Keys

A thief can pretty much overcome almost all the security measures you take to protect your vehicle if they have the keys.

Since most new cars are fitted with immobilisers, stealing your keys is often the only means by which a thief can take your vehicle. Thieves will sometimes break into a home specifically to steal the owner's car.

The following measures will help protect your keys :

• When not in your possession, vehicle keys should never be left near windows or doors. Consider having a designated place in the house out of sight where keys can be left.

• When parking your vehicle ensure you always take the keys with you. Do not leave them in the ignition, even for short periods of time. Cars are sometimes stolen while the owner nips into a shop or pays for fuel.

• On cold mornings never leave your car unattended with the engine running while it warms up.