7 Tips for Enhancing Vehicle Security
It’s sad to say, but keeping your vehicle secure is a serious issue today, whether you’re concerned about break-ins, car-jacking, or vehicle theft. Vehicles are a prime target for criminals, and ensuring that yours is safeguarded can help you avoid stress, financial loss, and injury.
At Mike White Ford, we know how much your car means to you. It is not just the value of the vehicle but what it provides: commuting to work and school for you and your family, shopping errands, visits to friends and families, vacations, and freedom to go wherever you want whenever you want. Damage and theft of your car can have a devastating impact on your life and your finances.
You can significantly decrease your vulnerability by implementing proactive strategies and equipping your vehicle with the right security devices. Below are some practical tips to enhance your vehicle’s security and protect it from threats.
1. Park Smart
Where you park your car significantly impacts its security. Always choose well-lit, populated areas, especially if you’re parking for an extended period. Avoid secluded spots that provide cover for thieves to work unnoticed. When parking at home, use a garage if possible and ensure it is locked securely.
- Park in a well-lit, open area, preferably where there is high foot traffic
- Use a garage and lock it when not in use
- Avoid parking next to larger vehicles that can conceal suspicious activity
2. Never Leave Valuables in Plain Sight
A significant percentage of vehicle break-ins occur because valuables are left visible inside the car. Items like wallets, laptops, shopping bags, and small electronic devices can tempt thieves. Thieves may break in to see what’s inside a bag or box, even if an item isn’t valuable.
- Remove valuables before leaving your vehicle
- Store items out of sight, preferably in the trunk or a locked compartment
- Consider getting tinted windows or privacy screens to obscure visibility
3. Invest in a Quality Car Alarm System
A robust car alarm system can protect your vehicle from theft and tampering. Most modern cars come equipped with a basic factory-installed alarm. However, upgrading to a more advanced system can offer enhanced features such as shock sensors, remote notifications, and automatic engine kill switches. These alarms not only alert you when someone is attempting to break into your car but also deter would-be thieves by making it clear that the vehicle is hard to steal.
- Motion and impact sensors trigger alarms at the first sign of tampering
- Real-time alerts are sent to your smartphone
- Compatibility with GPS trackers for vehicle location tracking
4. Use a Steering Wheel or Pedal Lock
Physical deterrents like a steering wheel or pedal locks are simple yet effective tools to make your vehicle less attractive to thieves. These devices prevent the wheel from turning or the pedals from being pressed, making it extremely difficult for someone to drive the car away without removing the lock, which is time-consuming and draws attention.
- Steering wheel locks attach across the wheel to restrict movement
- Pedal locks clamp onto the brake or clutch pedal to prevent operation
- Gearshift locks block the gear lever, rendering the vehicle immobile
5. Install a GPS Tracking System
While it cannot prevent car theft, a GPS tracking system is extremely helpful with vehicle recovery should your car be stolen. A tracker can help law enforcement locate and retrieve it quickly. Some advanced tracking systems enable you to monitor the car’s location in real-time through a smartphone app or even immobilize the vehicle remotely. These systems are discreetly installed, making it difficult for thieves to detect or disable them.
- Real-time location tracking with geo-fencing alerts
- Remote immobilization capabilities
- Hidden installation for stealth operation
6. Use Anti-Theft Marking and VIN Etching
Anti-theft markings and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) etching serve as a deterrent by making it more difficult for thieves to sell stolen parts. Marking critical components like the engine, windows, and mirrors with the car’s VIN discourages theft because the parts can be traced back to the original owner.
- Deters thieves from stealing marked parts
- Assists law enforcement in tracking stolen vehicles
- Reduces insurance premiums in some cases
7. Take Advantage of Advanced Security Features in New Ford Vehicles
Newer vehicles, especially those in Ford’s lineup, come equipped with several security features that can significantly enhance your vehicle’s security. Many models now include Ford’s SecuriLock® Passive Anti-Theft System, which uses a coded ignition key to prevent unauthorized starting. In addition, advanced driver-assistance technologies like Pre-Collision Assist and BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) can increase your situational awareness, reducing the likelihood of car-jacking scenarios.
- SecuriLock® Anti-Theft System
- MyKey® Technology for restricting vehicle settings
- Enhanced alarms and vehicle perimeter sensors
- Remote vehicle monitoring with the FordPass™ app
Keep Your Vehicle Safe with the Right Security Strategies
Combining these practical tips and investing in security devices can significantly reduce the risk of theft and unauthorized access to your vehicle. Simple steps like these can go a long way in keeping your car safe.
If you’re in the market for a new car equipped with advanced security features, consider exploring the lineup at Mike White Ford. Contact us today or visit our North Idaho dealership, with showrooms in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, to learn more about how the latest Ford models are designed with your safety in mind. We’d be happy to help you choose a vehicle that suits your needs and style and offers you peace of mind. Reach out today to schedule a test drive.