Protect Your Vehicle

It doesn't matter what kind of car you drive, all vehicles are a potential target of theft. Nearly 100,000 cars and trucks are stolen in the state of Texas each year, and thousands more are burglarized. Almost half of all vehicles stolen had the keys left inside.

The Ford F150 and Chevy pick up truck top the list of top 10 most stolen vehicles in Texas. Regardless of year, make or model, every vehicle is a potential target for theft and burglary, especially when the keys are left inside. Following these tips will help you hold on to your prized car or truck.

Tips to Protect Your Vehicle

Hide your valuables. Items in the open make your car a bigger target.
Take your keys and never leave a second set in your vehicle. Twenty percent of stolen vehicles had keys inside them, making the theft even easier.
Lock your car. Almost half of all vehicles stolen were left unlocked.
Park in well-lit or heavily-trafficked areas. Thieves do not like witnesses. Find an attended lot or garage if possible.
Give parking attendants the ignition key only. Keep your trunk and glove box locked at all times. If possible, get separate keys for the ignition and the trunk and glove box
Never leave your car running unattended. Cars are often stolen at convenience stores, gas stations or when an owner leaves the vehicle running to warm it up.
Install an anti-theft device. Many insurance companies may give you a discount for certain anti-theft devices. Check with your agent for details.
http://www.txdot.gov/drivers_vehicles/consumer_protection/auto_theft/tips.htm