Are older cars less likely to be stolen? It depends. Some people may think that older cars are more likely to be targeted because of their age. The truth is, it doesn't matter whether a vehicle is old or new, there are various reasons why vehicles may be at risk of being stolen.
In this blog, we discuss whether old cars are more or less likely to be stolen, share useful safety tips, and explain how Cartrack’s vehicle tracking systems can help you keep your vehicle safe and sound.
Car theft is a major concern for car owners, regardless of their make and model, and you might be wondering whether older cars are less likely to be stolen compared to newer models. There are many factors that put a car at risk of theft, and the age of a vehicle is just one of them. Here are a few reasons an older car may be the likely pick in some cases:
Older cars have a timeless appeal that many still enjoy, especially popular ones. Criminals steal these vehicles, strip them, and sell their parts, which include the engine and the interior. These are then sold on the black market for a profit.
Many car enthusiasts love the nostalgia that comes with vintage or limited-edition cars. These cars are very popular and in high demand because they are unique collector's items. As a result, they may be targeted by criminals because they are easy to sell.
Old vehicles lack the advanced security features that are present in newer cars. These are features such as immobiliser remotes and motion sensors, and the lack of these features can make them an easy target for theft compared to newer models.
Criminal enterprises target vehicles to sell their parts and are used for other illicit activities. Criminals alter the identity of stolen vehicles by creating fake documents, putting up fake number plates, and changing the VIN. In some cases, they may spray the car a different colour, making it harder to trace and allowing them to commit other crimes without detection.
Many old classics from the 80s and 90s still roam the streets today, but let's face it, they don’t have the advanced security features that modern cars have. This makes them more vulnerable to theft, which is why security systems such as alarms and vehicle tracking devices are a good investment to protect them against criminal elements.
Cross-border smuggling is a frequent occurrence in South Africa; reports in recent years indicate that criminal syndicates target older cars and ship them into neighbouring countries such as Zimbabwe and Mozambique. These syndicates use false documents to get the cars into neighbouring countries where they are reregistered and sold, stripped for parts, and in some instances, used to commit other crimes.
There is a popular saying that says, “There are two sides to a coin.” and in terms of old vehicle theft, it is also true. As much as there are reasons why old cars are more likely to be stolen, there are also factors why they are less likely to be stolen.
Here are the common factors:
Old vehicles have a lower value than newer ones, which means the resale value is much lower. This makes these cars less appealing to criminals wanting to make a big profit.
It may be true that there are old cars that are still popular. However, many old models are less popular, meaning criminals get less for them, which could deter them from targeting the car.
Old cars don’t have the modern technology that new ones have. These technologies, such as keyless systems, can be hacked easily, which makes them more attractive to criminals. However, the absence of these technologies in old cars may make them hard to steal.
Are you wondering how you can go about protecting your vehicle? There are various methods you can use to protect your vehicle. Here are a few you can use to minimise the risk of your vehicle being stolen, whether old or new:
Are you concerned about the safety of your older vehicle? While classic cars and older models can hold sentimental or financial value, they also face increased risks of theft. Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to safeguard your vehicle. Whether your car is vintage or simply old, implementing these security measures will help minimise the risk of it being stolen.
A steering wheel lock, although an old-school security measure, is a cheap and simple tool you can use to deter criminals. These locks fit directly on the steering wheel, making it impossible to turn it. This is an effective way to discourage car thieves from breaking into the car.
If you own an old car that wasn’t fitted with standard immobilisers, no need to worry. You can purchase one from several companies that sell after-market immobilisers. These anti-theft devices work by disabling the fuel and ignition systems that are used to start the vehicle. This may not prevent a criminal from breaking into your car, but it will stop them from driving off with it.
You may think that this is an obvious one, but many motorists forget to lock their doors, especially when they’re making a quick stop at a local supermarket or petrol station. Before leaving your car, it is recommended that you lock your car and then check every door handle to make sure that it is locked. By doing this, you can protect yourself against possible signal-jamming attempts, which work by disrupting the signal between your remote and your car when you’re trying to lock your car.
One of the safest ways to protect your vehicle is to park it in a safe and secure area. When out shopping, park close to where there is security patrolling. In a case where you have to park your car on the street, make sure you park it in a well-lit area where there is a lot of traffic.
A car alarm is another effective theft deterrent system; it serves as a way to alert you or people close to your car that there is unauthorised tampering of your car. These systems are considered a good security measure as they are active at all times and go off immediately as soon as someone gains unauthorised access to your car.
VIN etching is a cost-effective way to secure your vehicle. It is done by engraving the vehicle’s unique vehicle identification number (VIN) on several parts of your car such as windows and mirrors, to make them recognisable for the authorities.
VIN etching does not guarantee that thieves won't try to steal a car, however, this method can help police or tracking companies recover the vehicle as it makes identifying and matching the stolen vehicle with the registration documents easier.
Installing a GPS tracking system in your old vehicle is crucial and one of the best things you can do for your peace of mind. This technology protects against theft and provides recovery services in the event your vehicle is stolen.
Using the tips above is a great way to protect your old car and keep criminals at bay. However, there is an even more effective way to protect your vehicle, and that is by installing a tracking device.
Investing in a vehicle tracking system like Cartrack is more than just a safety measure. It's a choice to ensure your peace of mind. They are one of the country's preferred tracking companies boasting an over 90% stolen vehicle recovery rate, ensuring that you are covered and supported at all times. Here's how:
You may think that old cars are less likely to be stolen, but the reality is that they remain a target of theft. By familiarising yourself with the risks and using the security tips provided, you can minimise the chances of your vehicle being stolen.
Cartrack’s vehicle tracking systems are a reliable solution to protect your vehicle; it doesn’t matter how old it is, it will be covered.
Make the move and safeguard your car today. Contact Cartrack now!
Q: Are there areas in South Africa where old cars are more at risk?
A: There are specific areas and regions in South Africa, namely, Gauteng and the Western Cape, that are more threatening to old cars. However, it is advisable to always take measures to protect your car.
Q: Are there specific car types that thieves prefer?
A: Yes, there are vehicle types that are targeted frequently, such as sedans, hatchbacks, and coupes. These are the most stolen cars because of the high demand for them or their parts.
Q. Are certain car colours targeted more than others?
A: The colour of your car may not be a major reason why your vehicle is targeted. However, common colours like white, black, and silver may be more attractive to thieves as they can blend into surrounding traffic or congested roads.
Q: Can I install modern, advanced security features into my old car?
A: Yes, most security features, such as immobilisers, GPS tracking systems, and alarms, are compatible with older vehicles and are a great addition to your vehicle's security.
Q: Will installing a tracking device in my old car reduce my insurance premium?
A: Yes, it will. When you install a tracking device in your vehicle it increases the chances of it being recovered in the event it is stolen or hijacked. This is a factor that insurance companies consider that reduces your insurance premium.
Are old cars at higher risk of theft? Find out if older cars are more likely to be stolen and how Cartrack’s advanced tracking solutions can keep your vehicle safe.
