10 Ways to Keep Your Car Secure

Man walking after parking his car in a secure parking lot

From returning to a smashed window in the Tesco car park to heading out to your car in the morning only to find it’s vanished; car crimes are all too common in the UK. In fact, every year, the RAC receives more than 150,000 reports of stolen cars, vans, and motorcycles.

So, what will help keep your car secure? Read on for our comprehensive guide to preventing car theft and break ins. We cover a wide range of solutions, from no brainers like locking your vehicle to clever tricks like installing anti-theft number plate screws.

1. Hide ALL valuables

Don’t think that iPhone cord plugged into your USB charger counts as valuable? Think again. Even if your phone is safely stashed away in your pocket, an iPhone cord tells thieves there’s a chance it could be concealed in your glovebox or under the seat. Leaving your charging cord out just isn’t worth the risk. The same goes for items like a gym bag, which may be stuffed with sweaty clothes but could be mistaken as a goldmine by a thief.

2. Lock your car

It may sound ridiculously simple, but locking your car is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent theft. According to Neighbourhood Watch, 44% of all car break ins are via an unlocked door. This means a simple turn of the key or tap of the lock button can drastically reduce the risk of a break in.

3. Install a vehicle tracker

If you’re serious about preventing car theft, installing a personal vehicle tracker is a savvy solution. Designed to track and trace vehicles, these nifty devices keep tabs on your car if it’s taken without your permission. Disclaimer – if your vehicle is stolen don’t go rogue and try to hunt it down yourself. Instead, get in touch with the police and let them take the lead.

4. Use a steering wheel lock

What will help keep your car secure? Most thieves are opportunists so small deterrents like a steering wheel lock can go a long way when it comes to preventing car crime. You’ll find these available from online stores and bricks-and-mortar retailers. The great thing is these locks can be easily fitted to your steering wheel when you’re away from your car.

5. Use public transport in London

Whether you live in London or are just visiting, using public transport is one of the easiest ways to minimise the risk of car break ins and theft. The Capital is one of the most crime-ridden regions in the UK. What’s more, a representative from UK-based company Tracker stated, “It is no surprise that London was the busiest region for vehicle thefts and recoveries in 2020 – it always is. The area accounts for as many recoveries as the next seven regions in our top ten, combined.”

6. Park in a well-lit area

Did you know 80% of all car thefts and break ins occur at night? By parking in a well-lit area, you’re taking away the cover of darkness which can help deter thieves. Ideally, you should park your car in a secure garage overnight. However, if this isn’t possible, try to park under a streetlight. This is one of the easiest solutions when brainstorming what will help keep your car secure.

7. Install anti-theft number plate screws

Personal belongings and the vehicle itself aren’t the only things on the radar of thieves, with number plates also hot property. Stolen plates can be used to evade road tax, steal petrol, and commit other crimes – all under your name. Available from most car accessory stores; anti-theft number plate screws are a shrewd way to deter thieves and keep your plates where they should be.

8. Hide your keys at home

It can be tempting to hang your car keys on a hook next to your front door. Unfortunately, this makes it all too easy for a thief to take off not only with items from your home, but also your car. After breaking into your home, all they need to do is step outside, press the unlock button and look for the flashing lights. So, what will help keep your car secure? Stashing your keys in a drawer or somewhere else out of sight is a simple way to minimise the risk of car theft after a home burglary.

9. Avoid Range Rovers and Land Rovers

Serious car thieves have expensive taste and unfortunately, Range Rovers and Land Rovers top the list as the most stolen vehicles in the UK. Statistically speaking, the chances of your car getting stolen are higher if you own one of these luxury vehicles. That said, they are a pleasure to drive! Therefore, with the right precautions you can enjoy classic models like the Discovery and Defender without having to worry about theft.

10. Upgrade to a newer model

Car manufacturers are continually developing new ways to outsmart thieves. This means when you upgrade to a newer model, you’re also improving your security credentials. For example, the latest Ford models feature intelligent security technology designed to combat keyless entry hackers.

Land Rover is also spearheading the movement with ultra-wide-band radio technology. In short, this is designed to confuse counterfeit fobs and prevent keyless entry thefts. Furthermore, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have taken a similar approach to Ford and installed motion sensors into their keyless fobs to deter thieves.

Keep your car secure by upgrading today

If upgrading to a newer model is on your radar, My Car Credit is here to help. Whether you’re in the market for a nearly-new luxury SUV or a second-hand estate car, our car finance experts can unlock you the best deals in the UK. We’re backed by leading motor finance broker Evolution Funding, meaning we have access to a huge variety of lenders.

It all starts with a quick online quote, with zero impact on your credit score. Once you have a better idea of where you stand, we’ll check your car finance eligibility then scour our lending panel for the best car finance deals in the UK.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Types of Car Headlights and Their Impact on Safety

Car headlights at night

From illuminating dark roads and increasing visibility in low light to warning other drivers about an upcoming hazard. There’s no doubt that car headlights are fundamental to road safety. Most drivers know how to switch between dipped and full beam headlights. However many don’t know the full extent of their car’s capabilities.

