As a general rule, the profile of a car thief can be divided into two distinct categories:

   The opportunist and the professional. An opportunist car thief sees your
      car as a means of transport (a joy-rider), a chance to thrash someone
      else's car around in a reckless and often dangerous manner, or simply as
      an easy target. Cars stolen by an opportunist are often recovered badly
      damaged.

   The professional car thief wants your car for profit. The car may be
      stripped and the parts taken, or its identity changed so it can be illegally
      sold. Your stolen car may even be used in another crime, such as a ram-
      raid.

Installing an immobiliser has prevented thousands of cars being stolen.

Ways to reduce the chances of your car being stolen

Despite the high incidence of car theft in WA, there are proven strategies you can adopt that significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim.

From July 1, 1999, it is compulsory to fit an approved immobiliser on the purchase of a vehicle. This will make your car much harder to steal, and therefore much less attractive to thieves. The $40 Government rebate makes the cost of installation as low as $79.

    Park your car off the street, preferably in your yard or in a locked garage.
    If you need to park on the street at night, ensure you park in a well lit
       area.
    Have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched onto all major
       windows.


What to do if your car is stolen

You need to report the crime to the police immediately.
Tell police the registration number, make, model colour of the vehicle, and where the vehicle was stolen from. Notify your insurance company immediately.


A few more tips for making your car safe

    It is an offence to leave your keys in the ignition. Don't do it.
    Always close all windows and lock all doors before leaving your car.
    Don't leave valuable items in your car to entice a thief.
    Remove cheque books, credit cards, driver's license and registration
       papers from your glovebox, as these could be used by a thief.
    Spare keys should never be hidden in or on a vehicle. This is like leaving
       your front door key under the front door mat. Instead, keep a spare key
       in your wallet or purse.
    Keep all doors locked while driving.
    Check the rear seat area before getting into your car.

Contact us at Exile Investigations for further information or help