many of us see our car like an extension of our homes that provide comfort and personal space. Unlike a house, a car is a living space that changes location from time to time. It is most exposed to the public, and for the criminals, it’s a great target for theft, robbery and burglary.
According to the Insurance Information Institute (iii.org), the FBI reported that $7.4 billion was lost due to motor vehicle theft in 2020 in the US with the average dollar loss per theft at $9,166. As to the count, it is 810,400 vehicles stolen in 2020. From 2011 to 2020, the average theft per year is 736,726 motor vehicles.
Relying on your car’s security locks whether mechanical or electronic or combination of both are simply not enough. There are even lots of resources online that show how to open a car. There are also devices that can be bought that can jam the car alarm, or steal the code of the key fob which tricks the car that the real key fob is near.
I did my research and wanted to share how to be prepared. Below are some useful tips and devices to get to be prepared against theft, robbery and burglary in your car.
Steering wheel lock
Steering wheel locks are popular vehicle safety tool and provide another layer of security and it can be a good deterrent as it can be easily seen.
There are many steering wheel locks available on Amazon with good reviews that fit any standard steering wheel size. Choose steering wheel locks that have keys that cannot be duplicated, and allow you to unlock in a few seconds.
Pick a steering wheel lock that is made of strong components like hardened steel. It must be friendly and easy to use to encourage you to use it all the time. The clamping mechanism must be adequately protected and must have a good locking mechanism.
When using the wheel lock, it must clamp around a spoke and the wheel. It must cover the clamping mechanism. It must fit tight on the steering wheel to avoid the ease of cutting the steering wheel. Gap spacers can be used to ensure tight fit. The steering wheel lock must be positioned in such a way that getting in and out of the car is troublesome. Lastly, use it all the time.
Below are 2 great types of steering wheel locks you can get.
The Tevlaphee Steering Wheel Lock is a universal fit lock designed to prevent car theft and enhance vehicle security. Its self-locking feature can be easily installed and removed with a single pull, making it a convenient and user-friendly option to protect your vehicle. The lock is placed at the back of the steering wheel to avoid obstructing the airbag, and it includes a Blue Magic Velcro to keep it secure without needing a key. The package contains a glass cap to prevent accidental damage and a metal car safety escape tool for emergencies. Since it is made of high-quality round steel and premium aluminum/alloy, the lock is resistant to attacks. It includes four protective pads and two hammer caps to prevent damage or pressure to the steering wheel. This lock is highly recommended by car experts and police officers as a physical deterrent to car thieves.
The KAYCENTOP steering wheel belt lock is a durable anti-theft device that protects your car from criminals. It can lock the steering wheel and seatbelt buckle together, is compatible with most cars, and is easy to install and use. With three keys included, you can ensure added security. This multi-functional lock lets you secure your handbag or other valuables in your car seat. In short, the KAYCENTOP steering wheel belt lock is a reliable and versatile solution that provides top-notch security, convenience, and peace of mind.
Brake lock
A brake lock takes away the ability of the vehicle to brake, hence Just like a steering wheel lock, choose a brake lock made from high quality material that is sturdy and durable. Choose brake locks that are adjustable to fit most vehicles, have keys that cannot be duplicated, and unlocks in a few seconds.
Below is a good steering wheel lock you can get.
The Tevlaphee Universal Steering Wheel Brake Lock is constructed from sturdy aluminum/alloy and steel, providing resistance to cutting, knocking, corrosion, cracking, and various attacks such as pry, saw, hammer, and Freon. It has a dual-lock cylinder that enhances its strength and offers a lower aperture ratio. Two adhesive tapes are included to stick to the U-shaped part of the lock hook to prevent marks on the steering wheel. The Three-Section telescopic hydraulic brake lock can be compressed to adjust the steering wheel brake/pedal/clutch height, making it suitable for cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and golf carts. The lock is easy to use, and it only takes a few seconds to secure your car’s steering wheel and clutch, providing double protection against theft.
Wheel clamp
A wheel clamp works by locking the vehicle’s ability to move by locking the wheel from rotating. This makes it difficult to move the vehicle unless the thieves find a way to lift the vehicle, which is way complicated. This can help deter car theft.
