Secure thinking

Taking responsibility for maintaining your car security is vital and if anything is stolen, Direct Line can ensure you have adequate insurance protection for your car, to give you extra peace of mind

Remember, outwitting car criminals is a joint effort between you and your car...

Upgrade security on current vehicles

Perhaps the single biggest reason for the drop in thefts of newer cars, in recent years, is the standard fitting of alarms and immobilisers to all new vehicles. The Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre (MIRRC) – or Thatcham – recommends a category one system, which switches on automatically when you leave the car, has an ‘anti-scan’ key-code system and a battery backed-up siren.

For details of other approved car security systems call 0870 550 2006 or visit the Thatcham website. The security features on your car are a major factor when applying for any car insurance quote.

Get a security rating on new cars

If you’re buying a new car, check the type of alarm installed and if it has a lockable petrol cap and locking wheel nuts as standard. Most manufacturers now also bond Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plates to the dashboard of cars to help trace it if it is stolen. Plus check out Thatcham’s New Vehicle Security Rating (NVSR) scheme, which rates all new cars in the UK in the categories of ‘Theft Of’ and ‘Theft From’.

With our comprehensive car insurance, Direct Line offers an optional hire car for a small extra premium, in case your car is stolen or written off.

Increase your personal vigilance

Don’t give car thieves an easy ride. Get a stereo you can remove and take with you. Invest in a steering wheel or handbrake lock, for as little as £20. Park in a busy, well-lit place or in secure parking. Lock doors and close windows when leaving the car or making slow progress in traffic – it only takes a few seconds at a red traffic light for a thief to spot an opportunity. Never leave keys in the car, and, the golden rule; don’t leave possessions in the car – especially valuables. For more ways to wise up on car security, visit the Home Office website and saferparking.com.

If your car is broken into, Direct Line car insurance includes a 24-hour Windscreen Helpline, plus Comprehensive Cover also includes a Windscreen Repair service. Investing in Direct Line Personal Possessions and Accidental Damage cover as part of your home insurance is also wise if you need to protect valuables in your car that are worth more than £100.

Car crime accounts for around a fifth of all recorded crimes, but many of these crimes could be prevented. By following these tips and taking time to think about car security, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

• When parking your car at home, always use a garage, if you have one. Lock both your car and your garage. If you don't have a garage, where possible, always park in a well-lit, open place
• Avoid leaving anything on display in your car. Putting valuables in the glove box or under the seat is not a good idea, thieves know the hiding places, take them with you or lock them in your boot
• When out and about, always try and park your car in an attended car park. Some public car parks are part of the police-approved Safer Parking scheme
• Have your car registration number or the last 7 digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched onto all windows, both windscreens and your headlamps
• Whenever you leave your car, always take the ignition key with you. Never pop back into the house, leaving the engine running on a cold winter's morning for example
• At home, never leave your car keys, or house keys, near a door or window. Thieves can use a fishing rod or magnet on a stick to get at them through the letterbox