Alternative Car Security Methods

If you don’t have the need or the money to install an advanced car security system, there are alternative (and cheaper) methods. Although there are ways around these methods, they help to slow the thief and may frustrate amateur burglars to the point where they give up. You may want to use one or more of the following security methods.

Steering Wheel Locks: Steering wheel locks are visible through car windows and may deter burglars. It is a metal bar that extends to fit your steering wheel. Steering wheel locks are designed for all vehicles: sports cars, trucks, coupes, convertibles, etc. Once installed, it prevents the wheel from being turned. The lock is easy to put on and take off. After parking your car, you can easily slip it on and have one less thing to worry about. Steering wheel locks run from $25-$100.

Other Locks: Besides steering wheel locks, there are floorboard locks, gearshift locks, and hood locks. Floorboard locks prevent the gas or brake pedals from being used. They look like steering wheel locks, but they aren’t as visible through the car window. The gearshift lock prevents a thief from shifting the car’s transmission. Like the steering wheel lock, the gearshift lock is visible. Hood locks are also a good idea. This will prevent a burglar from stealing anything from your engine or from unplugging your battery.

Tire Boots: Tire boots prevent a burglar from making a quick getaway. Thieves will also notice the boot and may skip right over your car. Tire boots are similar to the boots used by police. They range between $80 and $200.

Kill Switch: Kill Switches are $10-$125 and are easy to install. A kill switch prevents power or fuel from reaching the engine. The switch is hidden within the car and must be flipped on before the car will start. However, the trick is to hide the switch well. Most burglars know that the switch will be within reaching distance of the driver’s seat.

VIN Etch: Another option is a VIN etching. A VIN etching puts the vehicle identification number directly on a window. This might not seem like much of a deterrent, but burglars try to find vehicles with easily removable VINs. VIN etching also helps in finding a stolen vehicle. Ranging from $20-$100, this is an inexpensive option for car security that you can install yourself.

Garage Security: One final alternative is keeping your garage secure. Extend your home security system to include your garage. Keep the garage doors closed, even if you’re making a quick trip down to the local store. Make sure windows and doors are locked, especially at night.