According to recent FBI crime statistics, an alarming 12,000+ vehicles are stolen from auto dealerships annually, making dealerships a significant target for theft and vandalism.

Despite rapid improvements in security technology, dealership theft continues to rise with thieves working smarter than ever before. So what’s the solution? The answer lies in shifting your security from detection to active deterrence.

At SCW, we’re a values-driven company providing end-to-end security solutions tailored to the unique need of your dealership. Whether you’re looking for video surveillance, access control, or a combination of systems, we can protect your dealership’s assets with proven security solutions. With world-class support at your fingertips, we’re here to help safeguard your business with unmatched reliability.

To help you up your security game and safeguard your dealership, we’ve put together this best practice guide full of everything you need to know to save your dealership in theft prevention, operational efficiency, and insurance claims.

The Rising Theft of Vehicles from Dealerships

Vehicle theft from dealerships is on the rise, with criminals not just targeting cars but also the valuable parts they contain.

Tires, rims, and stored inventory are prime targets, with catalytic converters topping the list due to their high resale value. Criminals are also stealing spare parts stored on-site or even components from vehicles parked in dealership lots.

There are significant financial losses that occur as a result of these thefts, as well as supply chain disruptions and an increase in insurance premiums, which make robust security measures more important than ever before.

The Unique Security Challenges of Dealerships

Each automotive dealership faces unique security challenges, including protecting high-value inventory, monitoring parking lots, and managing multiple access points.

Open Assets:

Automotive dealerships are uniquely vulnerable due to their open and accessible layout. Expensive assets, including vehicles and parts, are displayed outdoors, making them an easy target for thieves.

Unlike other industries that can secure inventory behind physical barriers, dealerships often operate in expansive lots with multiple points of entry, making security a significant challenge.

Dealerships are frequently targeted by organized crime groups and vandals. A single incident can result in massive financial losses and disrupt operations.

Operational Challenges:

Dealerships also face unique operational complexities, as they typically include multiple buildings, open parking lots, and high-value assets.

A Dealership is also a complex operational environment and surveillance video isn't the only thing that needs to be seen at a glance. For instance:

• The service department needs to view surveillance alongside scheduling systems.
• The finance and sales teams require seamless access to sales and CRM information.

A comprehensive security solution must integrate these operational needs while ensuring the safety of all assets and personnel.

How is Theft Done?

Modern security systems are more advanced than ever, but so are the methods used by criminals.

Some of the common tactics include:

• Key Swaps: During test drives, criminals may swap original keys for fake ones or fail to return the keys altogether.
• Relay Theft: Thieves use devices to intercept signals from key fobs, allowing them to unlock and start vehicles remotely.
• Break-Ins: Criminals target key storage cabinets during unauthorized access to steal keys and vehicles.
• Parts Theft: Accessories, catalytic converters, and other high-value components are stolen directly from vehicles or storage areas.

What Can I Actually Do About It?

Car dealerships face a range of complex security challenges, from theft and vandalism to ensuring customer and employee safety. In the video below, our panel of security experts dives deep into these challenges, offering insights on how modern technology can provide comprehensive solutions.

Video Surveillance

The first step in a strong security solution for your dealership comes in the form of video surveillance. But what many don’t realize is that not all cameras are created equal, and selecting the right system involves careful consideration of several factors:

1. Image Quality: High-resolution cameras ensure clear identification of people and license plates, even in low-light conditions.

2. Coverage: Strategic camera placement minimizes blind spots and provides comprehensive monitoring of your facility.

3. Usability: Advanced software should enable centralized management, allowing you to view and control surveillance across multiple dealership locations seamlessly.

Image Quality

The main thing you want your security cameras to do is capture identifiable details and features. That’s because, in the event of a theft, you want to be able to provide an image that you can give to police and your insurance company.

