ArcaMax

I know what you're thinking. "Unstealable"? That's a pretty bold claim. But hear me out. You might not be able to make your car completely theftproof, but you can make it such a pain to steal that thieves will take one look, roll their eyes and move on to an easier target.

LOCK YOUR DOORS AND WINDOWS (NO, SERIOUSLY)

This is where I hit you with the advice that makes you say, "duh." But you'd be surprised how many people leave their car doors unlocked or windows cracked, thinking they're just popping into the store for a minute. Thieves love this. They're not planning a heist -- they're opportunists. An unlocked door is an open invitation.

So, step one: Lock your car every time you leave it. Even in your own driveway. Even if you live in Mayberry. And while you're at it, roll up those windows.

PARK LIKE YOU MEAN IT

I get it. Sometimes you're just happy to find a parking spot. But where you park can make a world of difference. Thieves tend to avoid well-lit, busy areas where they might get caught in the act.

Park under streetlights or near security cameras if possible. If you're at the mall or a big parking lot, aim for areas close to entrances where there's a lot of foot traffic. Thieves want a quick in-and-out job, and the last thing they want is an audience.

If you've got a driveway, use it. Parking on the street just makes it easier for someone to drive off with your car.

USE A STEERING WHEEL LOCK

Remember those big clunky steering wheel locks from back in the day? Turns out, they're still a thing -- and for good reason. While today's car thieves are pretty tech savvy, a good old-fashioned steering wheel lock can still be a major deterrent.

Sure, it's not foolproof, but it does make your car more of a hassle to steal. Think of it as putting up a "Do Not Disturb" sign for car thieves. They see it, groan and move on. The Club is a popular option, and it's still kicking. It's not the coolest accessory for your car, but it works.

GET A VIN ETCHING

Want to give car thieves another reason to walk away? Vehicle identification number etching is a simple, inexpensive way to deter theft. Here's how it works: Your VIN is etched onto the windows. If a thief sees that, they know it's going to be a nightmare to resell your car or its parts.

Many local law enforcement agencies even offer VIN etching for free. It's a low-cost way to make your car just a little less attractive to the bad guys. Plus, it makes you look like a car-security pro without having to do much.

KEEP VALUABLES OUT OF SIGHT

Leaving your bag, phone, or -- heaven forbid -- your laptop in plain sight is like waving a neon sign that says, "Come break my window!" Even if the thieves aren't planning to steal your car, they might smash the window to grab what's inside, and now you're dealing with a break-in and missing stuff.

Take your valuables with you or stash them in the trunk. Out of sight, out of mind. And if you're like me and your car is basically a mobile office, consider investing in a car safe. Yes, it's a thing.

INSTALL A KILL SWITCH

OK, now we're getting into a bit more of the James Bond territory, but hear me out. A kill switch is a hidden device that prevents your car from starting unless it's flipped. It's a simple antitheft device that can seriously slow down a thief.

Most thieves don't want to stick around trying to figure out why the car won't start. They want in and out fast. A kill switch is a sneaky way to add an extra layer of protection, and it's not as expensive as you might think. You can have one installed at your local mechanic. Or, if you're handy, do it yourself. Just make sure to hide it well!

USE GPS TRACKERS

Let's say the worst happens, and despite all your best efforts, your car still gets stolen. This is where a GPS tracker comes in. It won't prevent theft, but it will give you a fighting chance to get your car back. Some insurance companies even offer discounts if you install one.

A GPS tracker lets you (or the police) locate your car in real time, which could lead to a faster recovery. Look into brands like LoJack or Trackimo, which are reliable and easy to use. Plus, knowing you can track your car adds a little peace of mind.

TRUST YOUR GUT

Last but not least, trust your instincts. If something feels off -- like that sketchy parking lot or the person lurking nearby -- don't ignore it. It's better to be a little paranoid than to later wish you had been.

At the end of the day, no car is completely unstealable, but by following these simple steps, you can make yours a lot harder to take. Think of it like home security for your ride -- it's all about making your car a less appealing target.

========

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, "Ask Mary." This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book "Debt-Proof Living."

Copyright 2024 Creators Syndicate Inc.