Owning Classic Cars: Security
From Classic Car Life
Old cars may require certain car security measures to be put in place in order to be accepted by car insurance companies, depending on individual parking situations. Some insurers require you to park in a garage at night. This is the ideal situation for classic cars. However this is obviously not feasible for everyone. See the following advice on car security for tips on keep old cars safe.
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Parking
If your car is parked in a driveway, try to ensure that there is some lighting in the area. Thieves or vandals may be put off if they know they can be seen in the light. Old cars are targeted by thieves as they know that their car security may not be as advanced as modern cars.
You may consider installing a removable or folding security post so that you car cannot physically be removed by anyone else. If not, gates could also be a possibility. If you have another car which is more modern, you should park this in front so that it hides classic cars from view.
Car Alarms
No matter how well maintained old cars are, there is no doubting the fundamental security issues. Without modern intervention, classic cars are at more risk from being easily broken into. Car alarms are a proven deterrent to thieves and will decrease the chance of criminals making off with your vehicle. If you do decide to go down the advisable car alarms route, remember to check the best way to install it into your particular car. Older cars may be positive earth, or may have certain voltages that need specific adaptations first, so that they can be compatible with modern electrics. Good alarm systems will incorporate an immobiliser for extra protection.
Steering Wheels
Car security in the form of steering bars and locks will deter criminals, but can easily be hack sawed off by determined thieves. A newer alternative is to fit a tracking device in your car so that you know just where it has been taken to. Certain classic cars may benefit from quick-removing steering wheels, which leave the car very hard to drive away or be towed.
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An easy way of maintaining effective car security is to remove anything valuable from the car. Even if you think it is something that nobody else would want, you still may find yourself a victim of a car break-in.