If you have an existing surveillance system, start by asking yourself:

• Am I confident in my current system's image quality?
• Does it provide clear images during the day and at night?
• Can I consistently capture critical details like faces, license plates, and distinguishing features?
• Are my cameras reliable, operating 24/7, 365 days a year without interruptions?

If your system falls short in any of these areas, it’s time to consider an upgrade to high-resolution cameras designed for reliability and clarity.

Coverage

Strategic camera placement is essential for comprehensive security. If you have blind spots in your system, you could end up with incidents without any evidence. That means no proof available for the police or insurance, making the process a lot more stressful than it needs to be.

It’s important to assess your current system and check if you have:

• Gaps in your coverage that criminals could exploit.
• Monitoring of all high-value areas, such as key storage rooms, lots, and service areas.

Modern solutions like wireless bridges and multi-sensor cameras can expand your coverage without requiring massive infrastructure changes, ensuring every corner of your dealership is protected.

To help you design a strategic surveillance system, SCW offers a free security camera floorplan service. Our experts will create a customized layout tailored to your dealership’s unique needs, ensuring optimal camera placement and comprehensive coverage.

Learn more about SCW’s free floorplan service here.

Usability

Ease of access and operation is critical for an effective surveillance system. How easy is your current system to use? Think about:

• Can you easily access your cameras remotely through a secure smartphone app?
• Can you manage multiple dealership locations from one interface?
• How simple is it to search and retrieve the footage you need?

A system that is difficult to use or manage limits its effectiveness. Upgrading to advanced, user-friendly software ensures you’re always in control of your security.

Upgrading Your System

Upgrading your dealership’s security system doesn’t have to be a disruptive or overwhelming process. At SCW, we offer flexible upgrade options to fit your budget, construction schedules, and operational needs.

• Staged Upgrades: Security enhancements can be implemented in stages, allowing you to prioritize critical areas first.
• Minimal Disruption: Modern upgrades don’t require a complete rip-and-replace. Existing infrastructure can often be integrated, minimizing downtime and ensuring seamless transitions.
• Tailored Solutions: We design systems that align with your dealership’s unique layout, ensuring maximum effectiveness and minimal impact on daily operations.

Camera Choices

When it comes to dealership security, choosing the right camera system is crucial. Here at SCW, we offer a variety of advanced camera options, each designed to address specific security needs while providing maximum efficiency and value.

Here are some popular options to consider:

Multi-Sensor Cameras – The More, The Merrier

Multi-sensor cameras are one of the most innovative advancements in the industry, offering multiple camera lenses within a single housing. With options currently available in two-lens models and upcoming four-lens models, these cameras deliver unparalleled coverage.

The key advantage? Efficiency. Multi-sensor cameras require just one Ethernet cable, simplifying installation and reducing labor costs. This means faster setup times and fewer infrastructure requirements, making them an excellent choice for dealerships looking to upgrade without the hassle. For those with pre-existing Ethernet cables, these cameras are a straightforward, cost-effective enhancement.

Check out our popular MSC, The Informant 4.0 Dual Vision.

License Plate Recognition Cameras – Easily Search & Download Plate Data

License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras are an invaluable tool for dealerships. These specialized cameras automatically capture and log license plate data when paired with SCW’s Network Video Recorders (NVRs).

Key benefits of LPR’s include:

• Automatic plate logging for seamless tracking.
• The ability to search for specific plates by number or date.
• Easy exporting and saving of plate data for record-keeping or incident investigations.

One of the standout features of SCW’s LPR solutions is the absence of monthly fees. Once you purchase the camera and NVR, you own the system outright, offering long-term savings and peace of mind.

Get a clear license plate every time with The Specialist 2.0, our 2MP Vari-Focal Dedicated License Plate Recognition Camera.

Pan-Tilt-Zoom Cameras – Flexibility and Power

Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras provide unmatched flexibility, allowing you to control the camera’s movement remotely via smartphone, computer, or directly on the NVR. This gives you the power to monitor key areas of your dealership in real-time.

