Drivers have been warned of a certain type of vehicle crime that is growing in popularity on cold winter mornings.
Many motorists find the thought of getting into a freezing cold car and having to wait for the windscreen to demist unappealing, with some starting their engine and leaving the vehicle to warm up unattended.
However, despite saving some time before each journey, the used car retailer Dick Lovett warned that it could lead to 'frost jacking', giving thieves the ability to quickly access and drive off in the vehicle.
They explained: "Leaving your car running while unattended, even for just a slight minute, creates the perfect opportunity for thieves to strike, and they can jump in and drive away in seconds - sometimes without you even knowing.
"If you do need to warm up your car or clear the frost off your windows, stay inside the vehicle while it runs. Thieves can bypass locks or break windows quickly to gain access if you’re away, even with the doors locked."
Whether a driver needs to clear frost or condensation from their windows or simply want to heat up the interior, it is vital that they stay with their vehicle to prevent frost jacking.
Dick Lovett warned that leaving a vehicle unattended whilst the engine is running allows criminals to quickly break in and drive off within a matter of seconds, typically without the owner realising until they return to where it was parked.
What's more, many insurance companies will refuse to pay out for vehicles stolen this way, with clauses typically stating that drivers must never leave their car with the keys left inside.
Nevertheless, Dick Lovett noted that owners of electric vehicles can avoid frost jacking by making sure the battery is preconditioned before they get behind the wheel.
They continued: "If you have an electric vehicle, you may be able to safely warm your car without having to leave the house. Pre-conditioning is a function that many EVs have that allows drivers to warm or cool the interior of their vehicle before driving.
"Pre-conditioning is usually activated via the EV’s connected smartphone app or the car's computer system. This allows you to set a schedule in line with your usual travel times and set the car to an optimum temperature without having to go out to your vehicle, lessening the risk of frost-jacking theft."
The organisation also urged all drivers to make sure their vehicle's doors are locked each time they leave it unattended.
Even if they are only going back into their home for a few minutes, thieves can easily spot and target unattended vehicles that are conveniently located easy to steal.
Similarly, motorists should only leave their car in safe locations, such as busy roads and well-lit areas, where other road users are more likely to spot any thieves trying to break in.