There are many types of wheel clamps to choose from such as a triangular wheel clamp which wraps around the entire tire. There’s also a claw-style wheel clamp which has two opposite arms that clamps the wheel front and rear and has a steel post that prevents the wheel from turning. Then there’s also a limpet-style wheel lock, which bolts to one of the wheel bolts using a special nut fitting.
Below is a good wheel clamp you can get.
The Zento Deals tire clamp is an excellent quality product made from high-grade ABS material that ensures strength, durability, and longevity. It is soft-coated for comfortable handling and PVC-coated to prevent any harm or scratch to wheel rims. This clamp safeguards your vehicle from theft, towing, or unauthorized access. It works efficiently with cars, SUVs, ATVs, and trucks, and its striking red and yellow colors make it highly visible. The clamp is heavy-duty and promises customer satisfaction. It has two keys for easy accessibility in case of loss, breakage, or misplacement. Installing the clamp is quick and straightforward, offering an easy way to protect your vehicle.
Car alarm
A car alarm system is a standard feature for vehicle safety and is a good way to prevent theft, robbery and burglary in your vehicle. It’s also an effective way of deterring other people from breaking into your vehicle if you leave it unsecured.
A car alarm makes use of the fact that most thieves will avoid entering an area where there are lots of other people around, especially in busy areas like shopping centers or bus stations. By using this strategy yourself, you can deter potential thieves from entering your vehicle by alerting them via loud sound effects when someone tries to break into your car!
This is why a car alarm is one of the best ways to keep your vehicle safe from theft. It’s also a good idea to park in well-lit areas and to make sure that there are people around when you leave your vehicle. If you have any doubts about whether or not it’s safe to leave your car alone, then it’s probably best not to do so.
When buying a new car alarm, it is best to get them from a store or shop that will include the installation. For reference, below are some of the most popular and highly-rated car alarms available today:
Viper 5906V – This alarm system offers multiple layers of protection, including a shock sensor, remote start, and two-way communication. It also includes GPS tracking capabilities, allowing you to locate your vehicle if it’s stolen.
Python 5706P – This system includes a dual-stage shock sensor, which can detect both light and heavy impacts. It also offers remote start, keyless entry, and a one-mile range remote.
Avital 3100LX – This affordable car alarm system includes a six-tone siren, shock sensor, and keyless entry. It also features a panic mode and valet mode for added convenience.
GPS device
Installing a GPS device while placing a warning sticker outside the car are good deterrent against car theft and burglary. A GPS device is a small box that connects to GPS satellites and reports real-time coordinates that can pinpoint its location. When placed inside the car, it can also help pinpoint the location of the car.
Spytec GPS provides the quickest and simplest GPS tracking solution for vehicles, equipment, and valuables utilizing 4G satellite technology. Users can receive real-time location alerts through the Hapn app on their iOS or Android device. The Reporting Modes feature enables users to control the frequency of updates and extend the battery life. Time Machine allows users to view the entire history of their tracked asset, including trips, stops, and alerts. The device’s update speed can be customized on-the-go, providing visibility as often as every 5 seconds or once a day to conserve battery life for up to 14 days. The subscription-based service starts at $25/month annually or $30/month month-to-month, and includes a lifetime warranty and 24/7 support. International coverage is available with additional configuration required, contact customer service for details.
Panic Button
Consider a hidden panic button. A panic button is a device that can be installed in your car, which you can press in an emergency to alert the police. They come in two main types: wired and wireless.
Wired devices require an electrical outlet and can be either glued or screwed into the dashboard near where you would normally sit (in front of or behind). Wireless ones are battery powered and sit on top of your steering wheel, allowing potential thieves to easily locate them when they’re looking for their next target.
The best way to install a panic button is to have it installed by a professional. This will ensure that it’s properly wired and waterproofed so that it works even if your car breaks down in a storm. To know more, see this blog post about panic button by samsara.com
There is no 1 solution that will keep any criminal from entering your car. It is best to have multiple car security secured around. If you can, it is safest to get all the safety device types.
Conclusion
While it might seem like a hassle to add these additional security measures to your car to improve vehicle safety, they can be well worth the effort. If you’re worried about being robbed or burgled in your vehicle, it’s important to have the right tools in place to scare-off criminals.
