05/08/2026
Vehicle Theft : How to Prevent Your Car from Being Stolen
1. Be Strategic About Where You Park
Always park in well lit areas at night, preferably where a security guard is present. During the day, choose secure indoor parking or controlled paid parking facilities with active security.
Avoid isolated downtown streets.
Extremely busy streets can also be risky as thieves can easily blend in and appear as if they are the rightful owners of the vehicle.
If you must park on a busy street, limit the time to no more than 30 minutes and ensure a security guard is present.
2. Install Anti Theft Devices (Especially for High Risk Models)
Certain vehicles, such as the Toyota Corolla Fielder and Toyota Corolla Axio, are commonly targeted by thieves.
If you own one, it is essential to install:
•A tracking device
•A cut-out (immobilizer) system
•A professionally installed car alarm
Note: Cut out systems are generally more effective in non hybrid vehicles and may not work efficiently with hybrid models.
After installing a tracking device, you will receive a certificate of installation. Forward this certificate to your insurance company as it can significantly reduce your theft excess.
Example of Insurance Theft Excess:
•20% of vehicle value (minimum Ksh 20,000) – Without anti-theft device
•10% of vehicle value (minimum Ksh 20,000) – With anti-theft device
•2.5% of vehicle value (minimum Ksh 20,000) – With tracking device
Installing proper security not only protects your vehicle but also reduces financial risk.
3. Be Careful With KD Plates on New Cars
New vehicles fitted with KD (Kenya Dealer) plates are highly attractive to thieves, especially unregistered units.
Before leaving the showroom, ensure your car is fully registered and allocated a permanent registration number through
It is advisable to purchase vehicles during official working days so that registration can be completed immediately.
If you are driving from Mombasa with a green KD plate and a suspicious vehicle hits you from behind, do not stop immediately. Drive to the nearest police station. Some theft syndicates use staged minor accidents to target vehicles.
Additionally:
•Do not give lifts to strangers.
•Avoid driving KD plate vehicles late at night.
•Ensure your vehicle is registered as soon as possible.
4. Limit Who Has Access to Your Car
Your car is a valuable asset ,treat it as such.
Avoid sharing your vehicle frequently with friends or acquaintances. If your car has a cut out switch installed, others may discover its location. The more people who know your security features, the higher the risk of internal compromise.
Keep your vehicle security details private.
5. Remove the Fuel Pump Fuse
Removing the fuel pump fuse prevents the engine from starting.
Make it a habit to remove it when you park at home and keep this to yourself.
6. Identity Marking, Riveting & Mirror Protection
To make your vehicle less attractive for parts resale:
•Etch your registration number onto the windows.
•Mark removable plastic panels such as wind deflectors.
•Rivet vulnerable components.
•Secure side mirrors with reinforced cables.
These measures make parts harder to remove and harder to sell on the black market.
7. Spare Key Safety
Store your spare key in a secure place known only to you.
Important:
•Never keep the spare key with a battery installed.
•Store the battery separately.
Many imported vehicles arrive with spare keys delivered later and often without batteries fitted as a security precaution.
Buy vehicles with push to start ignition systems. Key ignition systems are generally more vulnerable to theft.
8. Smart Parking Position at Home
Unless you live in a controlled environment such as military barracks, avoid parking your car facing the exit.
Instead, park with the front of your car facing away from the exit. This forces thieves to reverse first, slowing them down and buying you time to react or call for help.
