If you’re going on holiday without your car, here’re some tips to ensure it enjoys the break and is waiting for you when you return.
It seems that 80% of drivers fail to take additional safety precautions beyond locking their vehicle.
From removing valuable possessions to applying a steering wheel lock, there are a number of simple measures drivers can take to reduce the risk of their car being broken into.
That said, new research from used car search platform MOTORS has revealed that a shocking four in five UK drivers fail to take additional security steps beyond locking their vehicle before going on holiday.
To help Brits further secure their cars, Steven Edwards, motoring editor at MOTORS has outlined six effective ways drivers can boost the security of their vehicle before going on holiday.
1) Take possessions out of your car
Your car can quickly accumulate a lot of items, from mundane everyday discards (think empty crisp packets) to high-value items like jewellery and work devices.
Leaving items out on full display can make your vehicle vulnerable to smash-and-grab thieves.
Before going on holiday, clear out all visible and hidden areas. Remove everything, regardless of value, from your seats, foot wells and dashboard, remembering to check your cup holders for jewellery.
2) Apply a steering wheel lock or clamp
In a time when thieves’ digital capabilities to get into cars are becoming more advanced, steering wheel locks and clamps are a great physical deterrent.
The amount of effort needed to remove these systems makes them a good security addition. But, ensure the clamp or lock you purchase is fit for purpose and check that it is Sold Secure tested, or Secured by Design (SBD) approved.
3) Take measures to prevent thieves gaining access to your car keys
As car thieves become more sophisticated they’re finding new ways to gain access to car keys. With that in mind, being vigilant about where you leave your keys is more important than ever. Here are a few ways that you can keep your keys secure:
Keeping your keys out of your house while you’re away
Taking your car keys with you or giving them to a trusted person can ensure that even if thieves manage to break into your property they won’t get access to your car keys and drive off with your motor.
Investing in a key signal blocker
Keyless car theft is one of the most common ways thieves break into cars. By using devices that relay your car’s wireless key signals, your vehicle can be tricked into believing the keys inside your home are much closer, enabling it to be unlocked and driven off.
To prevent this form of theft, invest in a key signal blocker. These pouches are lined with a special material that blocks the frequency of your car keys stopping them from being replicated.
It’s important to check that the pouch you buy is specifically for car keys as some will only be suitable for bank and credit cards. Some drivers put their keys in the family’s microwave-oven, but remember they are there before you switch on when you return!
4) Park at a relative’s house
Criminals sometimes scope out properties before coming back to steal from them at a later point.
A car parked outside your home with days or weeks of no movement can be a telltale sign that you are away, making your unattended vehicle a target.
If you don’t have access to private, secure parking like a garage leaving your car outside a relative or friend’s house who is staying at home could be a good idea.
5) Avoid announcing your holiday on social media
Social media is a big part of modern life and something we use daily, but if you are going on holiday, it is important to avoid advertising it online. This includes countdowns to your holiday and live posting from abroad.
Thieves on social media may see you’re away and take the opportunity to go to your unattended property and vehicle, especially if your account is public. Save sharing the holiday snaps for when you are back home and reunited with your car!
6) Inform your Neighbourhood Watch
If you have a Neighbourhood Watch or are on good terms with your neighbours, let them know that you are going away and ask them to keep an eye on your car, updating you should they notice anything suspicious.
