Vehicle security tips
Avoiding the opportunist thief
Use highly visible security i.e. Thatcham-approved steering locks and devices
If your vehicle doesn’t have one, invest in a Thatcham-approved Alarm & Tracking System
Register all valuables (sat navs and dash cams) on Secure Asset Register
Consider investing in a locking petrol cap or locking wheel nuts
Ensure vehicle software is up-to-date and ‘recalls’ completed – check with dealer
Check with your dealer what latest security measures can be retro-fitted to older vehicles. This can often cost less than your insurance excess
Look into protecting ‘passive entry’ vehicles against a relay attack here. Search ‘shielding for car keys’
At home – consider investing in CCTV or security lights
Car Security
Reversing up to a wall or solid object helps secure the rear of a van
Remove tools, stock and equipment – especially overnight
Consider investing in a Sold Secure or Secured by Design accredited ‘lockable’ tool chest
Use visible security, i.e. Thatcham-approved steering locks, mesh grilles on load-bay windows and bulkhead, pedal boxes, Slamlocks/Hykee locks
Security mark all tools and high-value items using UV pens, DNA property marking or etching
Register all serial numbers on Secure Asset Register
Ensure vehicle software is up-to-date and ‘recalls’ completed – check with dealer
Check with your dealer what latest security measures can be retro-fitted to older vehicles. This can often cost less than your insurance excess.
Look into protecting ‘passive entry’ vehicles at Secured by Design
At home – consider investing in CCTV or security lights
Van Security
Park in busy, well-lit, secure car parks and locations. Look out for the Park Mark sign
Double check your sunroof, doors and windows are locked, even if you leave the vehicle for just a few minutes
Make sure your fob has done its job – double check the doors are locked
Don’t leave anything on display, not even small change
Don’t leave valuables in the glovebox – thieves will usually check there first
Hide cables and remove suction pad marks on your windscreen and dashboard
Always hold onto your keys – even car washes and garages have been found to copy keys
Bicycle/Motorbike Security
Always lock your bike and remove any accessories wherever possible
Loop chain locks through the bicycle frame and back wheel (front wheels are easily removed)
Secure your bike to an immovable object e.g. railings or lamp post
Use a disc lock to secure the front brake disc – stops your bike being wheeled away
Consider a grip lock designed to secure the brake and throttle controls
Two ‘Sold Secure’ D-locks are recommended. Find security-tested products at Sold Secure
Register your serial numbers (bike/accessories) at BikeRegister
Consider purchasing a bike cover – hiding your bike from view is a deterrent
Cracking the Carjacker
Park in busy, well-lit and secure car parks and locations
Be alert for suspicious activity – check around and inside your vehicle
Have your keys ready as you approach and lock your vehicle once inside
Don’t fully open your window if you need to speak to someone
Take your car keys – even if you’ve left a passenger in the car
In an emergency, sound the horn and dial 999
