Motorists in Gedling borough are being urged to tighten up their security after police reported a rise in vehicle crime across the area.
Officers say many of the incidents could have been avoided with a few simple precautions — and they’re calling on drivers to take extra care, whether they’re parking up for the night or just popping into a shop for a minute.
Police say too many thieves are still finding cars left unlocked.
A spokesman said: “Even vehicles parked on driveways or left unattended while filling up at petrol stations are being targeted. Drivers are being told to double‑check doors, windows and sunroofs.
“Criminal gangs are also on the lookout for cars with fold‑in wing mirrors. If the mirrors are still out, it’s a clear sign the vehicle hasn’t been locked.”
Modern cars are harder to steal — unless thieves get hold of the key or fob.
Officers warn that criminals are using “fishing” techniques, hooking keys through letterboxes using sticks and wire. Drivers are being urged to keep keys out of sight and away from doors and windows.
Anyone selling a car is also being told never to let a potential buyer walk off with the keys, even briefly, as they could be cloned.
Police say keyless entry systems remain a major target.
Thieves only need to get within a few metres of a key to capture its signal and trick the car into unlocking and starting. Officers recommend storing keys — and spares — in a Faraday pouch and checking regularly that the pouch still blocks signals.
Drivers are also being advised to switch off wireless functions on fobs when not in use and to reprogramme keys when buying second‑hand cars.
Officers say motorists should avoid dark, quiet streets and instead choose well‑lit, busy areas — even if it means a slightly longer walk.
Car parks with the Park Mark safety award are also recommended.
Police say thieves can break into a car in under 30 seconds — and they’ll do it for loose change, sunglasses or a phone cable.
Drivers are being urged to:
- Remove valuables or hide them out of sight
- Take wallets, handbags and bank cards with them
- Wipe away sat‑nav suction marks
- Remove mounts, cables and other clues that gadgets may be inside
Items left on roof racks, tailgate racks or in external tool boxes are easy pickings. Officers say drivers should remove them or secure them properly.
Number plates should be fitted with tamper‑resistant screws, and alloy wheels protected with locking wheel nuts, as both are frequently stolen.
Vans remain a prime target
Tools stored in vans overnight continue to attract thieves.
Police recommend marking tools with a name or company details, storing them in a lockable cabinet inside the van, and fitting small internal cameras.
Registration and insurance documents should never be left in a vehicle. “Thieves can use them to pose as the owner and sell the car on,” A spokesman said..
