Auto Theft Prevention
CURB AUTO THEFT
Time is the car thief's enemy. The longer it takes to steal a car the more likely they will be noticed and caught. Some criminals can take your car in less than 2 minutes. While there is no perfect method to stop someone from stealing your car, there are many ways to deter them. The goal is to "harden the target" so to speak -- make your car less appealing to the thief. This can be done through the use of any of a number of anti-theft devices available today.
Most anti-theft devices cost the consumer less than the insurance deductible paid out if their car is stolen and there are discounts offered for using them.
Make sure the used vehicle you buy is not stolen!
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If a deal seems to be "too good to be true," it probably is.
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Deal only with a reputable, established licensed used car dealer.
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If you buy a vehicle from an individual, make sure the name on the title and registration match the name and address of the person selling the vehicle.
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Check out the name, address and place of employment of the seller. Be aware of someone selling a vehicle who is not willing to give you this information.
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Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) to see if it has been tampered with. This number is located on a plate attached to the dash near the left side of the front windshield.
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Make sure the VIN matches the number on the seller's title.
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Ask the seller for references about past financing and insurance on the vehicle. Verify the information.
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Ask for the manufacturer's keys, do not accept a replacement set.
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Beware of new paint on a late model vehicle.
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Complete all paperwork at the time of the sale.
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Do not buy a used vehicle without being present when the title is notarized
Vehicle Theft Prevention Tips
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Park in well-lighted areas
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Close all windows, lock all doors, and take the vehicle keys with you, even if you only leave your vehicle for a minute.
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Don't leave your original registration or title in your car
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Activate any anti-theft devices
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Permanently mark your vehicle windows with your vehicle identification number (VIN) by VIN etching
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Never hide a second set of keys anywhere on or near your car
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Never leave your car's engine running, even if you'll only be gone a minute at places such as daycare centers, convenience stores, gas stations, ATM's, etc.
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Park in attended lots
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Park your vehicle with the wheels turned toward the curb. This makes your vehicle difficult to tow
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Don't become complacent because you drive an older model car. Older cars are often stripped for parts that are sold for two or three times the value of the vehicle
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Remove any valet key from the vehicle (they are usually included in the owner's manual)
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Don’t park your vehicle behind another vehicle that is larger than yours blocking the view of your vehicle from where it can be seen from a business or residence.
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