Millions of cars are stolen each year.

However, if you follow these tips, you can prevent your car from being one of them.

1) Roll Up Your Windows

It may seem like common sense, but many people leave their windows down when they park their car.  By leaving them down, you are making your car an easy target.  If you want to crack your windows, make sure it is less than the width of a finger.

2) Hide Valuables

To minimize the appeal of your car to thieves, do not leave valuables in plain sight.  Hide them in your trunk or glove compartment or take them with you.  Leaving computers, MP3 players or shopping bags in your car could possibly result in a broken window and a police report.

3) Purchase a Good Car Alarm

A good car alarm will help deter thieves from stealing your vehicle.  The loud piercing noise they make is enough to make them run once it sounds.  Make sure it is loud enough that you can hear from far away.  Also, make sure it is distinct and not too sensitive (you don’t want it to go off if someone brushes against your car).

4) Post an Alarm Sticker in Your Car

Even if you don’t have a car alarm installed, putting a sticker on the window can act as a deterrent.  Most thieves will not check to see if the sticker is tied to a real alarm or not.  They will move on to find a car that does not advertise an alarm system.

These tips will help you make sure that you do not become a victim of car theft.  You can keep thieves away and prevent all of the trouble that goes along with it.