Worried about your car being stolen? You’re not alone.
With technology becoming more advanced in our cars, thieves are finding more ways to steal our most prized possessions.
Find out why traditional security measures are becoming popular again, and what physical deterrents you can use when you’re home or away.
Why are traditional security measures making a comeback?
77% of cars have keyless entry and ignition systems according to our 2024 study, making them prime targets for relay theft (where the car is tricked into thinking the key fob is nearby).
This has driven 36% of car owners to turn to traditional security measures, which offer visible deterrents and make thieves think twice.
These old-school methods are not only effective but surprisingly affordable, too. Steering locks can be bought from as little as £20 for a basic lock, and bollards start from around £50.
Five top physical car theft prevention methods
Here are some affordable ways to keep your car safe.
1. Use a wheel clamp
More commonly used on campervans or cars parked for long periods of time, wheel clamps are easy to spot, which can put off thieves even approaching your car.
2. Install a removable bollard
Bollards are another great option. Like wheel clamps, they’re easily visible, which sends a clear signal to thieves that not only getting into your car will be difficult, but getting it out of your driveway will be too.
3. Get a steering wheel lock
An old-school but effective solution that physically stops your steering wheel from turning. You can pick up steering wheel locks from just £17. They’re also ideal for when you’re parking away from home.
4. Use a Faraday box/pouch
Faraday boxes and pouches are designed to block the radio signals your key fob emits. This makes it almost impossible for thieves to intercept these signals and using it to get into your car.
5. Set up a security camera
According to our research, 66% of drivers have some form of CCTV installed. While not completely traditional, cameras are still a great physical deterrent if your driveway or parked car is a little out of sight.
Free ways to keep your car safe
That’s right, these methods won’t cost a penny, and they could make all the difference.
Park smartly
Try to park within close proximity of your home, with a clear view from a window. And if you’re away, try to park in a well-lit area or under a street light. Thieves don’t want to be seen, and target cars that are isolated and hidden by the darkness.
Place your keys out of sight
When you’re not driving, try to keep your car keys away from the front door and away from view. Take your security up a notch by placing your keys in a Faraday box to block anyone trying to trick your car’s keyless entry system.
Leave documents at home
Keep important paperwork like your service book at home. These documents make it easier to sell your car in the unfortunate event it’s stolen. You also put yourself at risk of identity theft if any personal details are documented.
Key takeaways
It’s easy to see why old school security measures remain powerful tools for keeping our cars safe. They’re affordable and work best as deterrents when paired with modern solutions like CCTV.
Although sometimes, no matter how hard we try, we can still be the victims of car theft. If you’re a Direct Line policyholder and your car is stolen, you can start a claim online.
