This way you prevent the theft of parts of your car

Just an example. A BMW driver gets into his car early one morning and is stunned to see that his airbag has disappeared. Fortunately, the thieves had left all the screws neatly lined up on the dashboard. The burglary was also very neatly done. So without destroying the door and without setting off the alarm. But could this BMW driver have prevented that airbag theft?

Protect demountable parts

Many parts, including headlights and mirrors or bumpers, can be protected against theft by using shear bolts. With such bolts, the head breaks off when the part is tightened. You can then no longer unscrew it. The biggest disadvantage of this system is that if you want to replace it, it will be more expensive. After all, the shear bolt must be removed. You can protect beautiful alloy wheels with carriage bolts. Make sure that you do not keep the appropriate key in the car. For side mirrors that are sought after by the thieves guild because of the electronics anti-theft covers that you can order online.

Prevent theft of parts such as your catalytic converter

Specifically, the second-generation Toyota Prius was a widespread victim of catalytic converter theft for a time. An expensive joke, but the device was very popular because of the expensive precious metals it contained. According to Toyota, you can prevent the theft by installing a Catloc: extra clamps around the catalytic converter, which are connected by a chain to the subframe of the car itself. You can order it through the dealer. An alarm with tilt sensor can also help reduce the risk of theft.

Alarm with tilt angle sensor

Another adjustment you can make to your car: provide an alarm with an inclination sensor. If a thief wants wheels or a catalytic converter, he will have to jack up the car (something). This is felt by the sensors of the alarm and the alarm goes off. That will deter most thieves. Such an alarm is often installed as standard in more expensive cars.

Disable keyless entry

You can already find it in our article about keyless entry: the system is very easy, but also for people with less good intentions. You make it harder for car thieves if you disable it in your car. If you are attached to the convenience of the car that opens when you get close, you can also keep the key further away from your car (at least six meters) or in a metal box or metal key cabinet. Test that new spot carefully. You prevent the thieves from opening your car or that the alarm is switched off by the key that has given its signal.

Put your car in

It is best to park the car in a (closed) garage, because then a thief cannot reach it. A parking garage with security can also be better than a dark street in that respect.

Park in good lighting

Thieves don’t like it when they can be seen. So choose your parking space in a place where people pass by. And a place that is well lit. This may play into the hands of the thieves of parts, but they are also noticed faster. They generally do not like that. And is there a neighborhood prevention WhatsApp group in your area? Then join them, because more people will keep an eye out in the area. Dash cams can also have a function to record movements around the car. In this test you will find a number of cheaper dash cams that still do their job quite well.

Is theft of parts insured?

If your car has been robbed of parts, you may wonder whether the theft of parts is covered by your insurance policy. If you have a liability-limited hull or all-risk insurance, then that is usually the case. Pay attention to the small print. Sometimes more expensive parts such as wheels are placed in a separate extra policy or there are special conditions. That’s something to keep an eye on.