Your car is probably one of your most valuable possessions and possibly the most vulnerable.
Motor vehicle crime is a serious problem with thousands of cars being stolen or broken into every year.

Security Precautions

1. Items that could potentially attract a thief should not be left on display.
2. Lock all doors, windows, boots and sunroofs, regardless of how briefly you're leaving your vehicle unattended.
3. Never leave the ignition key in the vehicle - even a concealed spare key, as it may be found.
4. If an alarm is fitted, always turn it on when leaving your vehicle unattended.
5. Remove the car stereo if possible, and whether removable or not, equipment should be marked and a note made of the serial number.

Parking

The location of a parked vehicle can be a determining factor in whether it is targeted by thieves.

1. If parking at night, avoid poorly-lit or isolated streets without much activity.
2. Where feasible park in locations that have camera surveillance.
3. At home the car should be locked in a garage if available, lock both the car and the garage.
4. Where garaging is not available park in the driveway near a sensor light.

Reducing the Risk

The risk of theft can be reduced by adding security devices to your vehicle.

1. Vehicle Alarm System
2. Immobiliser
3. Lockable fuel cap
4. Ignition cut out switch or ignition shield
5. Fuel cut out switch
6. Battery isolator
7. Steering wheel lock
8. Hand brake lock
9. Transmission lock
10. Wheel lock

Vehicle Security Star Rating Scale



For more information visit the NZSA website.

Purchasing a used motor vehicle

It is advisable to observe sensible practices when evaluating a vehicle for purchase. A private sale does not contain the same protection to the consumer as when purchasing through a Licensed Motor Vehicle Dealer.

Treat with caution advertisements that specify a set time to telephone as it's possible that the number may be a public phone box or an address of an associate of the seller.
When phoning, avoid describing the vehicle - advise that you are enquiring about the car advertised for sale, the person is then be obliged to declare whether there is more than one vehicle on sale. You will then determine whether the seller is a dealer, or a private person who may be dubious.

A dishonest seller is unlikely to allow a prospective purchaser to visit a home address. Ask if you can go to them rather than have the person bring the vehicle to you.

Know where to find the engine and chassis numbers, and check for signs of any interference. You can check that the numbers match those on the registration papers. Check the registration papers for any sign of tampering. If the seller does not produce the registration papers, ask why, and consider asking for personal identification.

When registration papers are unavailable, ownership records may be obtained by attending any Post Office, paying a small fee, and completing an information request form.

Do not purchase a motor vehicle without first confirming the seller's title to ownership. It can also be queried whether any finance is owed on the vehicle by telephoning Auto Check on 0800 909 777. The registration number, chassis and vehicle identification number will need to be supplied to Auto Check, who will advise of any outstanding hire purchase or financial interest.



Your car is probably one of your most valuable possessions and possibly the most vulnerable.
As a preferred alarm supplier for NAC Insurance, clients may receive a 7.5% discount on the purchase of their AutoWatch alarm unit.  To take advantage of this offer, simply call 0800 428 869 and quote your policy number.



You can receive discounts on your theft excess with NAC Insurance if you install a BlackHawk asset tracking system. BlackHawk Vehicle Tracking Systems use GPS technology and enable you to track your car, motorcycle, truck, or any other vehicle with a battery either by mobile phone or the Blackhawk website (www.theblackhawk.co.nz). If your vehicle moves without the system being deactivated, you will be notified by text message. BlackHawk's dual immobilisers allow you to immobilise your vehicle by text message the next time it stops.

Recommended Retail Price for the BlackHawk Tracking Systems is $899.00 including GST for the base model and $1,199.00 for the advanced model, which includes the dual immobilisers and remote door lock. NAC Insurance customers can receive a 15% discount on both of these models by quoting a referral number. Speak to one of the NAC sales staff about this great offer.