Older cars still valuable...to thieves

Older cars are still susceptible to being stolen.  According to MSN autos, Hot Wheel’s top 10 most stolen cars include: 

1. 1994 Honda Accord
2. 1995 Honda Civic
3. 1989 Toyota Camry
4. 1997 Ford F-150 Pickup
5. 2004 Dodge Ram Pickup
6. 2000 Dodge Caravan
7. 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee
8. 1994 Honda Integra
9. 1999 Ford Taurus
10. 2002 Ford Explorer

Overall auto theft is declining five years in counting, however vehicles like Hot Wheel’s top 10 are eye-catching, and not because of their look, but for their substance.  

According to MSN auto, the parts on these vehicles, especially headlights, tire, catalytic converters and anything made of copper, is highly valuable on the black market.

In addition, owners are less likely to protect an older vehicle, thinking a newer version of their vehicle is more susceptible to theft. On the contrary, new makes and models include standard theft-deterrent systems such as a factory alarm, kill switch, fuel cut-offs, OnStar (standard feature in GMs) and smart keys.  

Does this mean you have to go out and buy a brand new car if you have an older vehicle, especially one listed above? The answer is no. If you don’t have the funds to make a payment and/or comfortable with your current vehicle, take precautions to protect your vehicle. This best defense, and at no cost is you, is lock your doors. And, don’t leave the car running or the key in the ignition just to step away to the ATM, drug store, to pay for gas, etc. Don’t leave valuable items in the car or, at least, have them out of sight, including your purses, bags, and loose change. And, if you’re willing to invest in an anti-theft or theft-recovery system, do! This doesn’t mean buying The Club anti-theft device…I don’t even think they make those anymore. This simple can be an alarm. If you would like more information regarding Auto Expert’s theft-deterrent and/or theft-recovery systems that are installed at your home or work, please contact us at 1-800-359-4567.