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We want to help look after your vehicle and prevent vehicle crime.
One deterrent can be bypassed—but multiple measures usually aren’t worth the risk for thieves.
Here are 7 things to consider:
 1. Locking & Key Safety (Most important)
- Always lock your vehicle—even if just popping back indoors briefly.
- Keep keys out of sight and away from doors/windows (especially in hallways).
- Use a Faraday pouch for keyless entry fobs to block signal relay attacks.
- Never leave spare keys in or on the vehicle (even hidden).
 Keyless theft (“relay attack”) is still one of the most common methods.
 2. Parking Choices
- Park in well-lit, busy areas whenever possible.
- At home:
- Use a garage if you have one.
- If not, park close to your house and under lighting or CCTV.
- Turn wheels toward the kerb to make towing harder.
 3. Physical Security Devices
Thieves often avoid vehicles with visible deterrents:
- Steering wheel lock - might seem like something of the past but this is highly recommended!
- Wheel clamps
- OBD port lock/cover (prevents electronic reprogramming)
- Pedal locks
Visible security = higher effort → thieves move on.
 4. Electronic Protection
- Install a tracker/immobiliser (Thatcham-approved ideal).
- Check if your car allows:
- Disable keyless entry
- Software updates
- Use apps like Find My Car / GPS tracking where available.
 5. Remove Temptation
- Don’t leave:
- Bags, tools, laptops, phones
- Sat nav mounts (they signal valuables)
- Even loose change can trigger opportunistic theft.
 6. Home Security Link
Vehicle theft often starts with house entry:
- Lock doors/windows consistently
- Install:
- Motion lights
- Doorbell cameras / CCTV
- Consider alarm systems
 7. Vehicle-Specific Precautions
- Vans:
- Remove tools overnight OR install secure tool safes
- Keyless premium cars (e.g., BMW, Audi, Land Rover):
- Strongly consider secondary immobiliser or steering lock
 Quick “Daily Routine” Checklist
- Lock vehicle
- Keys out of sight & in Faraday pouch
- No valuables visible
- Parked smartly
- Steering lock on (if higher risk)
Remember, thieves need either the original car keys or access to your keyless signal to steal your vehicle. If this means committing a burglary to obtain the keys, they will, so make sure you follow our advice on keeping your home safe by visiting - Crime prevention advice | Cheshire Constabulary.
We hope this information helps.
Kind regards,
Crime Prevention Team
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