13 Effective Ways for Auto Dealers to Prevent Car Theft (Prior to Video Surveillance)

In this blog, we’ll talk about 13 tools you can use before deploying video surveillance to prevent car theft from your dealership.

Car theft is getting worse all over North America, which is not a secret. The Canadian Border Services Agency says that with 9,439 reported cases, vehicle theft was the second most common crime in 2022.  The Council on Criminal Justice says that between 2019 and 2022, motor vehicle thefts have gone up by 59% in 30 major cities in the United States.

You’re on the right page if these scary facts make you want to do more to protect your car dealership. Here are 13 easy and proven ways to make your site’s perimeter more secure.

Let’s dive right in.

Tool 1: Fence.

Thieves might be tempted by a car lot that is easy to access. In fact, without a fence, they can get close to your vehicles without much trouble or resistance.

Steel mesh fences are one of the best car theft prevention strategies because they make it hard for people to break in.

Where should the fence go?

The fence should go all the way around your business. Add cement blocks where the fence travels through a more secluded area prone to foul activity. It will prevent robbers from driving the cars away from these vulnerable points.

How to pick the right fence?

There are several types of mesh fencing that are used to protect a business’s perimeter. Usually, a steel mesh fence is a good choice for car dealerships.

Tool 2: Bollards.

As previously said, criminals see opportunities in easily accessible car lots. While fences are effective deterrents, you may want to avoid using them in front of your dealership for aesthetic reasons.

Enter the bollards. These vertical posts, which are more visually appealing than a standard fence, provide a physical barrier that makes it impossible for thieves to drive cars out of your parking lot.

How to choose the right bollards for your perimeter?

Bollards exist in a variety of shapes, sizes, and patterns, and they serve a variety of functions. Examine all choices before deciding what is best for your company.

How should you arrange them?

Use enough bollards to make sure that your entrance is completely safe. The space between each one must be small enough that your narrowest car cannot get through.

Tool 3: Strong gates.

A gate with loose hinges will not prevent car theft. With the proper equipment, thieves will be able to break down your door and enter your premises.

You must select the appropriate hinges for the gate you have installed. So, there will not be any weak spots. Intruders will be unable to gain access to your property.

How to choose the right gate hinges

To make the best choice, consider the weight and width of the gate door. Once you have decided on the proper hinges, you will have no trouble finding matching gate locks, latches, and wheels, if necessary.

Tool 4: Locks.

Again, the simplicity with which thieves realize they may access your vehicles will motivate them to rob your dealership.

Locks are car theft deterrent devices. They show would-be burglars that the dealership takes security seriously and has measures in place to protect the property. As a result, they may desist from attempting to trespass on your premises.

Why locks are good!

• They are a visible deterrent.
• They let the dealership make sure that only authorized employees who know the code or have the key can get in.
• They are adaptable because they are available in a variety of styles. More on this later.
• They are typically inexpensive.
• They have a reputation for dependability.

 

What kinds of locks are out there?

Deadbolts:

A metal bolt is used to secure a door. Because they are regarded to be quite safe, they are frequently utilized for gates and storage rooms.

Padlocks:

They can be unlocked with a key or a series of numbers. They are very secure and are frequently used in conjunction with other types of locks.

Electronic locks:

To open the door, they use a keypad or a card reader. They have the advantage of allowing authorized users to enter without a key and of keeping track of the time and person who entered the area.

Smart locks:

A smartphone or other smart devices can control them. They have the advantage of being able to be opened remotely and allowing authorized users to enter without the use of a key.

Biometric locks:

They can be unlocked using fingerprints, a facial scan, or other biometric data. They have the advantage of being very secure and allowing authorized users to enter without the use of a key.

Which locks should you pick?

Choose a robust lock that is difficult to pick. The idea is to increase the time it takes the thief to open it in the hopes that he will give up or be caught.

Tool 5: Reinforcements for locks.

You’ve probably realized by now that the more difficult it is for criminals to gain access to your valuables, the less likely it is that your cars will be stolen.

Among car theft prevention devices, lock reinforcements add an extra layers of protection to your gates, trailers, and anywhere else you might use locks. Most likely, this will discourage thieves from trying to break into your property.

Lock reinforcement examples:

Solid steel hasps:

They are an effective way to prevent prying and cutting attempts.

Hasp truck security hidden shackle locks:

They are typically used to improve vehicle and trailer security.

Anti-theft case for containers:

They are a good way to protect locks on containers.

Tool 6: Warning Signs.

Most thieves try to steal cars at night, when the dealership is closed and they can hide in the dark. 

One of the effective car theft prevention strategies is to post signs indicating that your property is watched 24 hours a day, seven days a week, using camera surveillance. If thieves know they are being watched, they are less likely to spend time trying to break into your property and steal cars. They could be caught by a security operator who would then call the police. Also, video of their crime is still available after the fact, so they could be charged.

