DIY Security Tips to protect your Vehicle
Disclaimer: The following is provided as a GUIDE ONLY, and neither myself nor Ozhonda take any responsibility for the outcomes of someone else doing the following. You follow these steps at your own risk!
Aim: Providing Maximum Security for your Vehicle!
Almost Every Five minutes a Car is stolen in Australia. Many get Vandalised then Dumped, but some of the older cars simply get stripped and the parts sold off.
Civics, from 80-96 are the top Honda models Stolen.
Here are a few *cheap and easy* things you can do, if you've already go your car Alarm system.
Window Car Alarm Stickers
Indicate that your car has an Alarm, but steer away from stickers that promote the use of a particular system; the less they know, the better.
Mark your Car
If you're planning on keeping your vehcile, engrave personal information, such as initals somewhere inconspicuous. Such as the Boot, or in the Hood, or on the Body of the car.
Interior Siren
If someone has broken into you car, making it unpleasent will make it not only uncomfortable, but throw them off their game.
Strobe Alarm Indicator
If you can fit one somewhere that it will show; all the better. You want as much attention brought to your car as possible!
Door Knobs
Older cars have lock-knobs that have a bulb on the end that allows users to easily unlock cars. This same design helps theives steal cars. Get yours changed if you have them!
Key Locked Petrol Cap
Although I don't see many around any more, it could definatly be worth doing. Can't go far when they can't fill it up.
Window Etching
Get the VIN Etched onto your windows. Many new cars already have this done.
Alarm Armed Indicator (Flashing LEDs)
Having a Visual Deterrance such as an LED means you don't need to be worried about having your car broken, before someone realises there is an Alarm. The Light should be visible from afar!
Don't Attach a Spare Key
Don't stick a spare key -anywhere- on your vehicle. Theives as part of a routine will check places where a key may be attached.
More Tips!
More Technical, and other Tips from members:
SiReal: Fuel cut-off switch
aimre: Take out your ECU fuse (if our car will not be used for an extended time).
BIG'O: Fuel pump cut-off switch.
EuroDude:Put a German Shepard in the car (Not sure if RSCPA would approve.. :P)
Mugeneration:
Tip 1: Take all items (CDs included) out of your car and leave the glove box open so they can see there's nothing worth stealing inside the car.
Tip 2: If you have a newer head unit that has a removable face plate, go buy a crappy arse head unit (2nd hand if needed) and take the face off of that. Place the crappy face on the deck any time you leave the car, now they think you have a dodgy sound system ;-)
Tip 3: Always turn you music down and dont rev as hard in the last few kms of your destination. Opportunistic thieves wont be drawn to your car as easily, and your neighbors will thank you.
More to be added, or just read through the thread!