Four door sedans and wagons were the most common types of cars stolen according to claims data. The most popular vehicles on the market – Toyota, Holden and Ford – were the most common makes of cars stolen.

With the increase in car thefts, here are a few tips to scare off thieves.

Anti-theft technology

Car alarms have long been a popular option for motorists. Further developments in technology have been designed to stop crooks in their tracks.

According to the Australian Design Rules, any passenger vehicle built after 2001 has to be equipped with an engine immobiliser. This in-built system stops a potential thief from starting the engine without the car’s authorised key.

More advanced systems have sound alarms, time-out features and can even notify security firms when your car has been stolen. Depending on connectivity, you can also be alerted remotely if someone’s in your car.

Vehicle GPS tracking and intelematics are further options to consider.

Tamper-proof screws

Number plates are a prime target of thieves out to commit crimes such as robbery, home break-ins and stealing petrol.

Tamper-proof screws can potentially save you a lot of hassle. All you have to do is remove the current screws, replace them with tamper-proof ones and tighten until firm with a flat-head screwdriver. Tamper-proof screws can be purchased from most local hardware stores.

They are also available via the RAA Car Advice service through a partnership with SA Police and Neighbourhood Watch. If you’re not comfortable installing tamper-proof screws, a participating RAA Approved Repairer in the metropolitan area can fit them free of charge.

If your number plate is stolen, immediately report it to SA Police on 131 444.

Hide and key seek

Did you know that seven in 10 cars are stolen with their own keys? No, we didn’t pull this from an episode of Ripley’s Believe It or Not. This mind-blowing stat is true.

Cunning offenders break into homes through unlocked doors and windows, searching for keys in easy-to-find spots. The occupants are often home. However, they’re usually sleeping, distracted or busy, and remain completely oblivious to the intruder creeping about.

These are known as sneak thefts.

Thieves will usually try to avoid people (and pets) in this situation. Their mission is to steal a car, not get in a fight, and they just want to skedaddle as soon as possible. In 95% of these incidents, there’s no confrontation.

Pro-tip: don’t leave your car keys in obvious places. This rules out key hooks in the kitchen and bowls on the hallway table near the front door. Definitely don’t leave your keys under the ‘Home Sweet Home’ welcome mat on your front doorstep.

Value for money?

Car theft is stressful, inconvenient, and costly.

There are many variables to consider when it comes to car security. For instance, do you carry valuables in your car? If you don’t, then you might not have to splash out as much.

If we’re being honest, how many of us pay attention to car alarms? Admit it, you’ve often found this infernal racket annoying more than anything – It’s like a car crying wolf.

Budget can be a determining factor. Anti-theft technology ranges from relatively inexpensive devices to hi-tech systems that can set you back thousands of dollars.

It might be worth it for peace of mind. After all, every little bit helps, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Comprehensive Car Insurance is issued by RAA Insurance Limited ABN 14 007 872 602. AFSL No. 232525. Limits and exclusions apply. Consider the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination available from the RAA website when deciding whether to purchase this product.