Car Essentials: Anti-Theft Devices

Anti-Theft Device

An anti-theft system is a device or method for preventing criminals from taking a vehicle or items within it without permission.

While most such systems aren’t completely foolproof, they can at least slow down a thief. The longer it takes to steal a vehicle or break into one, the more attention will be attracted, and the likelihood that the thief would look elsewhere increases.

VIN Etching

A VIN etching is a chemical process of imprinting the vehicle’s identification number onto its windows and other noticeable. The purpose of this method is to discourage thieves from stealing the vehicle because it would lose its value at the chop shop (a place where thieves sell stolen cars). The reason why thieves and black market car dealers prefer vehicles with removable or no VIN numbers is because it is harder for the police to trace them.

Kill Switch

A hidden kill switch can be set up to prevent the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine until it is deactivated. It must be flipped on for the car to start.  While a kill switch can be inexpensive to buy, the key is hiding them well, so that a thief would not be able to see it.

Visible Steering Wheel Lock

A steering wheel lock is a long metal bar that fits across the steering wheel. It is designed to prevent the steering wheel from being turned, which would make it very difficult for a thief to drive. It is also very abrasive and a visual deterrent for many potential thieves.

Wheel Lock

A wheel lock is a metal device that encases a vehicle wheel to prevent the vehicle from being moved. It also makes it impossible for the wheel to be removed. Wheel locks are another visual deterrent for many potential thieves.

Steering Column Armoured Collars

A steering column armoured collar is a shield that prevents thieves from breaking into the steering column to hotwire a car. Some are permanent, while others need to be installed by the driver manually whenever he or she leaves the car.

Alarms

A car alarm is one of the most well-known and effective anti-theft devices. An alarm usually makes a loud warning sound whenever the car’s doors, hood or trunk are opened. A typical car alarm is equipped with motion sensors, impact sensors and a loud siren.

Electronic Keys

Pre-installed electronic keys allow the vehicle to operate only when a correctly-coded key is applied. This is an effective method because it is both user-friendly and reliable. It now comes standard in most car models.

Electronic Tracking Devices

An electronic tracking device is an apparatus, built into or hidden in the vehicle, which emits a signal that can be picked up by police or a monitoring station. There is a variety of different electronic tracking devices and services offered by each respective vendor.

Hood Lock

A hood lock prevents thieves from gaining access to the engine compartment. This should deter thieves who wish to sell the car for parts.

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