6 useful gadgets to invest in to improve your van’s security

Any sort of car theft can be a devastating blow for owners, but the consequences can be especially severe for van owners. Day to day jobs and even entire careers can be dependent on these vehicles, so if they’re stolen or broken into, you can be dealing with the consequences for weeks, months or even years afterwards. Even if you’ve only bought a cheap new van – or even better, a great deal on a brand new one – it’s worth considering investing in the sorts of security products we’ve listed below.

1. Stoplock

This handy gadget is essentially a lock made of two halves. They each adhere to a separate door on your van, firmly securing them in place so that even a potential thief armed with a pry bar would find it difficult to lever them open. However, for the owner, all it takes is the quick twist of a key. It’s a fantastic device which can give great peace of mind to anyone worried about their existing lock mechanisms, especially since stoplocks can be fitted to rear doors and sliding doors alike.

2. Steering locks

Steering locks are another automotive security staple, and one that you may well have invested in already, especially if you own a Peugeot or Mercedes van. Like many of the other items on this list, one of the great bonuses with steering locks is that they make a great visual deterrent – the sight of one alone might be enough to put the average thief off from attempting a break in. The Disklok is a variant that many van owners swear by, as it’s a classic design that has consistently proven its value ever since car and van crime peaked back in the 1990s. It’s even recommended by some police forces, while insurers have been known to offer lower premiums to drivers who own one – a handy way to save even more money if you’ve already got a new van deal.

3. Catalytic converter lock

The catalytic converter is a standard inclusion as part of the van’s exhaust emissions system. In recent years, it’s also one of the most commonly-targeted parts for vehicle thieves, as it contains precious metals that give it a high financial value, even it’s taken from cheap vans. Happily, this is where a lock can come in very useful. It’s a simple design, but a highly effective prevention measure against anyone trying to remove the catalytic converter from your van.

4. Window security film

Most of us know not to leave valuables on open display in our vehicles, whether or not we’re on a professional job. But sometimes (especially when you’re in a hurry) it can be all too easy to forget, which then makes for a tempting target for passing opportunists, who can use simple blunt objects like bricks or rocks to gain access. This is the situation that window security film is designed for. Various types of film deal with the problem in different ways. For example, certain types simply strengthen the window against attacks, whereas others are designed to encase any broken windows within two separate layers of film.

This doesn’t make it impossible for the thief to get past, but it does make it a lot more difficult and time consuming – and therefore, risky. Most thieves simply won’t take the chance of being caught, which will leave you with a broken window, but an otherwise intact van.

5. Dashcams

We’re aware this recommendation sort of runs contrary to what we’ve just been discussing, in terms of leaving valuables on open view! However, you shouldn’t find it too difficult to find dashcams that are designed to be hidden discreetly away, while still easily filming. When you’re driving, this is a great way to record any dangerous driving which might affect you – in other words, an invaluable way to prove liability if you’re involved in a crash. What’s more, many dashcams use an additional feature when the van is stationary; a motion sensor will activate the camera if it detects any movement within a certain radius, which may allow you to later identify the perpetrators of any criminal damage to your van.

6. Vehicle location tracker

The unfortunate truth is that a very small minority of stolen vehicles are eventually recovered. However, this relatively new technology can be a life-saving last resort if the worst does eventually happen. If your van is stolen, you can contact the tracking provider, who will then activate the device and notify the police – ultimately greatly increasing the chances of your stolen van being ultimately recovered.

These are just a couple of your options when it comes to security. There’s no shortage of ways to customise your van, depending on your specs or requirements. We’re always happy to lend a word or two of advice here at Van Discount! We’re the UK’s home of cheap van deals on a range of makes and models from globally renowned manufacturers, including new Ford vans, Vauxhall and Fiat vans. Why not take a look around our site, or give us a call on 01282 872 530, and see what we can do for you?