How to make your car more secure

Making your car secure is more relevant today than ever before as carnapping and car theft remains one of the country’s most rampant crimes, especially in urbanized areas such as Metro Manila and Calabarzon. In the first quarter of 2014 alone, a total of 2,662 motorcycles and cars were reported stolen in the country, according to the Highway Patrol Group (HPG). To help our readers prevent this from happening, Carmudi PH has come up with tips on how to make your car more secure with little or no expenses involved. These tips are mostly preventive and can easily be performed by newbie drivers.

Know how thieves operate

One of the best ways to avoid being a victim of a car thief is to know how they operate. Police officials usually inform the public of the latest modus operandis of criminals and how they lure their targets. One of the most prevalent tactics they have used in recent years is rear ending the victim’s car and when the driver gets out of his vehicle, a group of men will forcibly take it away from him. According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), below are some of the most stolen car models in the country because of their resale value and availability.

• Toyota Fortuner
• Nissan Urvan
• Isuzu Crosswind

The local police force say that these car models are very saleable on the black market. The Fortuner, for example, can easily fetch P700,000, half of its brand new price of 1.3 million, especially if it is a newer model and is still in good condition. They have also listed the areas where carnapping incidents are very rampant- Metro Manila, Central Luzon and Calabarzon.

Lock all doors and windows

A large number of car owners will not lock their cars, simply because they will only leave it for a short time. It only takes a few seconds for car thieves to rob your car, especially if they have been eyeing up your unit and have come up with a definite plan. And they could give the protagonists of “Gone in Sixty Seconds” a run for their money. If your car has a keyless alarm make sure that all door locks are functioning properly. Also make sure that you close your sunroof (if you have one) and that security alarms are set. In case you have a car with manual windows, wind them all up to the top.

Never leave your car running unattended

Possibly the easiest way for your car to be stolen is to leave the engine running while you get out of it to grab a quick cup of coffee at your local café or go to the ATM to withdraw cash. Most carnappers pick their spot frequently beside ATMs where people are likely to do these careless acts. When leaving your car, make sure you carry your keys with you. It is also advisable not to carry a hidden spare key in your car. Some car thieves are counting on the fact that when they brake the car’s windows, its owner will have another key somewhere in the car.

Park in secure, well-lit spaces

Park your car in more secured locations, such as a commercial parking lot with paid car attendants who can look after your vehicle. Although this will require you to pay an extra amount, you will feel more secure. When parking at night, make sure it is a well-lit place and has people or passers-by around it. This helps deter thieves preying on your car. When you park your car for a long time, it is advisable that you carry your valuables such as your laptop, gadgetries and important documents. If you are unable to do this, put them under the seat or some place that passers-by can not see them.

Maximize the use of security features

If your car is installed with car security features such as a theft alarm or combination locks, make sure you use them to their fullest. Figure out if your car has features such as this and if you need extra equipment to make it more secure. As much as possible, make sure that you do not over customize your car, especially if you use it daily. Add-ons or options such as custom rims, anexpensive stereo system, and a carbon fiber hood makes your car a more desirable target as it adds an extra value.

Inscribe VIN and invest in added safety features

Marking your car by inscribing its vehicle identification number (VIN) will make it harder for car thieves to sell your car or even its parts. Make sure that you place one in its most important parts such as the engine, its battery, trunk door, windscreen glass and side doors. If you have spare cash, it would be beneficial to invest in added security options like steering wheel locks, tire locks, kill switch and GPS especially if you have an expensive car. Some advanced equipment and apps can also help you track your car’s location real time, making it easier for car authorities to pursue the carnappers should your car be stolen.