Lock Down Your Ride: Auto Theft Prevention Tips

Auto theft continues to be a persistent problem in Denver and around the country. Luckily, there are ways to protect yourself from becoming a victim of auto theft. Here are a few...

Lock it up.

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Take a moment to ensure that your car doors are locked, and that all windows and your sunroof are closed. And don't ever leave a spare key hidden in or on your car; thieves know where to look.

Hide your valuables.

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Leaving valuables in your car, in plain sight is a sure invitation to thieves. Hide them, or don't leave anything of value in your car, period.

Don't puff.

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Never, ever, ever, leave your car running unattended. It's illegal in Colorado and an easy way for thieves to steal your car.

Make your car less attractive to car thieves.

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Have your car's VIN number etched on each of the windows of your car. This makes them easier to trace and less attractive to thieves.

Invest in a steering wheel lock.

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A visible steering wheel lock is a good deterrent for car thieves and it prevents the steering wheel from being turned.

Or maybe some floorboard locks.

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Floorboard locks prevent the use of the gas or break pedal by disabling them.

Or how about a gearshift lock?

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A gearshift lock prevents the transmission from shifting.

And you can always put a boot on it.

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Boots aren't just for the enforcers. You can purchase one yourself and place it on the wheel of your car to prevent the vehicle from moving.

Hood locks protect your car and look cool.

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Hood locks prevent car thieves from gaining access to your car's battery and security system.

Armored collars are just for warriors.

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Armored collars or steering column locks prevent thieves from accessing the ignition wires.

Get a car alarm and use it.

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Audio alarms are good. They are loud and attract attention when unwanted parties try to access your vehicle through the door, hood, or trunk.

Park smart.

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If parking in public, make sure to park in well-lit areas, in lots with cameras, or in lots with an attendant. If you are parking at home and have a garage, use it, and be sure to lock your car even if it is in the garage.

Install a tracking system.

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Maybe you've taken every precaution to keep your vehicle from being stolen but somehow thieves still got it. Well, you can install a vehicle tracking system that is activated when your car is stolen.