Is Vehicle Theft on the Rise? Spike in Car Thefts in U.S. Cities

What are the Vehicle Theft Statistics?

1. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, there were an estimated 1,337,854 reported vehicle thefts in the U.S. in

According to the FBI, there were more than 720,000 reported vehicle thefts in the United States in 2020, equating to an average of 2.2 thefts per 1,000 people. The NICB estimates that 100,000 more vehicles will have been stolen by the end of 2022 in comparison to pre-pandemic totals, and that nearly half a million vehicles were stolen in the first half of 2022 alone, equating to an estimated $4.5 billion dollars’ worth of vehicle losses from thefts.

2. In 2017, there were an estimated 1,244,748 vehicles stolen, which translates to a vehicle-theft rate of

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), there were 765,484 vehicle thefts in the U.S. in 2017, which translates to a rate of 2.3 thefts per 1,000 people. This rate was slightly lower than the national average of 2.2 thefts per 1,000 people.

3. 61 per 1,000 people in the U.S.

The vehicle theft rate in the United States in 2020 was 246 per 100,000 population, down from 659 per 100,000 population in 1991. The total number of motor vehicle thefts across the U.S. in 2019 was $7.4 billion. In 2022, the nationwide murder rate was 34% higher than in 2019, before the pandemic. Carjackings increased from 3,000 in 2020 to 3,713 in 2022 across seven cities, with most citywide carjackers being young adults.

4. Of the 1,244,748 vehicles stolen in 2017, 60 percent were not recovered.

According to the FBI, there were 707,758 vehicles stolen in 2017, with an estimated value of $6 billion. This equates to an average of $8,491 per theft. Of the vehicles stolen, only about half were recovered and returned to their rightful owners. This means that the recovery rate of stolen vehicles in 2017 was only around 50%, with an estimated $3 billion in losses.

5. According to the Chicago Police Department, there were 18,779 vehicle thefts in 2018, which accounts for a 22 percent increase over the previous year.

The vehicle theft statistics for Chicago are not provided in the above reference. However, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, the nationwide rate for motor vehicle theft in 2020 was 11.8% higher than in 2019. Additionally, in 2021, the number of vehicle thefts reported was 936,315 – a 17% increase from 2019. Finally, major metropolitan areas such as Minneapolis, New York, and Philadelphia saw increases in carjackings ranging from 230% to over 500%.

6. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the vehicle-theft rate in the U.S. increased in 2018 by 12 percent compared to the previous year.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Uniform Crime Reports, there were 751,904 vehicles stolen in 2018, which was a 2.7 percent decrease from the previous year.

7. In 2018, California, Texas and Florida accounted for 28 percent of all vehicle thefts in the U.S.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s 2020 “Hot Spots” Report, California, Texas, and Florida had the highest number of auto thefts in the US in 2021. California had the highest volume of car thefts with 200,524 vehicles stolen, followed by Texas with more than 100,000 thefts and Florida with 42,808 thefts. California also had the highest rate of auto theft per 100,000 people at 1,024 thefts, while Texas reported 386 auto thefts per 100,000 people and Florida reported 243 thefts per 100,000 people. All three states saw an increase in car thefts from 2020, with California reporting the largest increase at 6 percent.

8. Honda Accord and Civic models are the most commonly stolen cars in the U.S.

The Honda Accord and Civic models are two of the most commonly stolen cars in the United States. According to the NICB’s July 2022 “Hot Wheels” report, they make up 15% of all stolen vehicles. This is likely due to their popularity; they are both best-sellers and therefore widely available, making their parts in high demand. Additionally, many components of these cars are interchangeable, making them easier to resell for thieves. The most commonly stolen model year for the Honda Accord is 1997 and for the Civic is 2000.

9. According to the Insurance Information Institute, vehicle theft can cost up to $32,000, depending on the type and value of the vehicle.