This is a great approach whether or not you use remote camera surveillance. The thief has no way of knowing the truth, right?!

Where should warning signs for live surveillance be placed?

Live surveillance warning signs should be placed prominently on the site of your dealership so that potential intruders may see them.

Here are a few key locations for warning signs:

1. At the entrance of your dealership.

2. All around the perimeter of your dealership.

3. Close to any video surveillance cameras.

4. Inside your dealership.

Make sure your signs can be seen:

Select a font size and colour that is legible from a distance and in a variety of lighting conditions. 

Place the signs in areas where they may be seen without being obscured by tree branches, flags, or other objects.

Tool 7: Lights.

As previously stated, robbers prefer to operate in the dark when they believe they will not be spotted or recognized.

A classic car theft prevention strategy is to keep your dealership’s perimeter well-lit at all times. Intruders will be put off by the possibility of being spotted attempting to break in. They may even believe that employees are still present.

Where should you put lights on the premises of your car dealership?

Set up enough lights in key spots around your site.

1. At the entrance of your car dealership
2. All around the perimeter of your car dealership
3. Near live surveillance warning signs
4. Near any video surveillance cameras

 

To know more about adequate lighting conditions for your site, consult this exhaustive guide on Lighting for Perimeter Security Applications by Accu-Tech.

Tool 8: High-end cars’ extra theft protection strategies.

Some burglars may target expensive and rare cars for resale value, the prestige of such an act, or the simplicity of theft.

You can take extra precautions to protect your high-end vehicles to avoid a costly robbery.

What are the best car theft prevention devices and tactics?

GPS:

GPS lets you create virtual borders called geofences. You’ll get an alert if the car crosses the boundary, preventing theft.

GPS devices can track a car’s location, speed, and direction remotely, helping you discover suspicious activity and recover a stolen car.

Check out our detailed guide: The role of GPS tracker in deterring and solving car theft.

Steering wheel lock:

A steering wheel lock is a visible deterrent. Because they take time to take off, thieves are less likely to try to steal a car that has one of these devices installed.

Plus, they do not cost much, so it is a no-brainer to buy them to protect your expensive cars.

To remove the electrical fuse:

Removing a car’s electrical fuse is both simple and inexpensive.

The electric fuse gives power to things like the ignition system, the fuel pump, and the starter motor. By taking out the fuse, you turn off these parts, making it impossible to start the car and extremely difficult to steal.

To unplug the battery:

It is also easy and cheap to unplug the car battery.

Like removing a fuse, unplugging the car battery cuts power to the starter motor and ignition system. This makes it impossible to start the car and makes it much less likely that thieves will steal it.

To park expensive cars in front of your enterprise:

If your dealership is on a street with a lot of traffic, park the most expensive cars in front of it. Thieves are shyer to steal straight in front of passing vehicles and pedestrians.

High security zone:

You can make a high-security area for luxury cars on the grounds of your dealership. This section would have more car theft prevention technologies, like a stronger fence and locks, an access control system, and, if necessary, security cameras. The goal is to make it harder for intruders to get to these valuable cars.

Is a kill switch to prevent car theft a good idea?

Kill switches can be useful to automotive dealerships as an additional security measure to prevent your cars from being stolen.

A kill switch is an anti-theft device installed in vehicles. It’s an electrical circuit controlled by a switch, button, or similar mechanism. When activated, it quickly cuts power to the engine or fuel pump.

When a kill switch is installed, it enhances your car’s anti-theft security. If a thief bypasses the ignition or hotwires the engine, the car won’t start. Even if the engine does start, the kill switch can quickly stop it from running. This added layer makes stealing your car much more difficult. This additional layer makes theft much harder and more frustrating for thieves.

Several types of kill switches can be installed in a car, cutting power to the fuel pump, ignition system, or starter motor. Some require a specific code or key to activate. Others can be triggered by pressing a button or flipping a switch. Each type offers a different method of preventing unauthorized vehicle use.

Overall, a kill switch is an effective and affordable car theft protection. It can prevent thieves from starting your vehicle without authorization. However, proper installation by a security professional is crucial. This ensures it’s wired correctly and won’t interfere with the car’s electrical systems.

Tool 9: Alarm system.

Another key to preventing car theft is stopping intruders from entering your building. This prevents access to cars, car keys, and your server room.

An alarm system is an excellent tool for security. It deters would-be intruders who want to avoid getting caught. It also alerts the security team or police if a break-in is attempted.

Choosing an alarm system:

Ask your security installer to help you pick the type of alarm system that will work best for your business.

Here are some options to think about:

Audible alarm:

When the alarm detects unauthorized entry, it emits a loud siren. This alerts the neighborhood and scares the thief away.

