Things Car Thieves Know That You Don’t

Did you know nearly one million cars are stolen in the United States each year?  That’s one car every 43 seconds.

Most people steal cars because they are desperate for money.  Here are some trade secrets that car thieves know that most car owners don’t.

You Specific Car Might Be a Target

A lot of car thieves target specific makes and models.  Typically Toyotas and Hondas are the most popular vehicles to steal.  The reason for this is they are easier to steal and have an impressive resale value so the parts are in demand.  If you’re driving a Honda Civic or Honda Accord, you’re the #1 target that most car thieves look for.  

Where Are You Parking Your Car

If you’re parking your car in front of your house or in your driveway, you’re fairly safe.  Thieves like to avoid these places because they tend to be too open and visible.  You could walk outside or a neighbor could see them.  They prefer dark, poorly lit, and well covered areas.  Like parking garages or long term parking lots.  Areas that have multiple cars and minor security are the best for thieves.  They get their pick and don’t have to stress too much about being caught.

Thieves Will Avoid

Car thieves dislike daytime, kill switches, alarms, nosy neighbors, and security cameras.  Car thieves want to spend the least amount of time at the scene of the crime.  They want to be in and out as quickly and inconspicuously as possible.  They want to avoid anything that can draw attention to them.

Don’t Idle Your Car

A lot of people start their cars and let them “warm up” in the mornings.  Sometimes that means letting the engine warm up, and sometimes that means letting the interior warm up.  This is a prime time for thieves to strike, and they know it.  Many individuals start their cars and then go back inside to finish getting ready, gather the kids, or any myriad of other reasons.  

Don’t Keep Spare Keys in the Car

Breaking into the car is the easiest part.  Once inside the car is where the difficulty lies.  Thieves will know how to start your car without the keys, but you can bet they will search for the keys first.  And they know where to look.  If they don’t find the keys this will require more time for them to start your car, and more time for them to be caught.

Keep Your Windows Rolled All the Way Up

Like we said above, getting into the car is the easiest part.  And when you have your window unrolled even a crack it makes it even easier.  Breaking a window when it’s cracked is much easier than breaking a window that is rolled all the way up.  You want to make sure you are making it as difficult as possible to steal your car.

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