Parking your car for an extended period can be a cause for concern, especially when it comes to its safety. Whether you’re going on a long vacation or leaving your car at the airport, taking the right precautions can give you peace of mind while you’re away. In this blog post, we’ll explore various ways to ensure the safety of your car when parking long term.
Choose the Right Location
Secure Parking Facilities
The first and most important step is to choose a secure parking location. Opt for well-lit, monitored parking facilities with security features like CCTV cameras, access control systems, and security guards. These facilities may charge a fee, but the added protection often outweighs the cost. It is not always the easiest to compare and consider your options, that is why you need a guide. Say you want to fly from Manchester to your favourite vacation spot but you are not sure what is the best place to leave your car. You can just search for “parking manchester airport” and Parkos will provide you with all the information that you need.
Residential Areas
If you find yourself in a situation where you don’t have access to a secure parking facility, it is worth considering parking your vehicle in a residential area that is known for its low crime rates. This will provide you with a sense of security and peace of mind while you are away from your vehicle. Before you decide to park in such an area, it is essential to seek permission from the property owner to avoid any misunderstandings or violations of their privacy.
Once you have obtained the necessary permission, it’s a good idea to inform your neighbours of your plans to park your vehicle in their vicinity. Let them know the duration of your absence and provide them with your contact information in case they need to get in touch with you regarding your vehicle. This will not only help build trust with your neighbours but also encourage them to keep an eye on your vehicle while you are away, providing an additional layer of security.
Remove Valuables
Leaving valuables in your car can attract potential thieves. Before parking, ensure that you remove all expensive items, such as electronics, cash, and jewellery. Even small items like phone chargers can be tempting for thieves. Additionally, remove important documents like your registration and insurance information to prevent identity theft.
Use Security Devices
Investing in security devices can deter theft and vandalism. Consider the following options:
Steering Wheel Lock
A steering wheel lock is a simple yet effective device that prevents the steering wheel from turning. This makes it difficult for thieves to drive your car away.
Tire Lock
A tire lock, also known as a wheel clamp or boot, is a device that immobilises your car by locking one of its wheels. It’s highly visible and acts as a strong deterrent for potential thieves.
Car Alarm
A car alarm can scare away criminals attempting to break into your vehicle. Opt for a sophisticated alarm system that alerts you or the security company when triggered.
GPS Tracker
A GPS tracker allows you to monitor your car’s location remotely. In case your car is stolen, you can provide the authorities with its real-time location, increasing the chances of recovery.
Keep Your Car Well-Maintained
A well-maintained car is less likely to attract attention from thieves. Before parking, ensure that your car is clean, and all maintenance issues are addressed. This includes fixing any broken windows, doors, or locks.
Cover Your Car
A car cover can protect your vehicle from the elements and make it less visible to potential thieves. Choose a high-quality cover that fits your car perfectly and is made of durable materials.
Disconnect the Battery
When planning to leave your car unattended for an extended duration, it’s highly recommended to disconnect the battery. This not only adds a layer of security by making it more challenging for potential thieves to start and drive away with your vehicle, but it also safeguards your car against unforeseen electrical complications.
Disconnecting the battery can help preserve its overall lifespan and maintain the integrity of your vehicle’s electrical components. Over time, even when not in use, batteries can lose charge through what’s known as parasitic drain. By disconnecting the battery, you can prevent this slow depletion and ensure that your car is ready to start when you return.
Additionally, long-term storage of a vehicle with a connected battery could lead to corrosion issues, affecting both the battery terminals and the cables. Disconnecting the battery during extended periods of inactivity will help minimize the risk of corrosion, ultimately saving you time and money on potential repairs.