Got a GPS unit? Here is a tip...
Oct 16, 2007 | 8:03 pm
#31
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Still, I like the idea of keeping insurance and registration in my wallet rather then the glove box.
Oct 16, 2007 | 9:58 pm
#32
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Oct 16, 2007 | 11:53 pm
#35
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A quick Google doesn't show up anything for this sort of double robbery. However, there are quite a few cases of the reverse: someone breaks into a house, takes the car keys and steals the car in the driveway.
Really, this seems to be a stretch. There are three adults in my house, all keeping different schedules. There's actually very few times no one is home at all, so getting my address off my registration or GPS isn't going to help. In fact, I wish they would drive it to my house. First thing I'd do after calling the police would be to tell my roommates. They could see the car pull into the driveway and call the cops.
Taking the car right to where it's most likely to be spotted as stolen isn't that bright, in my opinion.
Really, this seems to be a stretch. There are three adults in my house, all keeping different schedules. There's actually very few times no one is home at all, so getting my address off my registration or GPS isn't going to help. In fact, I wish they would drive it to my house. First thing I'd do after calling the police would be to tell my roommates. They could see the car pull into the driveway and call the cops.
Taking the car right to where it's most likely to be spotted as stolen isn't that bright, in my opinion.
This is one of these stories where it happened to people I personally know.
I park my car at the airport, so I never leave anything with my address on it.
Chances are this is a slim risk, but if it costs nothing to prevent it, why not remove that risk?
It's one of those things that makes me sleep better in the hotel room because I don't have to worry that my car gives thieves clues about where I live.
Those who travel a lot and park at the airport long term parking are especially at risk, since thieves know that the owner is away on a trip.
Oct 16, 2007 | 11:55 pm
#36
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In any case, I use a P.O. box for my DMV registration, so even if they have my license plate they are not going to find my home.
You don't think the GPS thing represents a real threat? You'd be surprised... Most people never plan to be burglarized / victimized, until it's too late. Just because you think "such and such" doesn't mean it won't happen.
Oct 17, 2007 | 1:19 am
#37
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But I think TV and movies have made us all believe that crooks are masterminds, with far reaching plans. I used to tutor reading and math to guys in prison and most of them just did something dumb. Like, there's some food I'm walking past, think I'll grab it and eat it. Not like "OK. First, I'll observe the homeowner and record the comings and goings of the occupants...." Not that such a plan has never been hatched. But anytime I hear about crime that requires much forethought, I'm skeptical.
Oct 17, 2007 | 3:21 am
#38
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A better tip would be: don't leave it in the car. I know some of them are bulky but those who live in big cities know that you don't leave anything visible in your car or you will return to broken glass and missing property. Sadly many are lazy and learn the hard way. 
Oct 17, 2007 | 3:27 am
#39
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Really? You get satellite reception trough the roof? And your garage and family room are in the map database? We are talking about automotive GPS here.
Oct 17, 2007 | 4:44 am
#40
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My BMW shows a similar disparity.
They both run Whereis mapping software.
What is your reference to determine where you are? Something like Google maps? (I'm not saying you're wrong, just keen to know)
(And sorry to let this run a touch OT but IMHO this is interesting)
Oct 17, 2007 | 9:28 am
#42
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Really? You get satellite reception trough the roof? Yup. Between me and the sky are: one sheet rock, some fiberglass, 3/4" plywood, and two inches of foam. And your garage and family room are in the map database? The entire house (top view) is shown in Google Mobile Maps. At max zoom, the "spot" moves to the part of the house where I am, with an accuracy of about three feet. We are talking about automotive GPS here. It would seem that a $1,000 (and up) vehicle unit should be at least as good as a handheld. If it can't tell which house you're in front of, [pardon me, but I think] you got ripped off.
Oct 17, 2007 | 9:41 am
#43
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At max zoom on Google Mobile Maps, my house almost fills the 240x240 screen. The "point" moves around the house with me. If you don't believe me, I'll post some screen shots. Microsoft Pocket Streets is just as good, but doesn't provide a satellite view of the house - although I can see exactly where I am at a street intersection, for example.
Oct 17, 2007 | 12:33 pm
#44
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modern car thieves are using the steal and park, or steal and strip methods. Avoid a lojack arrest and/or just chop the car. Not really steal, find home address and then steal some more. GTA is one thing, B&E is another.