PTZ cameras are ideal for:

• Tracking customer interactions on the lot.
• Monitoring high-traffic areas, such as entrances, service bays, or car washes.
• Using automated presets to jump between key locations, such as the front gate or showroom.

This versatility is perfect for sales managers who want to keep an eye on activity or for security teams monitoring the premises during and after business hours.

SCW has a commercial-grade PTZ camera to meet all your security system needs. And with our expert design team, we’ll find the exact camera for you without any up-selling. Top that off with our free, lifetime, US-based tech support, and you’ll soon discover why SCW is America’s most trusted security camera provider for dealerships.

SCW’s Camera Expertise

At SCW, we recognize that every dealership is unique, with distinct needs, challenges, and budgets. Whether you’re operating a single lot or a multi-location operation, our team has the expertise to design a system that fits your requirements.

Customized Solutions:

• For turnkey installations, we’ll handle everything—from site planning and camera placement to installation and training—allowing you to focus on your business.
• If you prefer a DIY approach, we provide the equipment, guidance, and lifetime access to our US-based support team, so you can install the system yourself with confidence.

We also understand the nuances of different locations, such as which camera types work best in specific areas and what brands or configurations are most effective. With SCW, you’re not just purchasing a camera system—you’re gaining a partner committed to ensuring the safety, security, and success of your dealership.

No matter your needs, SCW is here to provide tailored advice and solutions to protect your assets, streamline your operations, and give you peace of mind.

Cameras Aren’t Always Enough

While security cameras are an essential tool for any dealership, providing crucial evidence for insurance claims, fraud investigations, and incident reporting, they are generally considered as a passive form of security. What does this mean?

While cameras capture and record events, they don’t actively intervene or prevent crimes. This is why many dealerships are now incorporating active deterrence technology into their security systems to take crime prevention to the next level.

Here is a short video with our experts breaking down what active deterrence security cameras are, the idea behind them, and the use cases.

Active Deterrence – Next-Level Local Deterrence

Active deterrence cameras go beyond passive recording by actively working to deter intruders. Equipped with advanced analytics, these cameras can detect human presence after hours and respond immediately.

Here’s how:

• Built-in Lights: When motion or a person is detected, the camera’s light activates, illuminating the area to signal the intruder they’ve been spotted.
• Integrated Speaker System: These cameras feature built-in speakers that can issue a warning, such as “You are trespassing. Leave now, or the authorities will be contacted.”
• Customizable Audio Alerts: Many SCW active deterrence cameras allow you to upload personalized audio files, giving you the flexibility to tailor warnings specific to your dealership.

Imagine a trespasser hearing a recorded message like: “This is private property. Leave immediately, or Asheville PD will be notified.” This type of direct engagement can make a significant difference in preventing theft or vandalism.

Here is a real example of active deterrence working at our office in Asheville, North Carolina:

Active Deterrence Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Enhanced Security: These cameras act as a visual and auditory deterrent, discouraging intruders before they cause harm.
• Cost-Effective: Active deterrence cameras are a low-cost solution with no recurring fees.
• Real-Time Alerts: They can be configured to send push notifications to your phone or alert local or remote security personnel.
• Multiple Options: SCW offers various models with features tailored to your specific needs.

Cons:

• Potential Familiarity: Some seasoned criminals may recognize active deterrence systems and know how to avoid them.
• Aesthetics: Active deterrence cameras may not blend seamlessly with the dealership’s design, as their lights and speakers can make them more noticeable.

SCW’s Active Deterrence Solutions

At SCW, we provide a range of active deterrence cameras designed to meet your dealership’s unique security needs. Whether you need a standalone solution or a system that integrates with your existing cameras and infrastructure, we’ll help you select the right option. Our cameras combine high-quality video recording with advanced deterrence features, offering you peace of mind that your assets are protected 24/7.

