Picture it. You’re walking out of the grocery store and see the spot where you parked your car… and it’s empty. Your heart drops and panic sets in. This is a nightmare that no one wants to experience. Unfortunately, car theft happens all too often, and rates in the Las Vegas area are continuing to rise. Fortunately, there are ways to decrease your chances of becoming a victim to car theft.
Why are car theft rates continuing to rise?
Car theft is obviously not a new concept. It has plagued both cities and suburbs for decades, but today, rates are higher than ever before. And according to Fox 5, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reported that the city of Las Vegas “has seen a 37% increase in motor vehicle theft year-to-date from January 1 to June 30, compared to the same time period in 2022.” Numbers are only continuing to trend upward. It leaves drivers wondering, “Why are we experiencing this spike in car thefts?” It’s like driving our cars has become a game of Russian Roulette.
One major culprit of car thefts is keyless entry. While it is convenient to own a car with a keyless entry system, thieves have become experts at hacking and cloning entry codes or simply accessing the car through the keyless system’s vulnerable electronic signals. Many popular car brands and models have become victims of this method, which is why it is crucial to always lock your car physically even with the keyless entry feature.
Further inspiration for thieves to break into cars is the illegal reselling of parts. Many thieves will break into cars and take specific parts that can easily be resold. These include navigation systems, airbags, engines, and wheels to name a few. Some of the stolen parts are even shipped overseas, and thieves make out like bandits (pun intended).
And ultimately, much of the rise in car theft is due to a general lack of additional security measures. That’s why its essential to be proactive and take steps to protect your car from car theft.
Here are five tips to help you keep your ride safe and sound!
5) Lock It Up
Seems simple enough, right? But you’d be surprised how many people forget this step. Make sure your car is locked every time you exit it. And always double-check before walking away. Leaving your car unlocked is an open invitation to potential thieves.
4) Don't Leave Valuables In Plain Sight
We’ve all done it. Running into the store to grab just a few things and leaving our purse or laptop on the passenger seat. But this is just asking for trouble. Leaving any valuables in plain sight, even for just a few minutes, is an open invitation for thieves. Put them in the trunk or take them with you.
3) Park In Safe Areas
When parking, try to choose well-lit and populated areas. This will help deter anyone who may be lurking around looking for an opportunity to steal your vehicle. And if you’re parking at home, make sure to keep your garage door closed and locked.
2) Get A Car Alarm
Car alarms may seem like a nuisance, but they’re a great deterrent to thieves. Make sure to get a quality alarm that includes a loud siren and flashing lights. The commotion that it creates can be enough to make a thief think twice before attempting to steal your vehicle.
1) Use A Steering Wheel Lock
Steering wheel locks, also known as club locks, are a simple yet effective way to prevent car theft. These locks work by locking the steering wheel in place, making it nearly impossible to move the car. And most importantly, they can’t be removed without the key.
