The warning came after RACQ insurance claims data revealed the Gold Coast, Logan, Brisbane and Townsville regions were hot spots for car theft.

RACQ spokesperson Kirsty Clinton said the Club had received more than 3,600 insurance claims for stolen cars in the past three years.

“Unfortunately, car theft is a growing problem but there are some simple things drivers can do to secure their vehicle and it all starts with your keys,” Ms Clinton said.

“As vehicle security improves, the easiest way to steal a car is to use the keys. So, you need to treat your keys like cash. If you wouldn’t leave a few thousand dollars on a table beside the front door or on the front seat of your car, don’t leave your keys there.

“Also, don’t tag your keys with identifiers like your name and especially not your address.

“Our research shows one in five drivers throw their keys on the table and another 22 percent hang them on a visible hook marked keys. This really isn’t good enough.”

Ms Clinton said drivers should also remember the basics for properly securing their vehicle when out and about.

“Wherever possible, try to park in a secure car park. If that’s not available, choose somewhere well-lit and well-populated to reduce the temptation for opportunistic thieves,” she said.

“Make sure, whenever you leave your vehicle, your windows are up, doors are locked and don’t leave valuables visible in the car.”

RACQ insurance claims data for car thefts from 1 March 2018 – 28 February 2021: