It doesn’t matter what kind of car you drive; all vehicles are a potential target of theft. In the state of Texas over 65,000 cars and trucks are stolen and almost 200,000 are burglarized each year. Many jurisdictions report that keys left inside, and doors unlocked are major factors in stolen and burglarized vehicles.

Protecting Your Vehicle

Keep Your Valuables and Possessions Safe

Don’t leave anything on display in your car. Even items in the back seat can be a temptation for someone to “smash and grab.” Thieves steal first and think about value later. Thieves will smash a car window just to look inside a bag or box to see if it contains anything of value.

Never leave any of the following on display in your car, as they are all particularly attractive to car thieves:

• Cell phones,
• GPS receivers,
• laptops and iPods (or any other type of easy to sell electronics)
• Checkbooks, credit cards and debit cards Cash (including loose change in the ashtray)
• Vehicle registration documents (these should always be carried on your person)
• Private mail (especially if it has your address on it)
• Wallets and purses.

Don't make the mistake of thinking that because you live in a low crime area, you can leave items in your car or leave car doors unlocked.

5 Tips Protect Your Vehicle:

• Always lock your vehicle and take your keys.
• Never leave your car running and unattended.
• Park in a well-lit area.
• Take valuables with you when you are not in your vehicle.
• Keep valuables out of sight.

Remember, take all your belongings with you when you leave the car. If you can’t take them with you, lock them in the trunk, preferably before you start your journey.