According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), one motor vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the US. This makes security upgrades a priority, especially if you travel a lot and frequently park on the street. Luckily, there are parts and accessories you can buy to keep your vehicle and its contents from being targeted by thieves.
Parts and Accessories to Replace or Upgrade to Deter Thieves
Upgrading your alarm siren, replacing a failed car door lock, mounting a dash camera, installing a wheel lock set, and getting a steering wheel lock are some of the ways you can improve vehicle security without spending an arm and a leg.
Alarm Siren
An alarm siren is a warning device that produces a loud sound to alert owners and deter thieves in the event of unauthorized entry. The siren itself is connected to sensors that transmit signals when your car is hit, the security system is breached, or the roll sensor is triggered.
It’s necessary to install alarms if you own an older unit that doesn’t have them or replace a faulty alarm siren when it starts malfunctioning. Alarm sirens are relatively affordable. You may spend anywhere between $30 and $300 when buying parts online.
Car Door Lock
A defective door lock is essentially an invitation for thieves. It’s one of the many reasons why you should consider getting an upgrade. Even if the factory locks are still intact, you can get new locks with added safety features.
While you can attempt to replace the defective lock, it may be better to take your car to an expert to ensure the replacement works. After all, something that involves your safety is worth spending money on. You have a lot of options as to where to take your vehicle.
You can visit a local auto repair shop or your car’s dealership for lock replacement services. Alternatively, you may hire a locksmith who specializes in automotive locks.
You can get replacement locks for as low as $10. Upgrading to keyless entry systems with more advanced safety features may cost you over $200.
Dash Camera
Having a dash camera in your vehicle can make it easy to determine which party is at fault during a crash. Aside from that, some cameras can record your vehicle’s surroundings even when parked. Video recordings can help you identify thieves in case someone attempts to break into your car.
The best part about dash cams is that they’re relatively affordable and easy to install. Considering its price, getting one should be one of your top priorities after buying a vehicle.
Wheel Lock Set
Wheel locks are specialized lug nuts that make it harder for thieves to remove and steal your wheels. These round locks have uniquely shaped slots with matching sockets that act as the key.
They prevent thieves from stealing your wheel, as typical lug nuts can be removed using only a lug wrench and a jack. Wheel locks have varying designs, making it close to impossible for thieves to unlock them.
Wheel locks are relatively inexpensive. A single lock costs around $35, while an entire set may cost you $120 or more.
Steering Wheel Lock
Steering wheel locks are devices that prevent a vehicle from being driven away. They have a bar you attach to the steering wheel, making it impossible to turn. You may choose from traditional bar locks, wheel-to-pedal locks, and locks that cover the entire steering wheel.
Catalytic Converter Shield
The catalytic converter contains precious metals that cost a lot of money when sold. This makes them a common target for thieves looking to make an easy profit.
Catalytic converter security shields are metal plates that cover the device, which can be linked to a customized alarm system. Installing one on your ride can help deter thieves from targeting your vehicle.
Other Ways To Upgrade Vehicle Security
Other ways to keep your vehicle secure include using trackers, tinting your windows, and protecting the catalytic converter.
Install Tracking Apps or Devices
Some mobile apps and devices use today’s ever-evolving technology to improve vehicle safety. These can help you keep track of your car’s location.
For example, some trackers plug into the OBD port and provide real-time tracking in addition to speed monitoring and diagnostics. This makes finding your car easier if it gets stolen, granted the thief doesn’t notice the tracker.
There are also compact devices you can attach anywhere on your car using a magnet, which is better than placing a tracker since you can hide it from sight.
Tint Your Windows
Tinted windows help protect your privacy, filter harmful UV rays, and keep your belongings hidden from prying eyes.
Standard window films usually cost between $200 and $400 to install, while high-performance ceramic tints range from $400 to $600.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Lastly, there are habits you can pick up to improve your car’s security. These include being more vigilant about your surroundings when parking in an unfamiliar location, choosing a well-lit parking slot, moving to a different location if suspicious individuals are loitering around the area, and not leaving any valuables inside your car.
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Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
