Car Alarms

The single biggest reason for the drop in thefts of newer cars in recent years is the standard fitting of alarms and immobilisers to all new vehicles.

Alarms can deter both car theft and theft from your vehicle, and electronic engine immobilisers are highly effective as they prevent the engine from actually starting.  In combination, they are enough to put most car thieves off.  Older cars can have alarms and immobilisers fitted to them.

Thatcham is the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre (MIRRC) that has been responsible for testing and approving vehicle security systems on behalf of the insurance industry since 1992.  They publish a list of approved products and systems, and recommend a "category one" system automatically activates when you leave the car, an "anti-scan" key-code system and a battery backed-up siren.

If you have already an alarm an engine immobiliser can also be fitted or your alarm can be upgraded to "category one" if it doesn't meet Thatcham standards.

Whilst fitting a Thatcham approved system doesn't guarantee that your car won't be stolen, it will both reduce the risk and your insurance premium as well.

It is also important that the alarm and immobilising systems are fitted properly to your car.  The AA recommends installation by a Thatcham or Mobile Electronics and Security Federation (MESF) approved installer.

Other Security Devices

There are many other car security devices available from shops and garages.

You can buy products that:

• Fit across the steering wheel
• Attach to the gear stick, handbrake or pedals
• Wheel clamps

These are fine as deterrents, but note that in tests some of these devices have shown that they can be removed very quickly.

Both the Master Locksmiths Association and insurance industry run schemes that test and approve vehicle security devices.

Other Devices

Other security devices available include:

• Locking wheel nuts
• Security posts for your drive way
• Locking petrol cap
• Side screen protection film (to stop smash and grab theft)
• Deadlocks for your car doors

All of which add to the general security of your vehicle.  If you already have one or more security devices, or you are thinking of securing an older model vehicle, it is worth checking your car security rating to see if you meet the necessary standard.