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How to deter car break-ins in San Jose

March 05, 2025
Thief attempting to break into a white car in a residential area

Car theft and break-ins are a continuing issue in the United States. Per the National Insurance Crime Bureau, over one million cars were recorded stolen in 2022 alone. It’s not only the amount that’s troubling, but also the location of the crimes, as they frequently take place right outside our homes. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to deter car break-ins in San Jose . Read what they are and learn how your smart home can assist you.

Take action to deter car break-ins and theft

Auto break-ins and theft are usually crimes of opportunity, so don’t tempt thieves by leaving keys in your car or costly belongings in clear view. Always follow these sensible suggestions:

  • Park in well-lit areas and choose lots with video cameras or security guards whenever possible. Vehicles parked in more active areas are also less prone to be stolen
  • Keep valuable possessions hidden. If you must leave pricy things in your vehicle, put them in the trunk or glove compartment.
  • Engage locks and close windows, even when using your garage. You could overlook lowering your garage door, specifically during warmer times of the year.
  • Never store keys within your car. 
  • Never leave your vehicle running without you inside. It only takes a matter of moments for a criminal to snatch it.
  • Install deterrents like a car alarm system or a steering-wheel lock.

Video cameras help protect cars in San Jose

Most thieves will think twice about intruding on an automobile or home if they notice video cameras. You can make your surveillance components even more noticeable by selecting ones with integrated audible or visible deterrents. If a burglar gets too close, your camera will immediately respond by showing a bright light or sounding an alarm. An essential element of your property’s protection, surveillance devices are an excellent tool for discouraging car break-ins, especially if you typically keep vehicles on your driveway.

When picking video cameras, opt for features like:

  • 1080p high-def resolution for precise imaging
  • Night vision, as numerous break-ins take place at night. Even when utilizing night vision, you’ll have to ensure you have adequate lighting, predominantly near your garage.
  • Wide viewing angles to get a complete picture of the front of your house, including your driveway
  • Smart detection that can distinguish the difference between cars, people, and animals
  • Incorporated motion-detection lighting

The best surveillance will connect effortlessly into your smart home. When a camera spots dubious actions, you’ll get an instant alert via the home security app on your mobile device. You can also check video footage from anywhere you are.

Protect your vehicles and your San Jose home with Vivint

Deter car break-ins in your San Jose area with advanced smart home tools from Vivint. Our video cameras with active deterrence are outstanding options to watch over your autos. You’ll be able to review camera footage quickly and easily with our home security app. Find out more about our video cameras and our unified home security installations by calling (408) 790-0318 today.