How anti-theft devices can drive away Hongkong's car thieves

IF THE latest car theft statistics are anything to go by, there is a better than one in 30 chance your car will be stolen at some stage with little hope of recovery.

With almost 2,000 luxury category cars stolen last year alone, the risk is even higher for those owners at the top end of the market.

According to Hongkong Automobile Association (HKAA) estimates, the loss to the insurance industry is close to $1 billion and with a number of insurance firms raising the theft excess clause up to 50 per cent, the real cost is higher.

Despite this alarming rise in car theft, there appears to be little in the way of practical advice from insurance companies on how owners can better secure their cars and minimise the risk of theft.

In addition to many of the sophisticated anti-theft alarm systems offered, either fitted or to be fitted, there are a number of cheaper alternatives which can be as effective in deterring potential thieves.

In their most basic form, steering wheel locks are relatively easy and quick to fit, as well as highly visible to prying eyes. There are different variations which can be locked to the foot pedals, transmission shift stick or handbrake.