How Owners Of Classic Cars Can Protect Themselves From Thieves.
Do you own an older or a classic car? You’re at increased risk of car theft. Whether you’re taking your baby out for a Sunday drive or are exhibiting it at a car show, take precautions.
- 40 to 50% of all car thefts occur because the driver left the keys in the car.
- Older (pre 2000) car models can be hotwired.
Where is my car?
If you become a victim of car theft, contact the police in your state immediately. They will help you lodge a theft report, which you’ll need in order to submit a claim with your insurance company. Make sure you contact your insurance company within 24 hours. If you find your car before the police does, contact them – and your insurer – immediately.
The most useful classic car theft prevention strategies are the most “common sense” ones.
Switch Off
Turn off your car before you walk away. Never leave the car running, with keys in the ignition – even for a quick stop.
Hide Valuables
Don’t leave anything expensive or interesting inside. Resist the temptation to pile things on the back seat, or into the centre console.
No Keys Inside
Never keep the spare set of keys inside your car. Leave it inside the house, but not in an obvious place (yes, master bedroom and living room are too obvious).
Use Deterrents
Install a 3rd party immobiliser if your car doesn’t have an OEM one. Also, get your local auto electrician to install a kill switch – for $200-300 this is one of the highest-ROI measures you can take.
Is your classic car fully insured? Make sure you’re covered for an agreed value that’s consistent with how much the car is currently worth. You might need to use a specialist insurer like Shannons – they understand nuances of classic car ownership better than mainstream insurers like NRMA and AAMI.
If your car is being stolen, do not confront the thief. Your safety is more important than the car – call police immediately and be ready to describe what you saw (number of thieves, their height, race, hair colour, outfits).