One of the best ways to divert attention from your certified BMW being the prime target is to install an anti-theft system.  There are many security options available on the market today that range from simple locking bars to deterrents to expensive retrieval systems.

Examples of inexpensive and effective deterrents available are steering wheel locks and blinking lights that simulate the presence of an expensive alarm system are available for under $50. While these are not the most effective types of anti-theft devices, they are certainly better than having no device at all and will suffice if you are on a budget.  Be aware that this type of anti-theft device may do little to really protect the car, but may be effective in discouraging armatures and joy riders.

Alarm systems may use a security switch on the doors, trunk and hood to be activated if an intrusion occurs.  There are also motion sensors, both types have advantages.  The switch -type system is much less likely to have false alarms going off, but it may fail to go off if there is window entry.  The sensor systems can be activated by heat, or even by people walking by the car.  With false alarms occur in over 90% of the cases when the system is activated, which results in the alarm being somewhat ineffective in that more often than not it is ignored.

Another deterrent type of practice that has been recently used is to etch the cars VIN number into the windshield, this may prevent thieves who plan to change the identifying factors of the car and re-sell the vehicle, but will do nothing to prevent thieves who plan to tear the car apart and sell the parts or joy riders.

A very effective system to prevent car theft is the retrieval systems that ensures  your car will be recovered as soon as possible, usually by the police and in many instances with the thieves still in the vehicle, using a satellite-based control or transponder system There are many types of devices on the market today, they can be expensive because in many cases there is a monthly service fee, maintenance  costs and/or an annual upkeep payment involved.

Insurance companies will usually offer discounts for particular types of anti-theft systems.  You may qualify for a discount from 5% up to 35% depending on what type of system you have.