Imagine leaving millions of dollars’ worth of merchandise outside, every day. Most businesses would never think of it. Yet, for car dealers, placing their merchandise outside, on display, is a fact. Protecting their vehicles from theft and vandalism is serious business.

Lighting. Most theft and vandalism takes place at night. Add an abundance of lighting (as much as city ordinances allow) to deter criminals from coming onto the property. Add motion detector lighting to any locations not covered adequately with continuous lighting.

Limit Entry/Exit Points. Don’t make it easy for thieves to drive off with a stolen vehicle. Add landscaping and other barriers around the property. Block entry/exit points when the dealership is closed with gates or other barriers.

Add Security Cameras. Abundant, monitored security cameras are a must—in the parking lot/garage, service area and inside showrooms.

Add Tracking Devises. Consider adding tracking devises to vehicles so if they are stolen, police can quickly find them.

Add Security Personnel. Stories about car dealership vandalism regularly appear on the news. While security cameras can catch vandals in the act, cameras can do little to stop the actual damage. Onsite security guards can spot would-be vandals who are trespassing on the property before damage can be done.