Understanding Insurance Policies

It's a Classic: 3 Tips to Protect Your Classic Car From Theft

11 April 2016

Samantha Reynolds

If you have a classic car, you want to protect it from would-be thieves. Unfortunately, the fact that your car is a classic makes it that much more appealing. It also makes your car that much more difficult to replace. The easiest way to prevent the theft of your valuable classic car is to keep it locked in the garage and never drive it. However, that takes the fun out of owning a classic. You want to enjoy your ride. So, how do you enjoy your ride and protect it from theft? Specialty auto insurance will cover your vehicle should it be stolen. However, you want to stop the theft from occurring in the first place. Here are a few simple suggestions for you to consider.

Install a Kill Switch

Cars become a lot more difficult to drive when the engine won't start. That's where a kill switch comes in handy. A kill switch is designed to prevent your engine from turning over once the switch is activated. The switch is installed inside the car, which makes it easy for you to access. Simply flip the switch before you leave the car. While it will be easy for you to deactivate the kill-switch, a would-be thief will have to find where the switch is located and then work to bypass the system.

VIN Etching

Most people who steal classic cars either want the car for themselves or they want to dismantle the car and sell the parts. To do that, they need to make sure that the car isn't readily identifiable once they have it. VIN etching provides distinctive markings without decreasing the value of your car. With VIN etching, the vehicle identification number is etched directly onto the auto glass – including windows and the windshield. These etchings will create a permanent record of the car and the legal owner.

Remove the Steering Wheel

This may seem extreme, but thieves can't drive your car if there isn't a steering wheel. Steering wheels can be removed quite easily from classic cars, which makes this a quick and easy way to protect your car from theft. For maximum protection, be sure to crank the wheels before removing the steering wheel. Once the steering wheel is removed, the wheels will be locked in place, which will make it nearly impossible for the car to be moved – even with a tow truck.

Protect your classic car from would-be thieves. The tips provided here will help reduce the chance of theft. For other tips on how to protect your classic car, be sure to speak to your specialty insurance provider. 

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