5 Security hacks to prevent car theft
In the past five years, over 220 000 households have experienced car thefts.
This is according to 2023/24 Stats SA's Victims of Crime (VoC) report which highlight the surge in car theft rates.
Experts from Zego have offered five tips to help drivers protect their vehicles during the busy travel season.
Five tips to keep your car safe from theft
1. Use a steering wheel lock
It is simple, but effective! A steering wheel lock is a visible deterrent that makes it harder and slower to steal a car, especially for thieves using relay technology.
Bonus Tip: Hook your seatbelt through the wheel as a backup if you don't have a lock! It's not foolproof but adds an extra layer of hassle for thieves.
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2. Etch your VIN into all windows
Having your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) chemically etched into every window makes your car traceable and less attractive to thieves. Replacing all windows is costly, and many buyers avoid VIN-etched cars due to their traceability. You can get this done at an auto-shop or buy an online DIY kit and do it yourself.
3. Beware of illegal tow trucks
Criminal gangs have been known to use unmarked or fake tow trucks to steal vehicles in broad daylight. If a tow truck seems suspicious (e.g. no uniform, an unbranded truck), take photos, ask for ID and report them immediately.
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4. Protect your car from key hacking
A lot of car thefts happen through key hacking, which is why it's crucial to take necessary steps to minimise the chances of that happening. There are a few measures you can take:
Disable your keyless car entry - In most cases you should be able to disable it on your own through the infotainment system, the instrument cluster or the key fob, but it's best to contact your car manufacturer first to get specific instructions for your particular vehicle.
Signal-block your car keys - Using a pouch to store your keys in is the most efficient way to do so, as its metallic material lining helps block radio-frequency signals.
Place your keys away from doors and windows - Storing your keys near entry points in your home increases the chances of thieves intercepting the signal from your key fob - keep them further inside to minimise the risk.
5. Turn your wheels to the curb when parking
Another simple yet overlooked deterrent - turn your wheels sharply toward the curb when parking. Doing so makes it harder for thieves to quickly tow or roll your car away and adds resistance for anyone trying to jack up the car and remove the wheels.
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