For most of us, our car is the second largest purchase we make. It should be secure. So if you are buying a brand new car, insist on a model with built-in security features. Look for:

An immobiliser

Most manufacturers now fit these as standard.

Doors fitted with deadlocks

Sometimes called double locking or the new electronic locks.

A central locking system

Visible VIN - (Vehicle Identification Number)

The VIN is the unique 17 digit number which identifies your car from every other one on the road. Some manufacturers now bond the VIN plate to the dashboard of the car so that it is visible through the windscreen. A thief knows that if he steals a car marked in this way he will have to remove the whole windscreen and damage the dashboard before he can sell it on. This cuts into his profit and can act as a deterrent. Visible VINs also help the police check a vehicle's identity.

Window etching

The vehicle registration number and/or VIN etched on all glass surfaces is a further useful deterrent to theft.

Removable panel and/or security-coded car stereo equipment

Some manufacturers are now fitting stereo equipment, the component parts of which are dispersed throughout the vehicle which will not fit into other makes of vehicle.

Locking wheel nuts

Especially if you have expensive alloy wheels.

Car alarm

Security glazing

Specially strengthened glass fitted to the side windows of your car makes it much more difficult for a thief to break in, particularly if deadlocks have also been fitted. However, a British Standard for car security glazing has only recently been agreed so it may be some time before this feature is standard on most cars.

Tracking devices

You may wish to check whether a vehicle tracking device can be supplied. These enable a car to be tracked by the police or system operator if it is stolen.

For more information on buying (and selling) a vehicle download the document at the bottom of this page.

The same security considerations apply when you are buying a second hand car. Generally speaking, the older the car, the less likely you are to find the features listed previously included as standard, but most can be added on.

Sold Secure and Thatcham (the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre) test car security products and publish lists of devices that work. Many of the devices are common to both lists, and many attract insurance discounts provided that they are fitted by a Vehcile Ssecurity Installation Board (VSIB) approved installer.

A lot of cars are stolen in order to be sold on to innocent purchasers once they have had their original identities disguised - a process known as "ringing". Although the majority of used car sales cause no problems, it is always worth considering the following advice:

• Ask your dealer if he uses the services of either HPI Equifax or CCN Motorfile. These two organisations can confirm whether or not a vehicle has been reported as stolen, written off by an insurance company or is the subject of an outstanding finance agreement. You can also contact HPI Equifax direct, though a charge is made for this service. (Telephone no. 01722-422-422)
• Be cautious with "small ads". Go to the seller's house to make sure he or she lives there. Look out for signs of casual car dealing, for instance if the person selling the car to you has other vehicles lying around in various states of repair, or there are lots of spare parts scattered around the garage or drive.
• Check that the car's chassis and vehicle identification number (VIN), including any which have been etched onto glass surfaces, match those on the documents and that the registration document (V5) hasn't been tampered with.
• Be wary if there are signs that etching has been removed.
• If there is a mark showing that the car is linked to a security register - check it out.
• Do not buy if the seller cannot produce the registration document.
• If you buy at auction, take advantage of indemnity clauses. A small fee is charged, but you are protected should you find you've bought a stolen vehicle.
• Consider having the vehicle professionally inspected by the AA or RAC before you buy. Telephone:0800 333 660.

Sold secure scheme

www.soldsecure.com