Classic cars are an investment of your time and money, as well as being something we all love and treasure. Often, classic cars are be more vulnerable to theft and damage due to their higher value and often outdated security features. So, whether you’re protecting your vehicle from theft or fire, it’s essential to take proactive steps. Here are some tips on how to protect your classic car, keeping it safe and secure.
Car Security
Although classic cars often lack the modern security features we take for granted today, there are plenty of options to help keep your vehicle secure.
- Immobilisers: Installing an immobiliser is one of the most effective ways to deter thieves. Immobilisers disable the engine unless a correct key or fob is used, making it extremely difficult for thieves to drive away with your vehicle. Some classics have them as a standard. One example is the Nissan Figaro—our Mabel has one! Be sure when adding new parts into classics that you’re taking the proper precautions – faulty wiring can go south fast!
- Trackers: A GPS tracker can completely change things around if your classic car is stolen. These devices allow you and law enforcement to track the location of your car in real-time. Some tracking systems also offer additional features like geofencing, where you’ll receive an alert if the car leaves a designated area.
- Disklok: One of the simplest and most visible deterrents, a Disklok is a steering wheel lock that prevents the wheel from being turned. Its bright, bulky design serves as a strong deterrent to would-be thieves, who are less likely to target a vehicle with visible security devices in place.
- Dash Cams: Installing a dash cam in your classic car not only helps in case of accidents but also serves as a deterrent against theft. Some dash cams offer 24/7 monitoring, recording suspicious activity around your vehicle and alerting you to any attempted break-ins. There are countless options for these online (one of the more popular brands is the Nextbase), and they can be hardwired into your vehicle using a few simple tools or just plugged into the cigarette lighter.
- Locking Wheel Nuts: Thieves often target valuable parts of classic cars, and wheels are no exception. Installing locking wheel nuts adds an extra layer of security, preventing thieves from easily removing and stealing your wheels.
Physical Building Security
Where and how you store your classic car plays a significant role in its security. If you keep your vehicle in a garage or storage facility, taking steps to reinforce the building’s security is crucial.
- Garage Door Security: Install a high-quality, secure garage door with additional locking mechanisms. Adding a reinforced lock or even a deadbolt to your garage door can significantly reduce the risk of a break-in.
- CCTV and Alarms: A good security camera system or motion-sensing alarm can go a long way in preventing theft. Visible cameras are a strong deterrent to thieves, and alarms can quickly alert you or the authorities if there’s an attempted break-in. You can even get systems that are the same brand as your dash cam, so it can all be accessed from one app.
- Lighting: Ensure your storage area is well-lit, both inside and outside. Motion-activated lights are a great way to scare off potential thieves; or the occasional cat that wanders up your drive, and they can help capture better footage if you’re using CCTV cameras.
Minimise the Risk of Theft
Theft prevention starts with reducing the risk factors. Some practical habits can make all the difference in ensuring your car remains safe.
- Don’t Leave Valuables Inside: Leaving anything valuable, such as tools or classic car memorabilia, in your car could make it a target. Even small, seemingly insignificant items might tempt a thief to break in. This can include Car Play units. Some stereo faces can be popped off the front and taken out of the vehicle to make them even safer.
- Be Mindful of Where You Park: If you’re parking your car outside, especially for a long period, choose well-lit, highly visible locations. Thieves are less likely to target cars in areas where they can be easily spotted.
- Use a Car Cover: If you’re parking outside, a car cover can not only protect your vehicle from the elements but also deter opportunistic thieves. They won’t know exactly what’s underneath and might pass it by for an easier target.
Fire Safety
Fire can be one of the most devastating threats to a classic car, particularly for older vehicles with carburettors and less sophisticated electrical systems. Taking a few fire safety precautions can protect your investment.
- Install a Fire Extinguisher: Every classic car owner should have a fire extinguisher easily accessible in their vehicle. Choose an extinguisher designed specifically for automotive fires and ensure it’s mounted in a way that allows for quick access in an emergency.
- Battery Disconnect Switches: Classic cars can sometimes have electrical systems prone to short-circuiting, which can cause fires. A battery disconnect switch allows you to easily cut off power from the car’s electrical system when it’s not in use, reducing the risk of an electrical fire.
Protect Your Asset
It’s important that your car is protected not just from theft, but also for the cost of replacement or repair, should the need arise. With a classic car insurance valuation from us, you can make sure that your car is also safe from financial loss. A proper valuation ensures that in the unfortunate event of theft, damage, or even fire, you’re properly covered by your insurance.
Classic cars often appreciate in value, especially if you’ve put the time and energy into a nice restoration, and standard insurance policies may not account for this increase. By getting a professional valuation from us, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing your car’s true worth is documented, giving you the confidence that, should the worst happen, you’re well protected.
At the end of the day, keeping your classic car secure is about being proactive and prepared—because peace of mind is priceless.