5 Ways to Secure your Car from Theft

In 2024 alone, 61,343 cars were reported as stolen across the UK, though this is down 6% from last year, it’s twice as many from 2015.

In the UK, a car is stolen every 10 minutes. Around 19% of drivers have had their car stolen, and over 34% have experienced a break-in. We’ve put together our top 5 tips for you to keep your keep your car safe and help prevent it from being stolen.

1.    Lock Your Car

What people don’t know is that 44% of cars were broken into via an unlocked door.

Just by locking your vehicle, you can greatly reduce the possibility of being the target of opportunity. In the colder months, some people leave their car running to de-ice it or warm it up, not only is this against the law, you’re leaving yourself vulnerable to theft.

Top Tip: Secure all sunroofs and windows when locking your car, this help prevents ‘fishing’, where a thief will use their hands or a bent coat hanger to get inside.

2.    Keep your keys safe

Always store your car keys out of sight and away from doors or windows to prevent “fishing” thefts.

If you have a keyless car, be aware of relay theft—where thieves use devices to capture and boost your key fob's signal, tricking your car into unlocking and starting. They don’t need to be inside your home—just nearby.

To protect against this, consider using a Faraday bag, which blocks your key’s signal when not in use. It’s a simple way to reduce your risk and give you peace of mind.

3.    Park Safely

80% of car crime occurs during the evening or at night, so be sure to park in well-lit areas and, where possible, with CCTV or barriers which will add an extra layer of security.

Thieves often go for poorly lit and secluded spots with reduced visibility and can target the vehicle.

A garage is the most secure way of protecting your car when left unattended with motion-sensitive lights to deter thieves.

4.    Hide valuables

Hide any valuables, whether you take them with you or store them in the trunk. Visible items can attract intruders, so be mindful even when parking at home. If you must leave electronics in the car, consider using a dash cam that records when the engine is off. This can capture incidents and act as a deterrent, as no thief wants to be recorded.

5.    Invest in Security Devices

A standard car immobiliser stops the engine from starting without the correct key or fob by communicating with the Engine Control Unit (ECU). While effective, these systems can still be vulnerable to key cloning and relay attacks.

A ghost immobiliser takes car security a step further. Instead of relying on signals or keys, it requires a unique PIN code, entered using the car’s existing buttons (like those on the steering wheel or dashboard), to start the engine. It doesn’t emit any radio signals, making it nearly impossible for thieves to detect or hack. Most systems also include an override fob and can be managed via a smartphone app.

Key Benefits:

• Hidden and undetectable to thieves

• Customisable PIN entry using factory buttons

• Works with most modern vehicles

• Easy to install and user-friendly

Potential Downsides:

• Forgetting your PIN can lock you out temporarily

• Incorrect installation may cause electronic issues

• Skilled thieves may still attempt to bypass it with advanced tools

Despite a few drawbacks, ghost immobilisers offer a discreet and powerful layer of protection—especially for high-value or keyless-entry vehicles.