Theft of vehicles

Home office figures show that in 2007-08:

• Vehicle crime had dropped by more than 66% since it peaked in 1995.
• Nearly 1.5 million vehicle-related thefts were recorded in 2007-08. 
• Car-related crimes accounted for 13% of all recorded crime in England and Wales.
• Having security equipment on your car - especially an immobiliser - makes your vehicle more than ten times safer than a car with no security equipment.

Top tips to secure your vehicle

• Don’t leave your keys in the ignition when you leave the vehicle.
• Secure doors, windows, boot and sunroof when you leave your vehicle.
  
• Don’t leave items on display when you leave the car, especially your satellite navigation system. You should also try and remove the mount when your vehicle is unattended.  Clean any suction marks if visible from the window.
• If you have to leave items in the vehicle put them in the boot out of sight.
• Have your car windows marked/etched with the vehicle identification number (VIN).
• Never leave car documents or spare keys inside the vehicle.
• Always park in a well-lit location that is visible to passers by.