The cost to replace a vehicle stolen in the United States varies greatly, depending on factors such as make and model of the vehicle, age, condition, and more. According to the FBI, motor vehicle theft resulted in $7.4 billion in losses in 2020 alone, with an average dollar loss per vehicle theft of $9,166. That said, the cost of replacing a stolen vehicle can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars to more than $50,000. Insurance coverage can help offset some of the cost of replacing a stolen vehicle, however, it is important to remember that the deductible—the amount you must pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in—can be significant. Additionally, insurance companies may not always cover the full cost of a stolen vehicle, leaving you to pay the remaining balance.

10. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, the most common target for vehicle theft is a

The most common target for vehicle theft is motor vehicles of all types, from trucks and SUVs to cars and luxury models. According to the annual “Hot Spots” report issued by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), crooks purloined 932,329 cars, trucks, and SUVs in the U.S. during 2021. This is a six percent increase over 2020 and a 17 percent jump since pre-pandemic 2019. Motor vehicle theft accounted for the majority of property crimes in the United States in 2020 and was the most reported property crime that year. The COVID-19 pandemic, corresponding economic downturn, public safety resource limitations, and a decrease in programs for juvenile outreach are often cited as potential factors that led to the increase in motor vehicle thefts. Car theft rates also skyrocketed due to the proliferation of smart keys, VIN number tampering, and vehicle owner negligence, such as leaving the fob inside the car. New Year’s Day is the holiday with the most vehicle thefts.

Reasons Behind the Rise in Vehicle Thefts

1. Knock-Offs and Stolen Parts

Knock-offs and stolen parts are illegally-copied or stolen components of a vehicle that are sold on the black market. They are becoming increasingly popular amongst vehicle thieves due to the high price of original parts, as well as the ease with which they can be sourced and sold. Knock-offs are typically mass-produced copies of a vehicle’s parts and are made with lesser-quality materials. While this makes them cheaper and easier to access, they are not always as reliable as original parts and can cause long-term damage to a vehicle. Stolen parts, on the other hand, are genuine components that have been taken from a vehicle without the owner’s permission. These parts are often sold for a significantly higher price than knock-offs. They are often re-sold to unsuspecting buyers as genuine components, or used by criminals to replace parts on stolen vehicles in order to circumvent detection. The rising popularity of these parts is aided by the fact that many stolen cars are disassembled in “chop shops”, where they are stripped of parts which can then be re-sold on the black market. The most sought-after components are the precious metals used in catalytic converters, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which can be sold for as much as $250 or more. This lucrative market has increased the incentives for criminals to steal cars, making it important for vehicle owners to take preventative measures.

2. Increased Theft of Luxury Cars

The theft of luxury cars is on the rise due to a number of factors. The pandemic has caused an economic downturn, leading to higher unemployment and lower wages. This has resulted in a decrease in purchasing power, which has caused more people to turn to crime to make ends meet. Additionally, inflation has caused the value of used cars to increase substantially, making them a more attractive target for criminals. Finally, supply chain issues have resulted in a shortage of new cars, making them a desirable target for thieves. All of these factors have contributed to the increase in luxury car thefts.

3. Growing Theft of Armored Cars

The growing theft of armored cars is a growing cause for concern. Armored cars are vehicles that have been specially designed for transporting high-value goods and cash, making them a target for criminals looking to make a quick profit. With advancements in technology, criminals have become more sophisticated in their approach to stealing these vehicles and the items inside them.

The main reason for the rise in armored car theft is the fact that these vehicles often carry large amounts of cash, which makes them an attractive target for criminals. Additionally, the increased use of technology has made it easier for criminals to access and disable the vehicle’s security systems, allowing them to steal the valuable goods inside.

The impact of these thefts can be devastating for both the armored car company and the victims of the theft. Not only do they have to replace the stolen goods, they also have to replace the vehicle itself. This can be a significant financial burden, as well as a major security risk. Additionally, if the stolen goods are not recovered, it can have a negative impact on the company’s reputation and trustworthiness.