A good understanding of what types of car headlights your vehicle has and how to use them is an important part of being a safe driver. Want to know more about how to navigate your way around the dashboard? Read on as we explore the different types of car headlights and their impact on safety.

Types of car headlights

Dipped headlights

The most commonly used types of car headlights, dipped beams are angled towards the ground and light up the road in front of you. Brighter than sidelights, they tend not to be as dazzling as full beam mode. Usually, dipped headlights are operated by a switch on the dashboard or twist function on the indicator rod. It’s also worth noting that many modern cars are equipped with the technology to activate dipped headlights without driver input.

UK Highway Code states that drivers must “use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced” and you’re unable to see more than 100 metres ahead. As well as the dark hours between sunset and sunrise, dipped headlights should also be used in gloomy weather that reduces visibility.

Full beam headlights

The brightest type of car headlight, full beams feature a higher angle that lights up more of the road. Depending on your car make and model, full beams can use either the same or a different set of bulbs to dipped headlights.

Be cautious when using your full beams, as UK Highway Code states you must not “use any lights in a way which would dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users. This includes pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.” They’re generally switched on when driving on unlit stretches of road. Furthermore, they should be turned off when approaching other traffic.

Daytime running lights (DRLs)

Featured in most newer models, daytime running lights are activated with the engine and remain lit throughout your drive. They were standardised in the wake of studies suggesting that vehicles with permanent daylights increase safety and visibility on the road. You don’t need to do anything to activate DRLs, making them one of the easiest and most hassle-free safety enhancers out there. 

Fog lights

Designed to cut through haze and mist, fog lights can drastically increase safety in challenging driving conditions. They’re generally installed at the front and rear of the car, with colour coded switches (green for the front and amber for the back). In most cars you’ll turn on your fog lights by activating dipped mode, then twisting or pressing the fog light switch. The symbol is usually a half moon next to a vertical wavy line interspersed with three horizontal lines.

Hazard warning lights

Visible from all corners of your car, hazard warning lights activate all four indicators at the same time. As such, they are designed to alert other drivers of your stationary position. The amber lights blink in unison and warn other drivers that a hazard is ahead. Scenarios where you might activate this type of car headlight include breaking down on the side of the highway or stopping for a crash. Easy to find, the hazard lights switch is usually identifiable by the red triangle shape.

Indicators

All drivers should be familiar with the ins and outs of indicators. These blinking amber lights let other drivers know your intentions and prepare accordingly. As well as basic corners, don’t forget to indicate when you’re travelling through a roundabout, changing lanes, overtaking and merging.

Brake lights

Like indicators, brake lights are used to alert other drivers of your intentions. They’re activated when you apply the brakes and light up the red bulbs near your taillights. Brake lights should be working at all times, or you risk penalty notices, fines and even points on your licence. 

Sidelights/parking lights

Usually located in the front headlamp unit, sidelights are typically powered by 5W bulbs and are not as bright as your standard headlights. Instead of illuminating the road, these low-powered types of car headlights are designed to increase the visibility of your car. In the UK, sidelights should be switched on when parking your car on roads with speed limits of more than 30mph.

Different types of car headlight bulbs

Car headlight technology is continually advancing, with manufacturers championing energy efficient and eco-friendly bulbs. Today, most new models are powered by three types of bulbs. These are halogen, light emitting diodes (LED) and xenon/high intensity discharge (HID).

Halogen bulbs use a tungsten filament and a mix of gases, usually nitrogen and argon, to create light. While they’re popular, they’re not as bright or inefficient as other options.

LED bulbs, short for light emitting diodes, offer incredible energy efficiency and produce very little heat. They reach full illumination up to 250 times faster than halogen bulbs. For this reason, they are ideal for time-sensitive lights such as brakes and indicators. 

Xenon headlights are a popular choice for luxury cars, using metals and heat gases to create a bright blue or white glow. While the brightness and range of the light is impressive, xenon bulbs can dazzle other drivers and create glare.

Get intuitive with your car headlights

While best-selling models like the 1995 Ford Fiesta were state-of-the-art at the time, technology has advanced in leaps and bounds since then. New cars are designed to make the driving experience as intuitive as possible. For example, user-friendly dashboards and automatic sensor technology that activates many of the different types of car headlights for you.

Sliding behind the wheel of a nearly new 2020 model, you’ll be impressed by five-star safety features. For instance, flashing brake lights are now common, as is an auto high beam function that automatically dips your headlights when oncoming traffic is detected. Furthermore, ultra-efficient LED daytime running lights increase visibility 24/7. It’s not just Ford that’s setting new standards for headlight safety, with other manufacturers also championing smart headlight technology.

If you’re constantly having issues with your car’s headlights, why not upgrade your ride with the help of My Car Credit? Use our car loan APR estimator to find out just how affordable your next car could be.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Top 10 Safest Cars Available to Buy

Family searching for the safest cars to buy

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you’re undoubtedly looking out for one of the safest cars around – particularly if you’re searching for a family upgrade. Driving is great for so many reasons that we hardly need list here, but accidents can still happen. Consequentially, getting behind the wheel of a vehicle that you trust can help ease any concerns you may have.  

