Auto theft has become big business and is no longer just a small time crime. Older model cars are more likely to be stolen than newer cars for their parts and often car owners don't think someone would be interested in their vehicle. In fact in 2007, the 1995 Honda Civic, the 1991 Honda Accord and the 1989 Toyota Camry were the top 3 most stolen vehicles in the United States. The NICB reports that in America there are 2 cars stolen every minute.

To protect yourself from having your car stolen the NICB suggests following a layered approach to protecting your vehicle. The first layer is common sense to car security, the second is installing a car alarm, third is to install a car alarm system that provides GPS tracking and then lastly the fourth layer is to implement some form of immobilizing car alarm security.

Layer 1 - Common Sense

Use common sense about protecting your vehicle and always lock your doors, keep windows closed and never leave your car idling. Along with using these simple methods pay attention to where you park and if possible always park in a secure enclosure such as a garage or in your driveway.

Layer 2 - Car Alarm Systems

Have a car alarm system professionally installed. Audible car alarm systems attract attention to would-be thieves and help deter someone from attempting to break in or steal your car. Car alarms are similar to a barking dog and theives are more willing to move on to the next unprotected vehicle instead of taking a risk.

Layer 3 - GPS Car Alarm Systems

Advanced car alarms can include a GPS tracking system. These systems can be monitored via computer by security agencies and the police. If your car alarm is set when the vehicle is stolen it can notify you via text message or page and also alert authorities. Your vehicle can then be traced and easily located. The faster a car is located the less likely anyone will have time to strip the parts that can be sold other wise.

Layer 4 - Immobilizing Car Alarms

Even more advance car alarm systems can also include immobilizing functions that shut off fuel systems or electrical features needed for your vehicle to run. These systems can cause the car to stop running and prevent thieves from making it any further down the road. These types of car security systems are by far the most successful.

Professional theives can steal almost any car but why make it any easier for them to steal yours. Often the slightest deterent can stop a car theif however utilizing the layered approach suggested by the NCIB you can gurantee that a would be theif thinks twice before attempting to steal your vehicle. Not all car alarms work for everyone but combining several car security features can definitely make a theif work for yours!