Skip advert
Advertisement

Avoid a break-in

Top steps you can take to prevent break-ins and car theft

The chances of a different key unlocking your car may be wafer thin, but you still have to guard against thieves using less subtle methods. We asked a number of insurers which factors they considered when rating the theft risk of vehicles.

LocationTop of the list is where you live. Shef­field, Grimsby and Hull are the UK’s top car crime hotspots, claims insurer Nor­wich Union (NU). Owners in Sheffield are five times more likely to have their motor stolen than anywhere else. But the Cots­wolds is the safest location, according to cover provider Direct Line.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Safe storageWhere you park is another big factor on premiums. Garaging a Ford Focus in central London can attract as much as a 10 per cent discount, according to NU.

Buy newThe older the motor, the more likely it is to be stolen, according to Government figures. The Home Office’s Car Theft Risk Survey shows models aged more than 13 years old are most at risk, with 31 in every 1,000 registered being nicked.

Track itFit a tracking device, and you could save up to 15 per cent on cover. Device maker Tracker has recovered more than £200million worth of vehicles to date. Log on to www.tracker.co.uk for details.

Safety firstMost new models are subject to New Vehicle Security Rating assessments by insurance research body Thatcham. The centre sets the tone for premiums – cars with its highest five-star rating fall into the lowest insurance groups.

ImmobilisersMany insurers will only cover desir­able high-performance models if they are fitted with an immobiliser, but equipping any car with one can save cash on your premium. Visit www.thatcham.org for a list of approved devices.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Buying the right car can work wonders for your mental health
Opinion - mental wellbeing

Buying the right car can work wonders for your mental health

Paul Adam explains the role the car can play in helping to give you the ‘me time’ to maintain your wellbeing
Opinion
13 Jun 2025
The power from thousands of UK car drivers is now in your hands
Opinion - information is power when buying

The power from thousands of UK car drivers is now in your hands

Darren Wilson explains why we value your insight into car ownership – and how you can share your opinions with us right now
Opinion
5 Jun 2025
Buying a nearly new car could save you serious money
Opinion - nearly new cars

Buying a nearly new car could save you serious money

Ryan Birch explains the pros and cons of buying what are often described as ‘nearly new’ or ‘delivery mileage' cars
Opinion
29 May 2025
What should you do at the end of a PCP car finance agreement?
Short-term lease

What should you do at the end of a PCP car finance agreement?

Make sure you choose the right option when your PCP deal ends
Tips & advice
23 May 2025

Most Popular

New Peugeot 208 GTi: electric hot hatch gets stunning looks and plenty of power
Peugeot E-208 GTi - reveal front

New Peugeot 208 GTi: electric hot hatch gets stunning looks and plenty of power

Hot Peugeot E-208 gets racier styling, 276bhp and does 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds
News
13 Jun 2025
New BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort review: the best BYD yet
BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort - front

New BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort review: the best BYD yet

The new BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort is arguably the Chinese brand's most convincing model in its range
Road tests
11 Jun 2025
New entry-level Renault Symbioz is £3k cheaper than a Nissan Qashqai
Renault Symbioz hybrid - front angled

New entry-level Renault Symbioz is £3k cheaper than a Nissan Qashqai

The Renault Captur has also been fitted the new full-hybrid powertrain, which gets a bigger battery for more pure-electric driving
News
12 Jun 2025