There
are several things that many classic car owners are naturally a bit more
concerned about than modern car owners, and one of the top examples here is
theft protection. A classic car is much more likely to be part of an attempted
theft than a modern vehicle, both due to their value and overall rarity, but
there are some simple ways classic car owners can avoid these risks
entirely.
At
Andersen Restoration Parts, we proudly offer a huge range of products and
equipment for those making any kind of upgrade or restoration to a classic
vehicle, from tie rod steering rebuild kits to center links,
polyurethane kits and many other options. Here are some general tips we
regularly offer clients on protecting their classic vehicles from any kind of
theft risk.

Common-Sense
Themes at Home
When
you're at home and your classic car is parked somewhere on the property, there
are several simple concepts you should always be maintaining for its security,
including:
- Locking garage or
shed: Ideally, your vehicle should be stored in a locked garage or shed
when not in use, either with a standard lock on the door or an additional
security system installed.
- Motion-sensing
lights: Motion-sensing lights can be used to illuminate any areas where
your classic car is parked, making it much harder for thieves to go
unnoticed in the dark.
- Covering the vehicle:
If the vehicle is parked in an area that doesn't have a garage or shed to
protect it, at least make sure it has a tarp covering over it while not in
use.
- Never leave keys
nearby: Never leave keys in any nearby areas – not even a spare set. This
is one of the easiest things thieves look for when casing out classic car
properties.
Common-Sense
Themes Away from Home
When
you're traveling away from home and taking your classic car with you, there are
some additional precautions and tips to keep in mind:
- Close windows, lock
doors: No matter where you are, make sure that all windows and doors of
the vehicle are closed and locked. Even if you're only leaving the vehicle
for a few minutes or even just walking away, always make sure it's
secured.
- Park in well-lit
areas: Whenever possible, park your classic car in well-lit areas where
there will be a lot of people around - parking garages or structures are
great options.
- Take your keys with
you: Just like you don't want to leave keys behind at home, never leave
them in the vehicle or in any other unattended area.
Theft Deterring
Components
Whether
they're already present in your vehicle or need to be installed, there are a
few additional components you can use to further deter any potential thieves:
- Car alarms: Car
alarms are simple but effective – they create a loud noise if the vehicle
is tampered with and alert anyone in the area of potential theft.
- Tracking
devices/systems: The installation of tracking device or system will also
allow you to be notified if the vehicle is being moved without your
permission.
- Engine immobilizers:
Engine immobilizers are also great for classic cars, as they will prevent
anyone from starting or even moving the vehicle without proper
authorization.
- Alarm window
stickers: Even if you don't have an alarm installed, displaying window
stickers can be enough to make would-be thieves think twice about
attempting anything.
More Extensive
Theft Prevention Options
In
some cases, you may want to go even a bit further than the above to protect
your classic car from theft risks. Here are some of your options:
- Brake pedal locks:
Brake pedal locks are designed to fit a classic car's brake pedal and make
it impossible for anyone other than the authorized user to apply the
brakes.
- Steering wheel locks:
Similarly, steering wheel locks make it almost impossible to steer a
vehicle without first unlocking them.
- Kill switches: Kill
switches can be installed into your classic car’s electrical system to
render it completely useless without your authorization.
- Fuel pump fuse
removal: If you're going to be away for an extended period, consider
removing the fuel pump fuse so that it cannot be started without first
being replaced.
No
matter where your classic car is located, following these tips and suggestions
can help ensure it stays safe and secure. Implementing a few of them can go a
long way towards keeping thieves away – so investing the time to do so can
provide peace of mind for classic car owners.
For more here, or to learn about any of our
classic vehicle restoration parts or tips, speak to our team at Andersen Restoration Parts today.