Silent alarm:

Some alarm systems include a silent alarm option that alerts the dealership’s security team. They can also notify local law enforcement if a theft is detected. The objective is to capture the thief in the act.

Sensors:

Alarm systems often include sensors that detect motion, vibration, or changes in the position of the vehicle, which can set off the alarm and alert security.

Tool 10: Key box with a pin code.

Every day, your car salespeople handle many car keys. It can be hard to keep track of who has which key. Also, keys that are lost or forgotten around the dealership can be a problem if they end up in the wrong hands.

A basic key box with a pin code will keep your keys safe and out of reach of malicious people.

The KEYper MX Electronic Key System is a great security solution for car dealerships. It can hold up to 2000 keys and has audit trails that show who has your keys and when they took them.

Tool 11: Cybersecurity.

Cyberattacks do not spare automobile dealerships. Malicious hackers can gain access to your security system and disable cameras, access control, and the alarm system, leaving your location unprotected.

There are many steps you can take to prevent network breaches.

1. Update your operating systems, firewalls, antivirus software, and other software regularly to help prevent known vulnerabilities from being exploited.
2. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication to access any sensitive systems or data.
3. Limit access to sensitive data to personnel who need it.
4. Train employees on how to identify phishing emails, how to keep their devices secure, and how to report suspicious activity.
5. Monitor network traffic for any unusual activity or signs of a breach.
6. Conduct regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities and ensure that cybersecurity measures are working effectively.

 

Tool 12: Camera in the server room.

Anyone with access to your server room can tamper with the video recorder or your security system.

Installing a camera in this room will deter malicious individuals from entering. It will also provide footage if an intrusion occurs. This footage can be crucial for identifying and possibly prosecuting the intruder.

Tool 13: Access control system to the server room.

Again, one of the best car theft prevention tips is to keep your video recorder and full security system from being messed with.

If a thief enters your main building, it will be difficult for them to access your server room. This barrier can help prevent robbery of your dealership’s valuable assets.

Car Dealership Security: The Complete Guide on Better Video Surveillance is a great resource to continue your education on how to secure your auto dealership.

You might also be interested in Top 10 Benefits of Automotive Dealership Live Video Monitoring.

FAQs:

What is car theft with keyless entry?

Car theft with keyless entry, called “relay theft” or “keyless theft,” is becoming more common.This increase is linked to the widespread use of keyless entry systems. Modern vehicles commonly feature these systems, making theft easier.

In this type of theft, thieves intercept the signal from a keyless entry fob. They relay it to a device near the car to gain unauthorized access. This tricks the car’s computer system into thinking that the key is present and unlocks the car, allowing the thieves to drive it away.

This type of theft is alarming because it happens quickly and quietly without a physical key. It can occur without any signs of forced entry.

What are tips for preventing keyless car theft in dealerships?

1. Store key fobs in a signal-blocking pouch or container. 

A conductive material is used in key fob signal-blocking pouches to block radio waves between a keyless entry fob and the car’s computer system, preventing thieves from intercepting the signal and relaying it to unlock the automobile. These pouches function as a Faraday cage, an enclosure that blocks the entry of outside electromagnetic signals.

2. Use auto theft prevention devices.

As discussed, there are many ways to prevent car theft, like using a GPS, steering wheel lock, or kill switch. These tools help secure your vehicle effectively.

3.   Use car theft prevention tactics.

We’ve already talked about the best ways to keep your car from being stolen, like unplugging the battery, taking out the electrical fuse, putting up strong fences, making sure there’s enough light, etc.

What are anti-theft stickers?

Anti-theft stickers for cars are decals or labels that are placed on the windows or other visible areas of a car to deter thieves from attempting to steal the vehicle. The stickers often display a warning message or a symbol that indicates that the car has a security system installed or is being monitored by an alarm company.

Are anti-theft stickers an effective way for auto dealerships to reduce car theft?

Anti-theft stickers might be effective as an additional auto theft deterrent technique for car dealerships. They are inexpensive and simple to install, and they create a visual deterrent that may stop potential thieves from targeting your vehicles.

However, anti-theft stickers should not be the only method relied upon to prevent car theft. While they serve as a deterrent, they aren’t foolproof. Thieves may still find ways to bypass them. Automobile dealerships need to implement multiple layers of security. Using the 13 tools listed earlier in this article can provide stronger protection.

What is a theft deterrent at a dealership?

A dealership’s effective theft deterrent includes security cameras and large, noticeable live surveillance warning signs placed throughout the property.

How do you 100% prevent car theft?