It is important for armored car companies to take steps to protect their vehicles and goods. This includes installing the latest technology and surveillance systems, as well as training employees to be aware of potential threats. By taking these measures, companies can minimize the risk of theft and protect their valuable assets.

4. Theft of Vehicles with High-Value Parts

As car thieves become more sophisticated, they are targeting high-value parts in addition to simply stealing vehicles. Examples of such parts include catalytic converters, which are a key element of a vehicle’s exhaust system and contain a variety of metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium; tires and wheels, which are expensive and can be difficult to replace; and car audio systems, which contain expensive components and are popular among thieves. Other examples are airbags, headlights, and other accessories. In some cases, thieves have even gone as far as to steal entire engines and transmissions.

5. Thefts of Stolen Cars to Be Reused

Reusing stolen cars is a tricky business since it involves illegal activities and can lead to serious consequences. However, the process of reusing stolen cars can be broken down into a few steps.

The first step is to find a place to store the stolen car. This may involve finding a secluded area, such as an abandoned warehouse or a hidden garage, which can provide a safe place to store the car.

The second step is to strip down the car and dismantle it into parts. This allows the parts to be sold individually, making it easier to get the most out of the stolen car.

The third step is to sell the parts. This can be done through online marketplaces, local classifieds, or through scrap yards, depending on the type of parts.

Finally, the fourth step is to dispose of the car once all of the parts have been sold. This may involve scrapping the car or selling it as a whole.

While these steps may seem simple, they involve a lot of risk and can lead to serious legal consequences. Therefore, it’s important to use caution when attempting to reuse stolen cars.

6. Thefts of Stolen Cars to Be Resold

Once a car is stolen and resold, the car can be used for a variety of purposes, ranging from parts to be used in other cars, to being sold as a whole to unsuspecting buyers. It is also possible for stolen cars to be shipped overseas to countries like Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, where they can be resold at a higher price. In some cases, adults may even be paying minors as much as $1,000 per vehicle to steal cars, as the punishments are usually less severe for minors. As a result, it is important to be aware of this issue and take measures to protect your car.

7. Thefts of Stolen Cars to Be Recycled

With car thefts on the rise, it is important to consider what will happen to the stolen vehicles once they are recycled. After the vehicle is stolen, it’s likely that the thief will attempt to sell it to an unsuspecting buyer or send it to a chop shop to be dismantled and used for parts. If the car is sent to a chop shop, it will be stripped of its parts, including the catalytic converter, which can be sold for a hefty price. The stolen car’s frame and shell will also be recycled for scrap metal. The vehicle’s interior may also be sold to dealerships or used-car lots. The stolen vehicle may also be sold as a whole to an unsuspecting buyer, only for that buyer to find out the vehicle was stolen once the police contact them.

In order to help prevent car thefts, the National Insurance Crime Bureau recommends that drivers use common sense (e.g., don’t leave your keys in the ignition), install a warning device, immobilizing device, and/or tracking device. Additionally, drivers can review their insurance policy to make sure they are covered in the event their vehicle is stolen.

8. Increase in Carjacking Crimes

The Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ) has reported that carjacking crimes have seen a significant increase in major U.S. cities since 2019. Data showed that motor vehicle theft more than doubled in eight of the 30 cities surveyed and tripled in Memphis and Chicago. Additionally, carjackings have increased in some cities by almost 30%; juvenile carjackings doubled between 2016 and 2021. These trends are concerning and costly to American car owners, as well as potentially leading to robberies, drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities that could be committed from the anonymity of a stolen car.

9. Increased Thefts of Cars with Electrified Parts

The increased thefts of vehicles with electrified parts refers to the growing number of vehicle thefts that involve either the theft of the entire vehicle, or of specific electrified components, such as the catalytic converter or battery. As electric vehicles become more prevalent, criminal activity has shifted to target vehicles with electrified parts, which can be quite valuable due to their high-value materials. As such, reports of increased car thefts have been reported across the US, with some cities blaming Kia and Hyundai for the rising thefts. In June 2022, a group known as the “Kia Boys” demonstrated how to start some Kias and Hyundais using a USB charger, which may have further contributed to the rise in vehicle thefts.

