Auto Dealership Security Checklist

The vehicles on your lot represent more than just inventory. They’re the core of your business and a significant financial investment. The auto industry is already rife with theft and vandalism, so the smart move (financially) is to prioritize securing your dealership. This comprehensive auto dealership security checklist includes the essential security measures all dealers should implement to protect their assets and ensure their business’s longevity.

“But It’ll Never Happen to Me”

Crime, especially theft, is a major problem at U.S. car dealerships. Although the motor vehicle theft rate declined after 1990, it has been increasing since 2019. The reasons are myriad, but the rising value of used cars is a significant factor.

Car theft can be very profitable for criminals. The FBI reports that vehicle theft cost Americans $7.4 billion in 2020, with the average loss per theft being $9,166. In 2022, there were nearly 12,000 cases of motor vehicle theft at auto dealerships. If you think it’ll never happen to your dealership, you’re playing a dangerous numbers game.

While luxury cars are obvious temptations, everyday rides go missing more often and need just as much protection. The most stolen vehicles over the past few years include full-size pickup trucks and common import sedans like the Honda Accord.

It’s not just your for-sale inventory that’s at risk. Customer vehicles in your service area also need protection. In addition, part theft—like catalytic converter theft and tire theft—is alarmingly common.

The auto industry faces significant security challenges. As a dealership owner, it’s imperative to protect your entire lot and every vehicle. Safeguard your lot, inventory, and business with a thorough dealership security checklist.

Essential Items on Your Dealership Security Checklist

Your dealership is a prime target for car thieves. Securing your auto dealership involves restricting access, raising the risks for thieves, and minimizing opportunities for theft. An effective dealership security checklist ensures the protection of both the vehicles and their components.

A good security plan includes many devices and procedures, but let’s dissect some of the most important ones.

Security Cameras: An Unblinking Guardian

Security cameras are the backbone of any effective car dealership security system. These devices provide continuous surveillance, acting as both a deterrent to potential criminals and a valuable tool for gathering evidence.

1. Deterrence: The mere presence of security cameras can significantly deter criminal activities. Visible cameras send a clear message to potential thieves and vandals that their actions are being watched and recorded.
2. Evidence Collection: In the event of a crime, high-definition security cameras capture crucial evidence. The police can use this footage to identify and apprehend perpetrators. It can also be valuable in insurance claims.
3. Real-Time Monitoring and Remote Access: Many modern security camera systems offer real-time monitoring capabilities, allowing you or a third-party service to view what’s happening at your dealership. Remote access ensures you can keep an eye on your dealership from anywhere.
4. Advanced Features: Today’s security cameras include advanced features like night vision, motion detection, and high-resolution imaging. These features enhance the cameras’ effectiveness in different lighting conditions and environments.
5. Integrated Systems: Integrating security cameras with other security systems, such as alarms and access control systems, creates a cohesive security network that enhances overall protection. However, be aware that integrated systems are more susceptible to cyberattacks.

Alarms: The Response Mechanism

While security cameras provide surveillance, alarms can serve as a reactive response mechanism, alerting you and law enforcement to unauthorized access.

1. Intrusion Detection: Advanced alarm systems can detect unauthorized entry through doors, windows, and other access points, triggering immediate alerts. These systems use sensors to monitor for forced entry, glass breakage, and other signs of intrusion.
2. Rapid Response: The loud sound of an alarm can scare off intruders before they have the chance to steal or cause damage. Additionally, many alarm systems are connected directly to security companies or local law enforcement.
3. Silent Alarms: In certain situations, silent alarms can be more effective. These alarms notify authorities without alerting the intruder, increasing the chances of apprehension.
4. Environmental Monitoring: Some alarm systems also monitor for environmental hazards like fire, smoke, and flooding. This added layer of protection helps safeguard your dealership from the negative effects of various natural threats.

Note, though, that alarms are reactive. In other words, something bad has to happen before your alarm system kicks in.

Lighting: Illuminating Your Defenses

Proper lighting is crucial in deterring criminal activity. Well-lit areas make it harder for thieves and vandals to operate unnoticed.

1. Motion-Activated Lights: Installing motion-activated lights can startle and deter intruders while conserving energy. These lights illuminate only when movement is detected, drawing attention to potential threats.
2. Consistent Illumination: Ensure your entire lot and building perimeter are consistently well-lit. Shadows and dark spots provide cover for criminals. Use a combination of floodlights and strategic lighting to eliminate blind spots.
3. Emergency Lighting: In case of power outages, backup lighting systems ensure your dealership remains illuminated and secure. Emergency lighting systems should be regularly tested and maintained.
4. Energy-Efficient Solutions: Consider using energy-efficient LED lights. These lights have a longer lifespan and lower energy consumption, providing cost-effective security.
5. Landscape Lighting: Enhance security with landscape lighting. Well-lit pathways and entry points not only deter criminals but also ensure the safety of your customers and employees.

The Deep Sentinel Solution for Auto Dealership Security

Deep Sentinel is proud to offer automotive dealership live monitoring with AI and instant professional intervention, a comprehensive security solution for car dealers.

It all starts with motion-activated wireless or hard-wired surveillance cameras. Then, predictive analytics and live guards take over to predict and prevent crime on your property.

• When motion activates a camera, the local AI hub evaluates the situation and dismisses false alarms like animals, passing cars, and falling leaves.
• The system alerts the professional guard team about suspicious behavior within seconds so the guards to assess the situation.
• The guards intervene via integrated 2-way audio, often enough to send intruders away.
• If there’s a crime, the guards notify your local police in as little as 30 seconds, staying on the line to relay real-time information.

It’s a smart, savvy solution that’s cost-effective for dealerships of all sizes. For renewed peace of mind, give the Deep Sentinel team a call at 833.983.6006.