Some of our more popular active deterrent cameras include:

• The Warrior 8.0 v3 - 4K (8MP = 4x1080P) Fixed Lens Mini Bullet Camera, Active Deterrence Lights, Speaker and Mic
• The Deputy 8.0 v4 - 4K (8MP) Fixed Wide Angle Lens Turret Dome Camera with Active Deterrence Lights, Speaker and Mic

Remote Guarding – Take It Up a Notch

When it comes to dealership security, recording incidents isn’t enough—you want to actively prevent crime before damage is done. That’s where professional remote guarding comes into play. This advanced solution combines real-time monitoring with the expertise of professionally trained guards to take your security to the next level.

Professional Remote Guarding – Act and Prevent Damage

Imagine someone entering your dealership lot at 3:00 AM. Instead of your cameras simply recording the incident or playing a pre-recorded warning, the footage is immediately sent to a US-based remote guard. These professionals analyze the situation in real time:

• Is it an innocent passerby, or is someone attempting to access a vehicle or building?
• Are they loitering suspiciously or actively engaging in criminal behavior?

If a threat is detected, the guard can take immediate action:

• Dispatching police or local security guards.
• Using talk-down functions via the camera’s speaker to address the individual directly, which can often deter the crime entirely.

This proactive approach ensures your dealership is protected 24/7, providing peace of mind that your assets are secure, even during off-hours.

The Guards – Professionals Got Your Back!

SCW’s remote guarding service connects you with highly trained professionals who monitor your dealership’s security in real-time.

Key Features:

• 24/7/365 Availability: Guards are available whenever you need them, whether for overnight shifts or around-the-clock monitoring.
• Flexible Scheduling: Customize your coverage to suit your dealership’s needs, from overnight guarding to full 24/7 protection.
• US-Based Guards: Every guard is trained and based in the United States, ensuring professional service and a deep understanding of local security challenges.
• UL Listed Monitoring Station: Our monitoring station meets the highest industry standards for reliability and effectiveness.
• Customization Options: Tailor the service to your specific needs, whether you require detailed incident reporting, specialized responses, or a custom escalation plan.

The Response – Guards, Police, & More

Remote guards are equipped with a range of tools to respond effectively to any situation:

• Talk-Down Function: Using the camera’s built-in or external speakers, guards can issue live, personalized warnings, which are far more effective than pre-recorded messages.
• Dispatch Police: Verified alarms result in faster police response times, minimizing potential damage.
• Dispatch Local Guards: If needed, remote guards can coordinate with local security personnel to ensure a swift and effective on-site response.
• Call Tree: Guards can notify specific personnel within your organization based on a predefined call tree, keeping everyone informed.
• Incident Reports: Detailed reports provide a clear record of what occurred, helping with insurance claims or legal follow-ups.

Remote Guarding vs. Local Guarding – Cost Comparison

Remote guarding is not only more effective but also far more cost-efficient compared to traditional local guards.

Consider the costs of a local guard:

• $20–$50+ per hour.
• $15,000–$20,000 per month for full-time overnight coverage.
• A single guard can only monitor one location or area at a time.

With remote guarding:

• A single remote guard can monitor multiple cameras across the entire dealership.
• Local guards, if used, can benefit from the remote guard’s "eyes on the ground," increasing their effectiveness.
• You gain access to a verified alarm system, ensuring quicker response times from law enforcement.

Why Choose SCW for Remote Guarding?

SCW provides tailored remote guarding solutions designed to meet your dealership’s unique needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance overnight security, reduce costs, or improve response times, our remote guarding service ensures that your dealership is protected at all times.

With SCW, you can prevent crime, protect your assets, and keep your business running smoothly—day and night.

Why SCW?

Your End-to-End Security Partner for Auto Dealerships

At SCW, we specialize in addressing the unique security challenges faced by car dealerships.

We offer a modern approach to dealership security, delivering customized solutions tailored to your specific needs. From initial design and installation to ongoing monitoring and support, we provide comprehensive protection for your business.

