Vivint Authorized Retailer Toledo
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Toledo & Surrounding Areas

How to deter car break-ins in Toledo

March 05, 2025
Thief breaking into a white automobile in a residential neighborhood

Auto theft and break-ins are a growing problem throughout our nation. Per the National Insurance Crime Bureau, in excess of one million vehicles were documented stolen in 2022. It’s not merely the amount that’s unsettling, but also where the crimes occur, as they’re typically right where we live. Thankfully, there are several precautions you can take to deter car break-ins in Toledo. See what they are and learn how your smart home can improve protection.

Take steps to deter car break-ins and theft

Vehicle theft and break-ins are generally opportunistic actions, so don’t entice unscrupulous actors by leaving valuable belongings in plain view or keys in a storage compartment. Always follow these common-sense tips:

  • Park in well-illuminated locations and choose lots with on-site staff or security cameras when possible. Vehicles positioned in higher-traffic areas are also less prone to be singled out
  • Keep valuable possessions out of sight. If you have to leave pricy items in your ride, move them to the glove compartment or trunk.
  • Lock doors and close windows, even when parking in your garage. You might overlook shutting your garage door, particularly during warmer times of the year.
  • Never keep keys inside your automobile. 
  • Avoid leaving your vehicle idling without you inside. It only takes a few seconds for someone to steal it.
  • Install deterrents like a car alarm system or a steering-wheel lock.

Video cameras help shield cars in Toledo

The majority of prowlers will avoid burglarizing a vehicle or house if they spot surveillance cameras. You can make your cameras even more evident by opting for ones equipped with active deterrents. If a burglar enters the detection zone, your camera will promptly respond by triggering an alarm or brightening a light. A critical element of your property’s protection, surveillance is an outstanding tool for discouraging car break-ins, specifically if you typically park vehicles in the driveway.

When choosing surveillance cameras, look for features like:

  • 1080p HD resolution for precise imaging
  • Night vision, as many break-ins occur at darker hours. Even when using night vision, you’ll want to make certain you have adequate lighting, particularly around your garage.
  • Wide-angle viewing to get a full picture of the front of your house, including your driveway
  • Advanced detection that can recognize the difference between cars, people, and animals
  • Incorporated motion-activated lighting

The leading video cameras will incorporate seamlessly into your automated home. If a camera notices suspicious activity, you’ll get an instant alert through the home security app on your phone. You can also review video footage from wherever you are.

Protect your vehicles and your Toledo home with Vivint

Deter car break-ins and theft in your Toledo area with the latest smart home equipment from Vivint. Our video cameras with integrated deterrence are fantastic options to keep watch over your cars. You’ll appreciate checking live and recorded footage quickly and simply with our app. Learn more about our surveillance options and our comprehensive home security installations by dialing (419) 614-6278 today.