Tips to boost your car’s security & prevent theft

May 27 2025

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Your car is likely one of the most expensive things you own, and for a lot of people they’re massively important; they get you to work, school, the supermarket, and more. Because of their value, cars are frequent targets for theft, so it’s important to take precautions to keep them safe.  
 

In 2023, Region Security Guarding reported that over 106,000 vehicles were stolen in the UK, a huge rise from the 72,000 in 2022. This increase in car thefts highlights the importance of taking steps to prevent this from happening to yourself.  

We’ve compiled a list of tips you should consider to help prevent car theft and increase your car’s overall security. If you’re also interested in taking your home’s security to the next level, the experts at ADT have you covered.

Which cars are targeted the most by thieves?

Thieves often go for high-value or highly sought-after vehicles. DVLA data for 2023 revealed that the most frequently stolen cars were the Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. 

Luxury vehicles like BMWs or the Mercedes-Benz C Class are also common targets, primarily due to their value and the demand for parts. 

Car security tips

Lock your car

Although it should go without saying, sometimes we need a reminder; first and foremost, always remember to lock your car and check that it’s locked! 

Never leave your car running

Leaving your car running, even for a few minutes, can massively increase the chances of it being stolen. Opportunistic thieves can spot the running car and quickly drive off with the vehicle, and you may even get a fine for leaving it on. It’s also unlikely your insurance will cover you if you’ve left the car unattended while it’s running. 

New cars don’t always need to ‘warm up’ like older ones do, so even on the mornings when it’s tempting because of the frost, it’s never a good idea to do this. 

Use your garage

If you have a garage, it’s worth using it. It might mean having a big clear out to make room for your car, but garages provide a physical barrier between your car and potential thieves, which significantly reduces the chance of theft or even vandalism.  

Thieves tend to look for easy targets, so a car parked in a garage is more likely to be ignored in favour of one left out in the open. Keeping your garage well-lit and ensuring the door is locked can further boost car security. 

Park in the light

Sometimes, parking on the street is unavoidable for a lot of us. If this is the case, make sure to choose a spot with good visibility, such as under or near streetlights. These tactics can effectively deter criminals, who generally act when it’s dark. Well-lit areas also make it harder for thieves to go unnoticed, and they are less likely to attempt breaking into your vehicle if there’s a higher chance of being seen.  

As well as under streetlights, you could also consider parking near busy roads, main entrances, or places with people around where potential thieves would stand out. If possible, positioning your car near surveillance cameras or homes with visible security systems can also make your vehicle a less attractive target. 

Hide valuables

After a long day, it’s easy to forget items like sunglasses, phones, or even your wallet in the car. Any item in sight can tempt opportunistic thieves, and loose change, bags, or electronic devices like SAT NAVs on display could lead to a smashed window or break-in. This can occur even if the intent isn’t to steal the vehicle itself, so it’s essential that you’re proactive in securing any belongings. 

Try to make a habit of removing (or hiding) all valuable items whenever you leave your car. For added security, lock your glove compartment to protect any essential items you may need to leave behind, and store your car’s documents at home rather than in it; if the car is stolen, the thief can’t legitimately sell it. 

Use security devices

Regardless of whether your car is parked in a garage, on the driveway or on the street, adding physical security devices can help prevent car theft. A steering wheel, gearstick or brake lock are good options, acting as a visible deterrent and physical barrier. Most thieves look for easy and fast opportunities, so the additional time it would take to remove such a device often isn’t worth the risk.  

These locks are particularly effective because they cannot be easily disabled through electronic means like key fob hacking. Car alarms and immobilizers can work in tandem with these devices, serving as a holistic solution to theft. 

Our outdoor cameras are also a handy deterrent. If someone is detected in its field-of-view, you’ll receive a notification to your phone, tablet or computer, at which point you can trigger the Perimeter Guard feature to scare them off with a high-pitched noise. 

Keep track of your keys

The advanced features of newer cars like keyless entry/start means that the easiest way for them to be stolen is often through the key’s signal. Thieves have become more sophisticated, and many use techniques such as relay attacks to access vehicles. A relay attack is when thieves use devices to extend the reach of a key signal to start the car, all without having the physical key to hand.  

To prevent this, keep your keys out of reach of doors and windows. For added peace of mind, consider using a lockbox to store your keys or invest in a signal-blocking pouch (also known as a Faraday pouch) to protect keyless entry systems from relay attacks. These pouches are lined with metal or other signal-blocking materials that prevent the key’s signal from being intercepted. 

Check your key fob

Some key fobs have a built-in feature that turns off the signal when not in motion, so check your car’s manual to see if this is an option. The idea is that when your key fob is stored away, the fob detects that it’s not moving and subsequently stops transmitting a signal. Thieves trying to attempt a relay attack are unlikely to have much luck with this feature in action. 

Tracking devices

In the unfortunate event that your car is stolen, a tracking device could massively increase the chances of recovering it. These devices enable the vehicle to be located via GPS or other tracking systems, and they can be hidden in various parts of the car so thieves can’t find and get rid of them. Most tracking systems are compatible with apps or services that allow you to monitor your car’s location in real-time. 

As you’ve seen, increasing your car’s security and preventing theft requires a mix of physical deterrents, vigilance and tech. Simple actions like parking in a well-lit area or using a garage can have a significant impact, and solutions like tracking devices and signal-blocking pouches offer an additional layer of protection. By implementing these tips, you’ll not only safeguard your vehicle but also gain some peace of mind. 
 

The amount of car thefts also differs up and down the country, so it’s worth checking if you’re in a higher risk area, which you can do here.