• Expert Design: Our security systems are purpose-built for dealerships, addressing unique challenges like open assets, complex layouts, and operational demands.
• Turnkey or Self-Install: Whether you prefer a full-service installation or a DIY approach, we provide the tools, guidance, and support to meet your preferences.
• Lifelong Support: With a dedicated, US-based support team, you’ll receive ongoing assistance to ensure your security system performs optimally for years to come.
• Advanced Technology: Our solutions integrate cutting-edge features like high-resolution cameras, centralized management, and remote access to keep you ahead of modern security threats.

With SCW as your partner, you can protect your dealership, enhance operational efficiency, and gain peace of mind knowing your business is secure.

Learn more about SCW’s Security Technology For Auto Dealerships.

SCW Dealership Success Stories

Swickard Auto Network – Nationwide Partnership

One of SCW’s proudest collaborations has been with a nationwide auto dealership network operating across 30+ locations in six states, with even more sites in the pipeline.

The Swickard Auto Group partnered with SCW for a comprehensive security solution, utilizing a mix of turnkey installation and self-install options to meet their diverse needs.

Centralized Control

With SCW’s advanced software, this dealership network gained unparalleled centralized control over their security systems, even with nearly 1,000 cameras deployed across multiple states.

Key Features of Their System:

• Centralized Management: The dealership can monitor and manage all 30+ locations from a single platform.
• Saved Views: Staff can create custom views, such as showing all lobbies across locations with one click, improving efficiency and oversight.
• Footage Exporting: Footage can be exported from multiple locations simultaneously, saving time during investigations.
• Smart Search: Advanced search capabilities make it quick and easy to locate specific footage, improving response times and simplifying incident resolution.

Products Utilized

To meet their extensive security requirements, the dealership network deployed a variety of SCW’s top-of-the-line products:

• Warrior 8.0 v3 (Fixed Lens Bullet Camera):
• 8-megapixel resolution for excellent image quality.
• Ideal for mid-range detail, capable of capturing faces clearly from 50–75 feet.
• Deputy 8.0 v4 (Fixed Lens TUR Camera):
• 8-megapixel resolution with high-quality images for police and insurance use.
• Watchkeeper Dual Vision:
• Combines two cameras in one for wide-area coverage with detailed focus.
• Perfect for parking lots and vehicle storage areas.
• Scope 5.0 (Wide-Angle Camera):
• Offers expansive coverage for large rooms or service bays.
• Reduces the need for multiple cameras, lowering maintenance costs while maintaining great image quality.
• Imperial NVRs (Enterprise-Grade):
• Provides 30 days of onsite recording, ensuring ample storage for incident review and compliance.

The Results

Before partnering with SCW, the dealership network suffered significant losses totaling $1.5 million annually due to theft, damages, and other security issues. As a result of SCW's tailored security system, the following results were achieved:

• Losses reduced to $400,000 in the first year.
• Losses further decreased to ~$30,000 year to date, representing a 74% annual decrease.

The investment in SCW’s solutions paid for itself within the first year, saving the dealership network millions in theft prevention, operational efficiency, and insurance claims.

“Swickard Auto Group has experienced a significant reduction in crime and loss at their dealerships after implementing a comprehensive security camera system, with a 74% decrease in annual losses.”

Read our Parkway Ford success story for even more proven ways to protect your dealership.

Protect Your Dealership’s Assets with Proven Security Solutions

At SCW, we specialize in creating surveillance solutions that safeguard your most valuable assets: your vehicles and your business. Whether you're managing a single-location dealership or a multi-lot operation, we have you covered.

As your end-to-end security partner, we offer a modern approach to dealership security, from design and installation to professional monitoring. Our dedicated, US-based support team provides lifelong assistance to ensure ongoing safety and smooth operations.

Our SCW specialists are on-call to assist you with equipment decisions, installation guidance, and any operational questions.

Call us today on 828-483-4237 to discuss your dealership or get a free quote.