Stopping car theft completely is impossible, but you can reduce risk by following best practices. Park your vehicle in a locked or secure garage whenever possible for added protection. Lock the onboard diagnostic port with a simple device bought online to block access. This prevents thieves from reprogramming your vehicle’s key fob and gaining entry. Use a steering wheel locking device for added security. It provides an extra physical barrier against theft. Invest in a third-party GPS tracker to help recover your vehicle if lost or stolen. Place your vehicle’s key fob inside a radio frequency shielding bag to block signals. This stops thieves from amplifying the key fob’s signal and unlocking your car remotely. Finally, consider installing a high-quality video surveillance system for continuous monitoring.
You’ll receive alerts of suspicious activity to keep your garage or driveway secure at all times.

How do I protect myself at a car dealership?

There are a few precautions you should take when purchasing a new car from an automotive dealership: 

• Check the reputation of the car dealership. Check out Google reviews and use word-of-mouth whenever possible.
• Go look at the cars in person.
• Take it for a test drive.
• Demand answers to as many questions as you want. Buying a car is a serious matter, and sales representatives should be able to provide you with all of the information you require to make the best decision for you.
• If you have friends, acquaintances, or coworkers who own the car model you want to buy, solicit their feedback. 
• Look for more online reviews on the car you want to buy.
• Check to see if any recalls have been issued for the vehicle you are about to purchase.

Here are some additional precautions to take when purchasing a used car:

• Check the vehicle’s title and/or history report to learn about previous accidents, repairs, outstanding liens, and so on.
• Request information from the previous owner.
• Obtain a mechanical inspection.
• Allow yourself plenty of time. If you buy a car in a hurry, you may overlook issues.

How do I not get scammed by a car dealer?

There are a few practises to follow in order to avoid being deceived by a car dealer:

• Always purchase from a reputable vendor. Examine the Google reviews.
• Never put your trust in photos found on the internet. Visit the dealership and test drive the vehicle.
• Don’t send money until you’ve met with the seller. This way, you can ensure that the transaction is legal and that the car exists in the mentioned condition.
• Pay through secure channels to ensure that you have proof of payment and that your personal information is safe.
• Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle.
• Examine all paperwork, including the history report and car title.
• This helps you learn about previous accidents, liens, and repairs.
• Prepare a list of questions to ask your dealer.

What is the most effective car theft deterrent?

According to law enforcement, visible steering wheel locks are the best deterrent against car theft. These locks signal to thieves that the vehicle is protected. They should ideally be paired with a GPS tracking system for added security. Using a radio frequency shielding bag for your car key fob is highly recommended. It helps protect your key fob from unauthorized access. This protects the key fob when the car is not in use.

What anti-theft device do most cars have?

The most common anti-theft device is a steering wheel lock. They easily attach to the car’s steering wheel to prevent it from turning.

What is a passive theft deterrent system?

Unlike an active theft deterrent system, which must be manually armed, passive disbeling devices arm themselves when the vehicle is turned off, the ignition key is removed, or a door is closed. The car driver is not required to take any further action.

What do car thieves target?

Car thieves often target electronics, sensitive data, and branded accessories inside vehicles. They don’t just steal cars but also valuable items left inside. Catalytic converters are popular targets for thieves. This is because they have a high value on the black market. Thieves remove and sell them for quick profit. Some burglars search for garage door openers inside cars. This lets thieves enter your home undetected. They can then steal even more valuable items inside.

What is the number one deterrent to external theft?

Having a loss prevention system that combines monitored security cameras with attentive and active staff.

What is a theft deterrent module?

A theft deterrent module is installed inside your vehicle to help prevent the theft of your vehicle, fuel and wheels. It helps prevent break-ins by detecting broken windows that might go unnoticed. This promptly addresses vulnerabilities and enhances overall security.

What are the 3 categories of anti-theft devices?

1. Warning devices: An audible or visible device that lets thieves know your car is protected. Examples include tire locks, tire deflators, steering wheel locks, laminated glass, and audible alarms.

2. Immobilizing devices: They prevent thieves from hot-wiring the car and bypassing your ignition. Smart keys, kill switches, fuse cut-offs, etc. are a few examples.

3. Tracking devices: When a car is stolen, they send a signal to the police or a monitoring centre.

 

Further Reading:

For more insights into vehicle vulnerability, explore our detailed guides:

1. Discover the most frequently stolen vehicles in Canada in 2023, and understand the reasons behind their targeting at Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada.
2. Learn about the top cars that thieves tend to avoid due to their advanced security features and how these models benefit dealerships at Top Hardest Cars to Steal.

Conclusion:

That’s it!

How can you prevent car theft? Well, if you use the 13 tools above, you should be safe.

Which tool will you put into use first?

Let us know in the comment box below.

Sirix offers remote protection and site management for hundreds of automotive dealership security operations throughout North America.

We provide remote video monitoring, access control, and many other services specifically designed for the automotive industry.