Securing your car is crucial especially when it is left without attendance like in a parking lot. There are various effective rules in place in the UAE to mitigate car theft. In addition to these rules, you can practice precautionary measures to secure your car in a parking area. These vary from parking in the right spot to using safety features and locks.
Here are a few useful tips to help you secure your parked car.
Tips to secure your car in a parking lot
Following are essential tips for car security in a parking lot, across the UAE and beyond::
1. Never park your car in a secluded spot
Many times car security is compromised at secluded spots. Make sure to follow these pointers when parking your car in public:
- Park your car in a space that is under constant surveillance to secure it and can be recovered easily if stolen
- Park with other vehicles because the owner of neighbouring cars can come at any time – a factor that deters potential thieves. In case of indoor parking, choose secure garages or spaces that are well-lit
2. Do not leave valuables in a parked car
Not all robberies in a parking lot are of the car itself. If valuable items are lying in a parked car visible to anyone, the chances of robberies will increase. Make sure none of your precious items are visible from the outside of your parked car, else it will be an open invitation to the thieves to rob your car.
From laptops to headphones and cash to jewelry, no item should be visible to increase the robber’s intent.
3. Make sure your car looks protected enough
Another tip to deter potential car thieves is to ensure your car looks protected enough. Always lock and double-check your car door and windows when leaving it parked. Make sure you practice caution even if you are to leave the car unattended for a few minutes such as when filling gas at the station or just need to grab an item or two from a store.
More importantly, never leave your keys in the ignition. No matter how secure you deem the area and for how short time you will be away. Since burglars now use advanced tools, car burglaries can be done in a matter of seconds.
4. Keep the security alarms in your car active
Car alarms are the best tool to ensure vehicle safety. Nothing will discourage the car burglars more than getting noticed by a car siren. Most car alarms start ringing automatically if unusual activity is detected around the car.
5. Use VIN etching to secure your car
Get your VIN etched on your car windows or glass pane. This is a budget friendly anti-theft measure. VIN is a unique car identification number that you can find on mulkiya (the registration card) of your car, registered in the UAE.
A car that has VIN etched on it indicates that it is well-protected. Its windows cannot be sold nor can the car be disposed of.
6. Install different car safety devices
You can increase the safety of your parked car with several safety devices. The most common and effective ones are:
- Car Tracking Systems
Car tracking systems have pre-installed transmitters like VHF tracking devices or GPS that help locate a stolen car. These trackers locate the vehicles giving their exact location even if the car is hidden underground. You can find the top car tracking devices in the UAE to ensure the safety of your cars in parking lots.
- Car Immobilizers
Car immobilizers are anti-theft electronic devices that switch off the main components of the vehicle in case of attempted robbery. For example, the fuel system and the ignition of a car stops working if the car immobilizer is activated.
While most modern cars come with car immobilizers installed in them, you can get it installed separately if you have an older car model.
- Steering wheel lock
Steering wheel lock is another popular and commonly used anti-theft device. These locks clamp the steering wheels together and restrict their movement.
FAQs
Which is the best anti-theft device for cars?
There are various anti-theft devices for cars available in the market in addition to those already installed in modern vehicles. Some of the most popular ones are steering wheel lock, mini GPS tracker and car alarm security.
Can an anti-theft system stop a car from starting?
Yes, anti-theft systems use electrical circuits to prevent the power flow. This will prevent the car from starting.
These are a few ways to secure your car in a parking lot. Follow these tips and stay vigilant to ensure your car safety. Always report a car robbery immediately. To make your car more secure, comfortable and up to date, you can have a look at these car accessories for sale.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s best auto blog for more information on car parts and accessories, driving tips, market trends and more.
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