Five Most Stolen Gadgets
Car Stereos
Even if you're not carrying a GPS unit, chances are you still have a stereo system in your car. While stereo theft is down due to the variety in models and sizes, custom decks, speakers, and other equipment are still prime for theft – thanks a lot, 'Pimp My Ride' – due to their high value.
How to prevent theft (or minimize the consequences of theft):
- Always remove the faceplate, if applicable. Take it with you or lock it somewhere else, like the trunk – many people leave them in the glove compartment, which does little to deter theft.
- Use security codes. Certain stereos come with a pin number that must be entered before the unit will work. Without knowing it, the stereo is useless to criminals.
- Get a loud car alarm. Yes, the neighbors will hate you, but you can minimize the noise complaints by placing stickers in your windows advertising that you have one.
- Log serial numbers for everything. It'll make it easier to track your device once it gets back on the market.
- Park in well-lit areas. Thieves are less likely to break in to a car that can be seen by everyone.
- Get a head unit that hides itself. The JVC El Kameleon is a car stereo that retracts its controls and blacks out its LCD display when the power is off, making it hard for criminals to see.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
manpie2000 @ Feb 1st 2008 12:07PM
I used to have a Kameleon stereo in my car. Thieves know exactly what they're looking for. I only had mine for a few months before they broke out my door handle to get into my car and remove it. $2500 worth of damage to the car. Wish they'd have broken the window, it would only cost $50 to fix that.
Alex @ Feb 1st 2008 12:39PM
NO MORE CAR ALARMS!!! Yes, your neighbors WILL hate you and the alarm won't do anything but piss people off. NYC considered banning them altogether. I think they should be banned nationwide. Whoever wrote that suggestions obviously doesn't have to hear them on a regular basis.
pentastar @ Feb 1st 2008 12:39PM
factory units have no value for theives. chrysler has units that have i-pod interfaces that allow you to leave your i-pod in glove box.they also have amp units and subwoofers that are interfaceable.
esubi81 @ Feb 1st 2008 1:13PM
When it comes to stereos, nothing works, except insurance of course. But if you're like me and can't get full coverage on a salvaged car, then i think the next best thing is to BOLT THE THING DOWN!!! Some stores like circuit city will actually do it for free if you just ask. I guess after having several stereos stolen from my car, I just get some sense of satisfaction knowing that this low life struggled soooo much to get something out and couldn't. Remember to remove your faceplate especially in dark areas though because they will take it out of spite, those bastards.
leslie @ Feb 1st 2008 7:23PM
omg let me tell you that taking out the faceplate doesn't deter the thieves AT ALL! I've had my decks stolen (twice) but NEVER my faceplate (because they couldnt find it). I never understood, why would they even bother taking the deck if they dont have the faceplate? it totally sucked.
jesse @ Apr 15th 2008 10:26AM
i just had my car broken in to it sucks took the radio 4 6x9s 4 61/2 s 2 12s and a 1000 watt amp busted window to boot