Car security advice

Top 10 Do's and Don'ts to help beat the car thief

We've compiled the top security tips from the leading organisations to protect your vehicle:

Top 10 Do's

Fit an electronic engine immobiliser to prevent your car starting without keys

Have a VSIB professionally fitted car security alarm installed

Fit locking wheel nuts to prevent theft of wheels

Have the last 7 digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or your car registration number etched onto all windows, and both front and rear screens. Have this registered with the DVLA for tracking purposes

Security mark your car equipment, car radio, CD players with your VIN, registration number or post code. Consider fitting a stereo system with a removable front panel and take it with you when you leave the car so that thieves aren't tempted

Use a doorlock guard to protect locks from being picked by screwdrivers or tools used to remove the entire lock to gain entry into a car

Install an approved tracking system enabling a company to monitor a car's location, speed and direction from a central control centre. Some systems also work over the mobile phone network, so that they can be turned on/off with a phone, and if your car is moving when it shouldn't' be, it will actually call you

Consider glazing windows to make them harder to break. They are also considered good for safety as they're less likely to shatter during an accident

Fit theft resistant number plates. Official data shows that around 33,000 number plates were stolen in 2005. Plate can be used to change the identity of stolen cars so they can be sold and even used for evading congestion charges, parking and speeding fines