12

Jun
2014

Older Vehicles: An Easy Target for Theft

June 12th, 2014 | by admin admin | in Security Advice |    0   

Do you own an older vehicle?

Did you know that it has a greater chance of being stolen or broken into than a newer vehicle?

Auto thieves look for an easy target. Older vehicles are ideal targets because most of them do not have built-in anti-theft devices. It has been the law only since 2007 that all new cars, vans, light trucks and SUVs built in Canada must have an anti-theft engine immobilizer. So, whether it’s your favorite 10-year-old imported sedan or your university kid’s 25-year-old domestic pick-up truck, both of your vehicles are at high risk of being stolen or broken into.

According to ICBC, the top 10 stolen vehicles in B.C. in 2013 were:

1. Ford F Series*

2. Honda Civic

3. Honda Accord

4. Chrysler (Dodge/Plymouth) Ram

5. Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra pickup

6. Chrysler (Dodge/Plymouth) Caravan/Voyager

7. Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee

8. Ford Econoline E350/E450

9. Acura Integra

10. Toyota Corolla

* Includes Ford F150, F250, F350, F450, F550, F650, F750

The top 10 items stolen from vehicles:**

1. Smartphones
2. Personal electronics — tablets, laptops, iPods, GPS
3. Work tools
4. Credit cards and identification
5. Stereo equipment
6. Cash and change
7. Car parts and accessories
8. Garage door openers
9. Sunglasses
10. Keys

** As reported by IMPACT Integrated Municipal Provincial Auto Crime Team.

Here are five ways to prevent your vehicle from being stolen or being broken into:

1. Ask your mechanic to install an electronic immobilizer. It’s hard wired into the vehicle to shut down the starter, ignition and/or fuel system. To start the engine, you need a key or electronic device.
2. Use an anti-theft device. Even a steering wheel lock helps because it’s a visual deterrent.
3. Keep your vehicle empty of any personal items or packages, especially your wallet, any electronics and your garage door opener.
4. Lock your vehicle. Folks who live in smaller Lower Mainland communities often do not lock their vehicle. Don’t be surprised when your wallet, cell phone or golf bag is stolen overnight while your vehicle is parked in your driveway. An unlocked vehicle is a no-brainer for a thief.
5. Park in well-lit areas or on a busy street. Parking on a quiet, dark street a few blocks from pedestrian and street traffic is asking for trouble.

Is there any good news?

Yes! Stolen vehicle claims are down 75 per cent from 2003 to 2013 and vehicle break-in claims have declined by 68 per cent.

Source: ICBC

Note: This blog discusses general safety and security topics. It is not intended to provide comprehensive advice or guidance. In all matters of personal safety and security, we encourage readers to research topics in depth and consult a security professional about specific concerns.

Radius Security Vancouver, West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Ladner, Delta, Tsawwassen