{"id":122737,"date":"2024-11-21T21:47:12","date_gmt":"2024-11-22T05:47:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=122737"},"modified":"2025-03-12T19:43:04","modified_gmt":"2025-03-13T02:43:04","slug":"security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-vehicle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-vehicle\/","title":{"rendered":"Security Upgrades and Accessories for Your Vehicle"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column122737_ee2099-4b inner-column-1 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-37ed61  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-062b4e\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40 summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading122737_18ee3c-40\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Every 32 seconds, a motor vehicle is stolen in the US.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Installing an upgraded alarm siren, repairing faulty door locks, and mounting a dash camera in your vehicle are some ways to improve your ride&rsquo;s security.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Other ways to keep your vehicle secure include installing smart car features, tinting your windows, and practicing good parking habits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), one motor vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the US. This makes security upgrades a priority, especially if you travel a lot and frequently park on the street. Luckily, there are parts and accessories you can buy to keep your vehicle and its contents from being targeted by thieves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Parts and Accessories to Replace or Upgrade to Deter Thieves<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"security upgrades and accessories for your car\" class=\"wp-image-122743\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-car.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">security upgrades and accessories for your car<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Upgrading your alarm siren, replacing a failed car door lock, mounting a dash camera, installing a wheel lock set, and getting a steering wheel lock are some of the ways you can improve vehicle security without spending an arm and a leg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alarm Siren<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/alarm-siren\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"alarm siren\">alarm siren<\/a> is a warning device that produces a loud sound to alert owners and deter thieves in the event of unauthorized entry. The siren itself is connected to sensors that transmit signals when your car is hit, the security system is breached, or the roll sensor is triggered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&rsquo;s necessary to install alarms if you own an older unit that doesn&rsquo;t have them or replace a faulty alarm siren when it starts malfunctioning. Alarm sirens are relatively affordable. You may spend anywhere between $30 and $300 when buying parts online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Car Door Lock<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A defective <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/door-lock?itemperpage=20&amp;currentpage=1&amp;sort=price-high\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"door lock\">door lock<\/a> is essentially an invitation for thieves. It&rsquo;s one of the many reasons why you should consider getting an upgrade. Even if the factory locks are still intact, you can get new locks with added safety features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While you can attempt to replace the defective lock, it may be better to take your car to an expert to ensure the replacement works. After all, something that involves your safety is worth spending money on. You have a lot of options as to where to take your vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can visit a local auto repair shop or your car&rsquo;s dealership for lock replacement services. Alternatively, you may hire a locksmith who specializes in automotive locks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can get replacement locks for as low as $10. Upgrading to keyless entry systems with more advanced safety features may cost you over $200.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dash Camera<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/dash-camera\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"dash camera\">dash camera<\/a> in your vehicle can make it easy to determine which party is at fault during a crash. Aside from that, some cameras can record your vehicle&rsquo;s surroundings even when parked. Video recordings can help you identify thieves in case someone attempts to break into your car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best part about dash cams is that they&rsquo;re relatively affordable and easy to install. Considering its price, getting one should be one of your top priorities after buying a vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wheel Lock Set<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/wheel-lock-set\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Wheel locks\">Wheel locks<\/a> are specialized lug nuts that make it harder for thieves to remove and steal your wheels. These round locks have uniquely shaped slots with matching sockets that act as the key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They prevent thieves from stealing your wheel, as typical lug nuts can be removed using only a lug wrench and a jack. Wheel locks have varying designs, making it close to impossible for thieves to unlock them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wheel locks are relatively inexpensive. A single lock costs around $35, while an entire set may cost you $120 or more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steering Wheel Lock<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Steering wheel locks are devices that prevent a vehicle from being driven away. They have a bar you attach to the steering wheel, making it impossible to turn. You may choose from traditional bar locks, wheel-to-pedal locks, and locks that cover the entire steering wheel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Catalytic Converter Shield<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The catalytic converter contains precious metals that cost a lot of money when sold. This makes them a common target for thieves looking to make an easy profit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Catalytic converter <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/catalytic-converter-security-shield\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"security shields are metal\">security shields are metal<\/a> plates that cover the device, which can be linked to a customized alarm system. Installing one on your ride can help deter thieves from targeting your vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other Ways To Upgrade Vehicle Security<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other ways to keep your vehicle secure include using trackers, tinting your windows, and protecting the catalytic converter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Install Tracking Apps or Devices<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some mobile apps and devices use today&rsquo;s ever-evolving technology to improve vehicle safety. These can help you keep track of your car&rsquo;s location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, some trackers plug into the OBD port and provide real-time tracking in addition to speed monitoring and diagnostics. This makes finding your car easier if it gets stolen, granted the thief doesn&rsquo;t notice the tracker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are also compact devices you can attach anywhere on your car using a magnet, which is better than placing a tracker since you can hide it from sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tint Your Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tinted windows help protect your privacy, filter harmful UV rays, and keep your belongings hidden from prying eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Standard window films usually cost between $200 and $400 to install, while high-performance ceramic tints range from $400 to $600.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Be Aware of Your Surroundings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lastly, there are habits you can pick up to improve your car&rsquo;s security. These include being more vigilant about your surroundings when parking in an unfamiliar location, choosing a well-lit parking slot, moving to a different location if suspicious individuals are loitering around the area, and not leaving any valuables inside your car.<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), one motor vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the US&#8230;. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-vehicle\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":122741,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[53,3768],"tags":[3807,4378,3956,1622,3797],"ppma_author":[2607,2985],"class_list":["post-122737","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-features","category-lifestyle","tag-alarm-siren","tag-catalytic-converter-security-shield","tag-dash-camera","tag-door-lock","tag-wheel-lock-set","entry"],"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Security Upgrades and Accessories for Your Vehicle - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Find out what parts and accessories you can install to improve your car\u2019s security as well as other ways you can deter potential thieves.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-vehicle\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Security Upgrades and Accessories for Your Vehicle - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Find out what parts and accessories you can install to improve your car\u2019s security as well as other ways you can deter potential thieves.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-vehicle\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-11-22T05:47:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-03-13T02:43:04+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-vehicle.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2048\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1364\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-vehicle\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/security-upgrades-and-accessories-for-your-vehicle\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"4\",\"name\":\"CarParts.com Research Team\",\"jobTitle\":\"Expert Automotive Writer\",\"description\":\"The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. 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He has produced a coffee table book of digital watercolors called \u201cMemories of South Alabama\u201d created from his personal photos, along with a dozen Christian fiction short original novels and a collection of short stories, all available in Kindle or softcover format. 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