Auto Security Systems Not The Only Way To Prevent Theft

by PEGGY LOE

There are many auto security systems available to keep your car safe from thieves. Most of them claim to have more benefits than the next antitheft device, but vehicle security devices are only one of many ways to keep your car safe and sound.

Common sense is your best defense against auto theft. Make sure that you never leave your keys in the car; do not be tempted to use hide-a-key devices. Always lock every car door and roll up all windows, and park the car in a well-lit and secure place. Thieves don't like to work hard to steal things, so as long as you make it difficult to steal your car, they are unlikely to try it.

It may not make a big difference which auto security system you select, because any of them will be a good deterrent against thieves trying to steal your car. Don't worry too much about their makers' claims. Whichever system that you buy needs to fit your needs and those of your car, and you need to use that system consistently to maximize its effectiveness.

There are many devices on the market that help you recover or trace your car after has been stolen, but GPS tracking devices can work as a deterrent as well. Often, less experienced thieves will shy away from stealing vehicles with GPS devices, so make sure it's very obvious to potential thieves that your automobile is armed with a tracking device.

A subtle way to deter car thieves is etching your car's VIN number into the glass, which will allow car parts to be tracked if your car is stolen and then broken up into parts for sale. Thieves who see these numbers will decide to try stealing another car instead.

Some makes and models of vehicles are more likely to be stolen than others. Many car magazines will list the cars most likely to be stolen each year. Vehicles on such a list should not be purchased. These kinds of cars seem to attract thieves, and auto security systems may not be enough to keep thieves away.

Every car owner wants to protect their vehicle from theft, but what may be surprising to some people is that not all vehicle security devices work the same. Although almost all the antitheft devices out there claim to be the "best," the truth, unknown to many, is that auto security systems are just one portion of making your car theft proof. It really doesn't matter which auto security system you buy as long as it prevents the thief from stealing your car. Whichever system you buy, should fit the needs of you and your car.