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You may not be able to keep the thieves from getting your car. Usually, if he really wants one, he'll generally find a way. But there are some things you can do to minimize your risk of being hit that don't involve driving around for life in an old clunker no one else would want.

Some are simple common sense rules. Others you may not have thought of. Here's the list:

Always roll up your vehicle's windows, lock the doors and pocket the key. Don't leave a spare hidden anywhere on the car itself. No matter how clever you think you are, thieves know all your hiding places.

Lock your gas tank cap.

Keep your vehicle registration certificate and proof of insurance on you at all times. Leaving it in your glove compartment or visor means it can be easily taken and used to prove someone else owns the vehicle.

Never leave valuable objects or packages in full view. Put them in the trunk.

Always park your vehicle in a well-lighted spot.

Prevent thieves from towing your vehicle by parking with your wheels turned sharply and the emergency brake on.

Give only your ignition key to a parking lot attendant. Keep your other keys with you.

If you have a garage, use it and lock the door as well as your vehicle.

Be cautious of "too good to be true" offers to buy a vehicle. Don't become a victim of fraud.

Inform police of any activities or vehicles that look suspicious to you.

Install an effective theft deterrent system, which will delay and discourage thieves.An electronic immobilizer, in which only a specific key can turn on the ignition, is increasingly becoming a standard in most new vehicles, and many insurance companies will give you a break on your rates if you have one.

Don't use a remote-starter system. It may be more comfortable in the winter, but it's a temptation thieves can't resist. And it can turn your warm car into a hot one.

Have the windows and major components of your vehicle etched.

Hide your business card or your home address under the floormats and seats and inside the doors. If the VIN number is changed, this could be the evidence police need to prove it's yours.

Keep all the records of your vehicle in a safe place and make sure you record the serial number of your car somewhere else.


Here's a list of some other after-market items you can purchase to further secure your wheels:

IGNITION KILL SWITCH: toggle switch spliced into ignition that disables your vehicle

FUEL KILL SWITCH: switch spliced into fuel system wiring that stops fuel supply

STEERING WHEEL LOCK: stops the steering wheel from turning

GEARSHIFT LOCK: disables shifting transmission

TIRE/WHEEL LOCKS: tool wraps around tires/wheels to immobilize your car

HOOD LOCK: stops anyone from opening hood to your engine area

STEERING COLUMNS COLLAR: protects steering column from ignition entry

ELECTRONIC ALARMS: those with "kill "switches are most effective

VEHICLE TRACKING SYSTEM: transmitter in the vehicle allows GPS tracking.

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