As vehicular technology has improved, the safety of cars has also risen – some are even sophisticated enough to prevent accidents from happening in the first place. Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) is an independent organisation that crash-tests new cars, using a star rating to each model depending on its safety. Factors like child protection, adult protection, safety assist systems, and vulnerable road-user protection are all considered. That way, consumers have the ability to gauge which are the safest cars independently of brand marketing. 

We’ve put together a list of the top 10 safest cars according to their tests – read on to find out more. 

The safest cars: Euro NCAP rated 

Every two years, the Euro NCAP toughen up their testing, in order to ensure that the process is as robust as possible. To date, only nine cars have been tested in 2021 – and only seven rank five-star for safety. As such, the top 10 safest cars ranked below are a combination of 2021 and 2020 tested vehicles. 

Don’t worry though, 2020 results are directly comparable to 2021 results – in 2020, the organisation introduced a new series of stringent safety tests which have also rolled over to 2021 testing. The same guidelines will continue to be implemented into 2022 – in 2023, the organisation will introduce updates.  

Let’s take a look at the safest cars in 2021 and 2020 as ranked by the Euro NCAP. 

1. Polestar 2 

This electric car – the second of Polestar’s – ranked consistently for safety across the board, making it the safest car in 2021. Scoring an 86% in the safety assists category, 89% in child protection, and 80% in vulnerable road-user protection, it was near-perfect in adult safety at 93%. The car itself is fairly pricey – but you’re paying for safety. What’s more, its safety will only improve through technology. This is because the car will automatically update via over-the-air software as it progresses. The model also boasts a high-tech cabin and has a significant range for an EV – great for those long-distance UK holidays. 

2. VW ID.4 

Another electric vehicle, the VW ID.4 is practical for families (it’s a 5-door SUV), and its high-tech safety systems – including a hazard warning system – earned it an 85% in safety assist. Plentiful airbags and a sturdy design offer further safety – it beat out its sister car the ID.3 in testing to earn second place in 2021’s safest cars. 

3. Skoda Enyaq 

Unless you’re a real motorhead, you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference between this and the ID.4 – but the latter beat the Enyaq slightly in safety tests. 5% was lost in protecting vulnerable road-users (although it’s still a respectable 71%). In addition, it earned 94% on adult occupant safety rating. It’s also got plenty of space for families – so you don’t have to compromise safety for luggage space. 

4. Cupra Formentor 

If you’re on the hunt for a sports SUV that’s safe but still super fun to drive, the Cupra Formentor might just be for you. It boasts a dearth of cutting-edge safety kit – including automatic emergency braking to help mitigate road accidents. Even better, it achieved the second highest score for adult occupant protection at 93%. 

5. Genesis G80 

Slightly smaller than the Genesis GV80 SUV (listed below), this car nonetheless hit a five-star score for safety, with 91% for adult occupants and 87% for child. It also boasts an impressive suite of safety systems. As well as AEB through to speed assistance, there is also an active bonnet that works to cushion passengers in any emergency. At under £38,000, it’s also reasonably priced for a four-door saloon. 

6. Genesis GV80 

If you have a larger family – or are upgrading your vehicle for maximum space – this is undoubtedly one of the safest cars out there. Head, chest, and centre airbags ensure top marks for protection. Moreover, it secured 91% for adult protection and 87% for child protection scores. 

7. VW ID.3 

A sister to the ID.3 above, this VW is another electric family hatchback. Safety technology includes an advanced e-Call system, as well as land assist and speed assistance systems, earning the ID.3 an 88% in safety assist score. At 87% for adult occupant and 89% for child occupant, it’s a very sturdy option for any family. 

8. Seat Leon 

A firm family favourite, you’ll be pleased to hear that the Seat Leon scored five-stars for safety. Great to drive, plenty of space, and reasonably priced, this car will also keep you and yours safe. At 92% on adult occupant safety and 88% on child occupant safety, you can get behind the wheel knowing you’re well covered. 

9. Honda Jazz 

This car is great for nipping around more urban areas, as it is slightly smaller. It’s still one of the safest cars, however, scoring 87% for adult occupant and 83% for child occupant protection. Safety systems include AEB and one of the highest scores for pedestrian protection – matching only the Polestar 2. 

10. Toyota Yaris 

Toyota’s Safety Sense technology is a particular winner here, helping the Yaris snag an 85% on safety assist score. It may be small, but it’s still pretty mighty. In particular, it has a shape that’s designed to weather crashes well, and an 86% score for adult occupants and 81% for child. Plus, it’s still a five-door hatchback – so there shouldn’t be any irritated crawling over each other as the kids pile in. 

Questions? Talk to My Car Credit today 

If you’re looking to upgrade to one of the safest cars, chances are you’ll have a number of questions – not least ‘can I afford to buy a car’? My Car Credit is on hand to help with any queries you might have about car finance to fund your purchase. 

What’s more, we can help you find your next car through our approved dealers stock list. Check out quality used and nearly new cars from dealers we rate highly.  

With a large network of lenders, we’re committed to finding a fair, affordable deal for all drivers, whatever their credit history. Call us today on 01246 458 810 to find out more. 
 

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!