Tips to Prevent Car Theft and Break-Ins in Georgia

Tips to Prevent Car Theft and Break-Ins in Georgia

Having your car broken into or stolen can be a huge hassle and expense. As a Georgia resident, it’s important to take steps to prevent car theft and break-ins. Here are some tips to help keep your car safe:

Always Lock Your Car

This may seem obvious, but many car break-ins happen simply because the car was left unlocked. Get into the habit of checking that your doors are locked before walking away from your car, even if you’re just running into the house or store for a minute. Locking your car doors is the #1 way to prevent break-ins.

Close All Windows

Leaving your windows cracked open is just asking for trouble. Make sure all windows are rolled up completely before leaving your car. Consider getting tinted windows which make it harder for potential thieves to see what’s inside your car.

Hide Valuables

Don’t tempt thieves by leaving valuables like laptops, purses, or shopping bags visible in your car. Keep valuables out of sight, like in your trunk or under seats. If possible, take them with you when leaving your car. Thieves often break in just to grab visible items left behind.

Park in Well-Lit Areas

When running errands, try to park in well-lit areas like under street lamps or near store entrances. Thieves prefer to break into cars under the cover of darkness, so parking in bright areas can deter them. Avoid parking in isolated, dimly lit parking lots or streets if you can.

Get a Car Alarm

A car alarm system can alert you and others if someone is trying to break in. The noise may scare away thieves before they can do any damage. Audible alarms are especially effective deterrents in public areas. Consider getting an alarm with an ignition kill switch to prevent hotwiring.

Install Anti-Theft Devices

There are a variety of anti-theft devices available like steering wheel locks, brake locks, and wheel boots. These make it harder for thieves to drive off with your car or remove parts like wheels. Your local auto parts store can recommend the best devices to install.

Don’t Leave the Car Running Unattended

It can be tempting to leave your car running when making a quick stop, but this makes stealing your car way too easy. Turn off the engine and take the keys with you anytime you leave your car. Don’t make the mistake of leaving it idling unattended.

Get a Tracking Device

A GPS tracking device can help police locate your car if it gets stolen. Tracking devices are often included with comprehensive auto insurance plans. There are also affordable aftermarket tracking devices you can purchase and install yourself.

Keep Your Keys Safe

Take your keys with you when leaving your car, even at home. Don’t leave spare keys inside the car where thieves can find them. Keep your keys secure and don’t attach your address to your keychain where thieves can find it.

Park in Your Garage

When parking at home, use your garage if you have one. Keep the garage door shut and locked when not in use. Parking in a closed garage keeps your car out of sight and blocks access for thieves.

Consider a Steering Wheel Lock

A steering wheel lock attaches to your steering wheel and prevents it from turning. This simple deterrent makes it much harder for thieves to steer and drive off with your car. Just the sight of a steering wheel lock may convince thieves to move on.

Install a Kill Switch

Kill switches cut power to the fuel pump or ignition when activated. They prevent hotwiring and driving off with your car. Ask your mechanic about installing an inexpensive hidden kill switch to disable your car if stolen.

Don’t Leave the Title in Your Car

Never leave your vehicle title or registration in your glove compartment. If thieves find these documents, it makes it much easier for them to sell or chop your car. Keep titles and registration at home in a safe place.

Engrave Windows

Etching your car’s VIN number on the windows can deter thieves who intend to part out stolen cars. Specific window etching kits can help prove ownership if parts from your car show up at chop shops.

Disable Onboard Navigation

If your car has a built-in GPS navigation system, be sure to disable it when not in use. Left on, it can help thieves locate your home address if your car is stolen. Turn it off when not needed.

Photograph Your Car

Take photos of your car and record details like the VIN number, year, make, model, license plate, and any identifying features. If your car is stolen, this documentation will help police identify it.

Report Suspicious Activity

Call the police if you notice people checking car door handles, looking in windows, or testing locks in parking lots. Reporting suspicious activity can help catch thieves staking out cars to steal.

Check Your Car Regularly

Make a habit of inspecting your car often for signs of break-in attempts like scratches around locks or jimmied doors. Addressing any issues quickly can prevent a successful break-in.

Consider Comprehensive Insurance

Make sure your auto insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage in case your car is stolen. Comprehensive insurance can help pay for repairs or replacement if your car is damaged or stolen.

Park Off-Street When Possible

Park in your driveway or garage instead of on the street when at home. Parked cars are more vulnerable to theft and break-ins overnight. Park off-street and ideally behind locked gates if you can.

Avoid Bumper Stickers

Refrain from using bumper stickers that indicate you may have valuables inside your car, like college or tech company stickers. Avoid tempting thieves by advertising items worth stealing.

Keep Your Keys on You

At gas stations, restaurants, shops, and anywhere you walk away from your car, take your keys with you. Don’t leave them in the car where someone could grab them and take off.

Install a Car Locator

Consider getting a small Bluetooth tag or RFID sticker to attach hidden inside your car. If your car is stolen, you can use a smartphone app to track the locator device’s movements in real time.

The Bottom Line

Preventing car theft and break-ins requires vigilance. But taking the right precautions can help deter criminals and protect your vehicle. Always lock up, park smart, and take valuables with you. And if you’re ever the victim of auto theft, contact the police right away.

With some simple diligence, Georgia drivers can hold onto their rides. Don’t become an easy target! Use these tips to steer clear of car thieves and stay on the road.