Vehicles

Your vehicle is probably the high cost personal item your own. It is critical for your survival since it is used to get you to work, stores, doctors, etc. Yet, more many people, it sets on the street, in parking lot, or in your driveway, in public view, and with public access. You keep all your other valuables hidden and protected and yet you most valuable item is completed exposed. However, there are some things you can do to protect your vehicle.

VIN: Since 1969, the United States federal government has required manufacturers to engrave a unique number, the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), on all passenger cars in one visible and several hidden locations. One VIN is engraved on a metal plate on the dashboard near the windshield. When a car is reported stolen, police send its VIN to the FBI's computerized National Crime Information Center.

Passive and Active Anti-Theft Systems: Passive devices automatically arm themselves when the vehicle is turned off, the ignition key removed, or a door is shut. No additional driver action is required. Active devices require some independent physical action before they are set, such as pushing a button, or placing a “lock” over a vehicle component part. This physical action must be repeated every time the anti-theft device is set or it will not function.