Vehicle Safety

Most vehicle crime is opportunistic and therefore preventable. By following some straightforward advice, and working together, we can ensure that this type of crime keeps falling.

We've already had success in reducing vehicle crime - in recent years vehicle crime in the UK has been steadily falling by 51% since 1997. However, there were some 1.7 million vehicle related thefts during 2005-06. (Source: Crime in England and Wales 2005-06).

Secure Your Motor

The Government have spread the 'Secure Your Motor' message. The Secure your Motor campaign aims to help you avoid becoming the victim of car crime by alerting you to the danger of opportunistic car thieves. Adverts have run on TV, radio and the internet, with posters at petrol pump nozzles and parking meters.

Keep it Hidden

If a car park attendant, street warden or Police Community Support Officer sees a car in a public place with anything left on view, the vehicle's owner is sent a letter and leaflet offering advice on how to outsmart the criminal. It's best never to leave anything on view in your car, but if you have to, lock it in the boot where it is out of sight.

Letting You Know

Talking to voluntary and community groups such as your local Neighbourhood watch. We particularly want to draw attention to the information available on the internet to help groups relay car crime prevention messages in their neighbourhoods.

For more information, see the Crime Reduction website

The Vehicles (Crime) Act 2001

The Act introduced the registration of motor salvage dealers and number plate suppliers, together with the Vehicle Identity Check scheme. These measures will make it harder for thieves to sell on stolen vehicles.

Follow our vehicle safety information, and make sure you don't become a statistic.

Some of the advice may sound obvious, but it could make all the difference if you follow it consistently.

Read our top ten tips to find out more.

Don't leave items on display Never leave anything on display when you leave your vehicle. Even an old coat or a plastic bag can tempt a thief.
Use immobilisers Electronic engine immobilisers prevent your vehicle from starting and are the best way to stop thieves. You should only buy security devices or services that are approved by either Thatcham (Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre 0870 550 2006, Thatcham) or by Sold Secure (01327 264 687). They should be professionally fitted - either by your car dealer or by an installer approved by the Vehicle Systems Installation Board.
Park safely When parking at home, always use your garage if you have one, and lock both your vehicle and your garage. If you don't have a garage, try to park in a well-lit, open place.
Use Park Mark® car parks When parking outside, always try and park your car in an attended car park. Try to look for a public car park which is part of the police approved Safer Parking scheme and displays the Park Mark® brand.
Buy a steering wheel lock Use a steering wheel lock every time you leave your vehicle.
Get an alarm fitted Alarms can deter thieves not only from stealing your vehicle, but also from taking items from it. You can get more information about alarms, immobilisers and other security devices by phoning the Vehicle Security National Helpline on 0870 5502006 or the Sold Secure Helpline on 01327 264687.
Secure your wheels Locking wheel nuts are cheap, easy to fit and stop thieves from taking your wheels.
Etch your vehicle identification number onto surfaces Have your vehicle registration number or the last seven digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched onto all windows, both windscreens and your headlamps.
Mark your equipment Mark all your equipment, like your car stereo, with your vehicle registration number.
Check before buying a used vehicle Before buying, check whether the car you are interested in has been reported stolen, seriously damaged or is still subject to finance. More information on how to check can be found on the Directgov website.