If you own a car, it can become at risk for theft, whether it’s in your driveway or in a parking lot at the mall. It is wise to make your car a less appealing target, and more of a challenge that will divert potential thieves so that they will keep moving on.

We want to pass on some tips from the National Insurance Crime Bureau that will help protect your vehicle:

  1. Common sense -- Always take your keys and lock the doors. Don't leave spare keys in the car or hide them outside because a thief will find them. Park in well-lit areas that have a lot of foot traffic, such as the end of a row and near a light. Roll up your windows completely and avoid leaving your car in public lots for a long time. If you park in a lot that has an attendant, just give them the ignition key. Keep valuables out of sight; purses, wallets, cell phones, clothes and even change are attractive and easy targets.
  2. Visible and audible devices -- You may want to consider having your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched into your windows. It makes your car less attractive to a thief who wants to send your car to a chop shop. A steering wheel lock is highly visible and will deter some thieves. Loud alarms can alert you and others that your vehicle is being tampered with. However, be careful in approaching your car if your alarm does go off.
  3. Immobilizing devices -- They actually shut off your car's electrical or fuel supply. So without a key, or knowing where the hidden switch is located, a thief can't drive your car away.
  4. Tracking devices -- drivers can now get a tracking device that allows police to track their car enabling them to recover it quickly.

A word to the wise: Observe what's going on; get descriptions of suspicious people and vehicles, including license plate numbers. If you catch a thief in the act, call 911 but don't approach the person. Your safety is more important than the car.

Looking for a trustworthy auto shop? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Phil's Service today about more safety tips or to schedule an appointment. Our auto center proudly serves residents in the community of Killeen, TX, and surrounding area.

Our trustworthy auto center offers four tips to help keep your car safe from theft. When needing a full-service auto shop, contact Phil's Service.

If you own a car, it can become at risk for theft, whether it’s in your driveway or in a parking lot at the mall. It is wise to make your car a less appealing target, and more of a challenge that will divert potential thieves so that they will keep moving on.

We want to pass on some tips from the National Insurance Crime Bureau that will help protect your vehicle:

  1. Common sense -- Always take your keys and lock the doors. Don't leave spare keys in the car or hide them outside because a thief will find them. Park in well-lit areas that have a lot of foot traffic, such as the end of a row and near a light. Roll up your windows completely and avoid leaving your car in public lots for a long time. If you park in a lot that has an attendant, just give them the ignition key. Keep valuables out of sight; purses, wallets, cell phones, clothes and even change are attractive and easy targets.
  2. Visible and audible devices -- You may want to consider having your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched into your windows. It makes your car less attractive to a thief who wants to send your car to a chop shop. A steering wheel lock is highly visible and will deter some thieves. Loud alarms can alert you and others that your vehicle is being tampered with. However, be careful in approaching your car if your alarm does go off.
  3. Immobilizing devices -- They actually shut off your car's electrical or fuel supply. So without a key, or knowing where the hidden switch is located, a thief can't drive your car away.
  4. Tracking devices -- drivers can now get a tracking device that allows police to track their car enabling them to recover it quickly.

A word to the wise: Observe what's going on; get descriptions of suspicious people and vehicles, including license plate numbers. If you catch a thief in the act, call 911 but don't approach the person. Your safety is more important than the car.

Looking for a trustworthy auto shop? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Phil's Service today about more safety tips or to schedule an appointment. Our auto center proudly serves residents in the community of Killeen, TX, and surrounding area.

Ron Phillips