04/06/2022
CONSTABLE HERMAN'S TIPS TO PREVENT CAR-WHEEL THEFTS
1. Buy Lug Nut Locks
This solution involves replacing one of the lug nuts on each wheel with a lock, which requires a special tool to remove. For extra protection, you can buy lock kits for all of the lug nuts on your wheels. Just don’t lose the key, which you’ll need to remove the wheel should you have to change a flat tire.
2. Install An Alarm With A Sensor
Unlike standard car alarms, which alert you when your car has been broken into, alarms with sensors can detect a tilt or angle change if thieves try to jack up your vehicle. Some high-end, newer vehicles offer this type of alarm, or you can buy it as an aftermarket addition for $250–$500.
3. Park In Secure, Well-Lit Areas
Thieves almost always strike at night, staking out areas where they’re less likely to be discovered, like a dark street without lights. Stay in areas where there’s more traffic, both vehicular and pedestrian, and where there are security cameras, if possible. If you’re parking somewhere overnight, make sure your car is visible and if you are home and able to, park inside your garage.
4. Turn Your Wheels
When you park your car, turn the wheels to a 45-degree angle. This will make it difficult for a thief to get the lug nuts off, because the inner fender will likely be in the way.
5. Park Close To The Curb
When parallel parking on the street, get as close as you can to the curb. The closer your vehicle is, the more difficult it will be for a thief to put a jack underneath your car. While the street side of your car will still be exposed, at least the tires on the curb side of your car will be better protected.
6. Buy A Set Of Boots
Locking up all your wheels with metal boots—which cover the lug nuts like an earmuff—may sound a little extreme. After all, it takes anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes to attach each one and may require special tools. But if you need to leave your car outside while you’re away for a long time, boots will certainly be a deterrent. They cost about $70 a pair (you’ll need two pair) and can be found online and in auto stores.
7. Talk to Your Neighbors
Do your part and develop bonds with people who live on your block to increase the odds of someone seeing something unusual and calling police.
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