The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) and law enforcement recommend a layered approach to preventing auto theft.

1. Use Common Sense

• Park in well-lit areas.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Report anything suspicious and avoid suspicious looking people.
• Lock your doors.
• Close your windows completely.
• Take your keys out of the car.
• Never leave your car running unattended - not even for a minute.
• Remove all items from the car or hide them from view.

2. Visible or Audible Anti-Theft Devices

• Audible alarm system
• Steering wheel locks
• Steering column collars
• Theft deterrent decals
• Wheel locks
• Window/VIN etching

3. Vehicle immobilizer

• Smart keys have computer chips that must be present to start the car.
• Fuse cut-offs
• Kill-switches
• Starter, ignition and fuel disablers

4. Tracking system

• Install a tracking system that alerts police or a monitoring service when the vehicle is reported stolen.

5. Avoid carjacking

• Drive with windows rolled up and doors locked.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• When stopped at a signal, leave enough space between you and the next car to be able to drive away if approached.
• Do not enter your car if someone is loitering. Seek help.
• Be alert at drive-up ATM’s.
• If all else fails, don’t resist. Your life is more important.