The flaming yellow Dodge Neon dubbed the MD HOT CAR attracts thieves like moths to a flame. The Neon was selected
because it has historically been a popular car for thieves in Maryland. This car has all of the anti-theft devices that
experts say will deter theft.
The MD HOT CAR uses COMMON SENSE DETERRENTS consisting of DOOR LOCKS AND IGNITION KEYS;
is equipped with a vehicle RECOVERY SYSTEM LOJACK;
uses VISUAL DETERRENTS consisting of VIN ETCHING, the THE CLUB,
registration in the Maryland WATCH YOUR CAR PROGRAM; and is equipped with
PHYSICAL DETERRENTS consisting of a HOOD LOCK,
and the IMMOBILIZER.
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Door Locks and Ignition Keys
Lock Your Car and Take The Key. Door locks and ignition keys are the original anti-theft devices.
They effectively limit access to and movement of the vehicle by the opportunistic thief. Examination of
recovered stolen vehicles in Maryland reflects that 25-30% are stolen with the key and 60-80% are left unlocked.
VIN Etching
The vehicles identification number (VIN) is etched into each piece of glass with a non-harmful chemical. This deters professional
thieves who steal cars for parts or to change VIN numbers and resale. All of the glass must be replaced or disposed of. Also, aids
in recovery of stolen vehicles.
The Club
The Club is a steering wheel locking device that serves as a visual and physical theft deterrent. Studies conducted by the National
Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) indicate that you are four times less likely to have your car stolen if you use a steering wheel locking device.
Immobilizer
The Immobilizer is a kill switch that prevents the flow of electricity to the starter when the Immobilizer is activated.
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Lojack
LoJack is the only vehicle recovery system that is automatically activated when the vehicle
is reported stolen to the police. Police departments in LoJack states are equipped with tracking units. Ninety percent of
Lojack equipped vehicles are recovered within 48 hours after they are reported stolen and the LoJack unit is activated.
Watch Your Car Program
This is a national vehicle theft prevention program funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, U. S. Department of Justice. Watch Your Car
is a voluntary registration program designed to deter auto thieves. Vehicle owners sign an agreement stating their vehicle is not normally
used between the hours of 1:00 A.M. and 5:00 A.M. Watch Your Car decals are affixed to the front windshield and rear window. If a police
officer observes a Watch Your Car vehicle being driven anywhere in the U.S. during program hours, they may stop the vehicle and verify that
the operator is in legitimate possession of the vehicle.
Hood Lock
A mechanism that works in conjunction with the Immobilizer and prevents the hood from being opened until the Immobilizer is deactivated. Prevents
the thief from disarming alarm devices, hot wiring the vehicle from the engine compartment or jump starting the car.
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