The most recent Home Office survey showed that 2,956,000 thefts of, or from, cars were reported in 1999: one fifth of all recorded crimes in the UK.  But things are looking up – this figure represents a 20% reduction on similar thefts in 1998, and the Government has declared its commitment to lowering this rate by another 30% by 2004.
Crucially, all cars built in the EU since 1998 have to be fitted with an engine immobiliser as standard, and car manufacturers are now beginning to offer higher levels of security on mainstream models.

WhatCar? Security Awards give a good idea of how car

manufacturers measure up and, happily, Toyota maintained excellent results for the second year running.  Of the seven Toyota cars tested, both the Yaris and Previa were winners of their group, with the MR2 Roadster, Celica, Corolla and Avensis all achieving high scores.  And Lexus – a sister company of Toyota – managed top place for the third consecutive year, this time with its LS430 model – remains the only company ever to score full marks.
The Metropolitan Police advise drivers to look for the broadest range of security features when buying a new car.

These include:
	a deadlock and central locking
	an alarm
	display of secure plates illustrating the VIN (vehicle identification number)
	major components marked with an identification number
	windows etched with a unique identifier
	a unique–fit stereo or an integrated one that would be useless if removed
	locking wheel nuts
	a secure spare wheel
	a secure boot that’s inaccessible from within the car
	lockable fuel caps

Most of these features are offered as standard in the award–winning

Toyota models.  Aside from the features that come as standard, the Police recommend contacting your insurer as some systems can reduce your premium.  If you have a particularly desirable car, you should also think about fitting a vehicle tracking system – although their relatively high cost makes them suitable only for really expensive vehicles.  With developments in telematics – wireless voice and data communication between a car and somewhere else – vehicle tracking will become more sophisticated.
Existing tracking products can only be activated once the owner notices the car’s theft, but with telematics, a combination of

cellular communications (GSM), satellite positioning (GPS) and digital mapping, thieves won’t be able to get too far as vehicles are tracked constantly.  The automatic car–location system will be able to place an email, phone or pager call to the owner to alert them to the theft.  The technology is likely to be a deterrent to potential thieves as well as an aid to
vehicle recovery.

The chip card is beginning to replace the traditional car key in some models, and is set to become more widely available in the near future.  “The smart key system is a promising new security feature that is likely prove

an effective defence against car theft”, says David Bell of Secured by Design, a specialist consultancy that advises car manufacturers and insurers on all aspects of car crime prevention.  The science of biometrics, or finger print identification, is another technology that may revolutionise driver access and authorisation.
Faster than using a key, fingertip sensors could identify a specific driver and only then
authorise ignition.

The hope is that these and other new developments will contribute to the downward trend in car crime figures, but as the Home Office crime survey makes clear,

motorists’ increasing awareness of car crime and its prevention will continue to be a key defence in the war against the car thieves.

Common sense precautions:
	Secure the doors, windows, boot and sun roof every time you leave the car.  Even if you’re leaving the car unattended for a short time, such as paying for petrol, make sure the car is completely locked.
	It might sound obvious, but never leave valuables on display inside your car.  Keep all driving documents outside the vehicle – they can make it easier for the thief to sell your

	car or provide a feasible story if stopped by the police.  Car stereo and other car parts account for 60% of thefts from vehicles, so if the equipment can be removed it makes sense to do so.
	Don’t just park anywhere.  17% of all car crimes take place in a car park, so check your parking space has adequate lighting and, if possible, is covered by CCTV cameras.
	It might be worth using extra security reinforcements.  Any specialist high street shops will be able to provide you with the usual armoury of alarms and immobilisers, but the VSIB (Vehicle Security Installation Board) will provide you with a

	list of accredited installation companies (telephone 08705 502 006).  Make sure that properly installed Thatcham–compliant or Sold Secure approved security devices are used.
	For a list of recognised security products call Sold Secure on 01327 264 687.

For advice from the National Security Helpline, click here, or for more details on the RAC Trackstar system please contact your local dealer.  To locate your nearest dealer, please click here.

Alternatively, click here to visit the police website and find out about car crime in your area.

To read the next Out and About article, click here.