How to protect your car from theft: Security guide for private hire drivers

If you're a private hire driver, your car isn’t just a vehicle - it’s your income.

Whether you drive for Uber, Bolt, FreeNow or work independently, losing your PCO car to theft can stop your earnings overnight. Unfortunately, private hire vehicles are often targeted because:

• They’re on the road for long hours
• They’re newer models (usually under 5 years old)
• They’re parked overnight on residential streets
• Thieves know they’re valuable - they're usually electric or hybrid technology

In this guide, we’ll show you practical, easy-to-follow steps to protect your private hire vehicle from theft - including keyless relay attacks, break-ins, and organised vehicle theft in the UK.

Recent data from the RAC shares the top 10 car theft hotspots in the UK:

1. London
2. Birmingham
3. Manchester
4. Leeds
5. Sheffield
6. Coventry
7. Wolverhampton
8. Leicester
9. Walsall
10. Bristol

As a leading provider of private hire and PCO vehicles across the UK, we understand how vital it is for PHV drivers to protect their car and have clear, practical guidance to keep it safe.

5 practical ways to secure your private hire car from theft

1. Use a steering wheel lock (visible deterrent)

A visible steering wheel lock, even if you have an immobiliser, makes thieves think twice. Criminals usually go for the easiest target - if your car looks harder to steal, they’ll move on.

For added protection, consider a secondary physical lock such as a pedal lock. Layering security makes your vehicle significantly less appealing.

Best for: Overnight parking, street parking, and leaving your vehicle between shifts.

2. Protect against keyless relay theft

Even if your vehicle isn’t fully keyless, modern key fobs can still be vulnerable to signal theft.

To reduce the risk:

• Store keys in a signal-blocking Faraday pouch
• Keep keys away from doors and windows at home
• Never leave keys near the front door
• Test your pouch regularly

This prevents thieves from capturing your key signal from outside your home.

At home, you can add another layer of protection by parking tightly against a wall or another vehicle on the driver’s door side to restrict access.

3. Always double-check your car is secure

Signal jamming is becoming more common.

• After locking your car:
• Physically check the door handle
• Confirm mirrors fold in (if applicable)
• Ensure windows are fully closed

Never assume it locked properly without double-checking it yourself.

Also remember:

• Never leave the vehicle unattended with the engine running - even for a few seconds
• Always lock the vehicle during deliveries or food collection, even if stepping away briefly
• Do not leave the vehicle unlocked while cleaning or refuelling

Opportunistic theft often happens in moments of distraction.

4. Park smart between shifts

Where and how you park makes a big difference.

• Choose well-lit, high footfall areas
• Use secure car parks where possible
• Avoid leaving your vehicle in the same visible spot for prolonged periods

Predictability makes vehicles easier to target.

Never leave high-value items in sight when your car is unattended, including:

• Phones
• Ride-hailing devices
• Charging cables
• Wallets or bags

Even small items - or signs of valuables such as mounts or loose cables - can trigger a break-in. Remove anything that suggests equipment may be inside.

5. Be mindful at public charging points

Many private hire drivers leave their electric vehicle (EV) charging between shifts - sometimes overnight. If you do, choose a safe, well-lit location and check reviews of the charging site beforehand.

When charging your EV:

• Lock your vehicle while it’s plugged in
• Avoid leaving it unattended in isolated areas
• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night

Public charging points are convenient, but taking a few extra precautions can help protect your car.

Quick end-of-shift security routine for private hire drivers

Vehicle theft isn’t just inconvenient - for private hire drivers, it directly impacts your income. By combining visible deterrents, smart parking habits, and simple daily checks, you dramatically reduce your risk and make your vehicle a far less attractive target.

Every time you finish driving:

• Remove valuables
• Lock and manually check doors
• Store keys in Faraday pouch
• Park in a secure, well-lit area
• Use steering lock overnight

This routine takes less than 2 minutes but could prevent your car from being stolen.

Drive with true peace of mind with Otto Car

We offer more than just a car; we provide the support, guidance, and community you need to succeed.

Explore our wide range of electric cars on our Rent to Buy or PCO Car Hire plans, designed to fit your needs as a private hire driver.

Already know the car you want? Visit one of our London hubs or call us on 0203 995 1316 - our friendly Otto Team is always here to help!