Hiring a car is fantastic at giving you freedom to explore your destination at your own pace, however being responsible for a vehicle also means staying wary of opportunistic criminals.
Whether it’s a thief who likes the look of valuables through a window or someone attempting to steal the vehicle itself, your hire car being stolen or broken into can turn the holiday from relaxing to stressful.
The good news is that break nis and thefts can be prevented and it’s worth taking a few extra measures to reduce the chance of your vehicle being targeted.
Why Hire Cars Can Be Targeted
Most vehicle crime is opportunistic; criminals are often looking for the easiest target rather than a specific vehicle.
A hire car may attract attention if:
If your car looks like an easy target, it’s more likely to be chosen over others nearby.
Reducing the Risk of Break Ins and Theft
1. Lock up properly
It might sound obvious but many incidents happen because doors are left unlocked or windows aren’t fully closed.
Before you walk away from the vehicle, check that all doors, windows, sunroofs and the boot are secure. If your rental uses keyless entry, don’t assume it has locked automatically – make sure to manually check.
Make sure to double check the doors are locked before you walk away and ensure all windows, sunroofs and boots are fully shut.
Don’t solely rely on keyless entry, make sure to check manually that the vehicle is properly locked.
2. Keep valuables out of sight
Leaving belongings visible inside the vehicle would be a top reason for thieves to target your car.
To prevent this, take your valuables with you wherever possible. If you do need to leave items in the vehicle, place them in the boot before arriving at your destination rather than transferring them after you’ve parked.
Items that can attract unwanted attention include:
Even low-value items could encourage someone to take a chance and break a window if they think something more valuable is hidden inside.
ReduceMyExcess policies include cover for personal possessions meaning with one of our policies you’ll be reimbursed up to £300 per claim (£75 per item), if your belongings are taken from the car.
3. Park somewhere safe
Where you park can make a big difference. Where possible, choose:
If you’re staying overnight, secure hotel parking, a garage or a private driveway is usually safer than leaving the vehicle on the street.
4. Protect the keys
If a thief has manages to get ahold of the keys, a vehicle doesn’t have to be broken into.
Treat your hire car keys as carefully as you would your passport. Avoid leaving them unattended in restaurants, on tables, in beach bags or near the entrance of your accommodation.
If the vehicle you’ve hired uses keyless entry, consider storing the keys in a signal-blocking pouch and keep them away from doors and windows to reduce the risk of relay theft.
5. Use visible security measures
Thieves prefer easy wins so having visible security measures in place can be enough to make the vehicle less attractive and encourage them to move on.
Consider:
Even the most simple, basic deterrents can make a difference.
6. Be careful at tourist hotspots
Popular attractions, beaches, viewpoints and hiking routes can be common locations for vehicle crime.
In these areas, thieves will know some tourists leave luggage, passports, electronics and shopping in their vehicles as they explore.
If you’re parking for several hours, avoid leaving anything valuable behind and make sure the vehicle is properly secure before you leave.
Could I Be Charged If My Hire Car Is Broken Into or Stolen?
Yes you potentially could. Your car hire agreement is likely to see you responsible for certain costs if the vehicle is damaged during a break-in or is stolen whilst in your care.
Things that might lead to you being charged include:
Even if the theft or break in wasn’t your fault, costs can still be applied under your excess. The excess charges depend on your rental agreement but this can run into hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
What Should You Do if Your Hire Car is Broken Into or Stolen?
Even after taking all the necessary steps, incidents can still happen. If they do:
Read our article on what to do if you find your hire car broken into or stolen for more advice. The important thing to remember is you’ll need to keep all your documentation if you want to make a claim with us later.
How Car Hire Excess Insurance Can Help
If the rental company charges you an excess following a break in, attempted theft or vehicle theft, car hire excess insurance may reimburse eligible excess charges, subject to the terms of your policy.
This can help protect you from unexpected costs that could otherwise leave you significantly out of pocket.
Car hire companies do offer their own excess waiver products at the desk but standalone policies like the ones we offer at ReduceMyExcess are often a lot cheaper whilst also providing broader cover.
FAQs
Not necessarily but hire cars can sometimes attract attention because they are often used by tourists who may be carrying luggage, cameras or other valuables.
You may be responsible for certain damage costs under your rental agreement, even if the break-in wasn’t your fault. The exact charges will depend on the rental company’s terms and conditions.
You should contact the police and rental company immediately. Depending on your rental agreement, you may be charged an excess relating to the theft of the vehicle.
A locked boot is generally safer than leaving belongings visible inside the cabin, but valuable items should never be left in a vehicle for longer than necessary.
Many policies cover theft-related excess charges and damage resulting from theft or attempted theft, but cover varies between insurers. Always check your policy wording for full details.
Comments are closed