10. Increased Thefts of Vehicles with GPS Systems

The increased thefts of vehicles with GPS systems is a concerning trend due to the prevalence of this technology in vehicles. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), car thefts rose 17% from 2019 to 2021, with certain regions seeing massive spikes over those two years. In Washington D.C., New York and Wisconsin, car thefts rose up to 79%. Similarly, carjackings spiked triple digits in some parts of the country, with 286% increases in New York and 238% rises in Philadelphia.

GPS systems are increasingly becoming standard in many cars, and this can put these vehicles at risk for theft. In the first half of 2020, U.S. and Canadian law enforcement tracked down stolen cars bound for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East totaling nearly $3 million. Furthermore, savvy criminals are targeting the most precious parts of the cars, increasing the ease of theft.

These car thefts are not only costly to car owners but have other implications as well. Robberies, drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities are often committed from the anonymity of stolen cars, and the people committing the crimes are getting younger; juvenile carjackings doubled between 2016 and 2021. The rise in vehicle crimes during the pandemic is concerning and shows the importance of taking extra measures to protect vehicles with GPS systems.

Ways to Protect Your Car from Being Stolen

1. Install an alarm system

Installing an alarm system on your car can help protect it from theft by providing an audible warning to potential thieves, as well as visible theft deterrents. Audible alarms can startle criminals and make them think twice before stealing your vehicle. Additionally, a steering wheel lock or a wireless ignition authenticator can make it impossible for a thief to bypass your ignition system and hot-wire the car. Lastly, an alarm system with a key remote starter can also be used as a tracking device so that police can easily locate your vehicle if it’s stolen. Taking these steps can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of car theft.

2. Use a steering wheel lock

Using a steering wheel lock can help protect your car from being stolen by providing a physical deterrent to thieves. By making it difficult to steer the vehicle, the wheel lock significantly reduces the chance of a thief successfully stealing your car. Additionally, it serves as a visual indication to thieves that your car is well-protected and not worth the effort. Furthermore, it prevents the wheel from being turned when the vehicle is not in use, making it more difficult for them to hotwire it. Finally, wheel locks are easy to use and store, making them a convenient and cost-effective security measure.

3. Use a car security system

Using a car security system is one of the best ways to protect your vehicle from theft. A car security system can help by providing layers of protection against thieves. For example, a steering wheel lock can prevent the wheel from moving when the vehicle is not in use, while tire and rim locks can make it difficult to move the car. Hood locks can also prevent thieves from accessing the engine or other parts of the vehicle. GPS devices can provide further protection by allowing you to track the car’s location if it is stolen. Additionally, alarms can provide a visible deterrent and alert you if someone is attempting to access your vehicle. By using a car security system, you can make it difficult for a potential thief to steal your car and increase the chances of your vehicle being recovered quickly if it is stolen.

4. Install a catalytic converter

Installing a catalytic converter can protect your car from theft by making it hard for thieves to remove the converter. This is because the catalytic converter contains rare metals like rhodium and palladium, which are very valuable and attractive to thieves. By installing a guard on the catalytic converter, it will be difficult for thieves to take it away, deterring them from stealing the car altogether. Additionally, you can also protect your catalytic converter by etching your VIN or license plate number on it, which makes it easier for the police to track it if it is stolen. Finally, in order to further protect your car from catalytic converter theft, you should park your vehicle in a locked garage or in a well-lit area with security cameras and motion detection lights.

5. Install a GPS system

Installing a GPS system can help protect your car from being stolen by allowing you to track your vehicle if it is stolen. This will enable law enforcement to quickly locate the vehicle and increase the chances of recovering your car. GPS systems also work as a visible theft deterrent, as thieves will be less likely to steal a car that can easily be tracked.

6. Install an immobilizer

Installing an immobilizer can help protect your car from being stolen by making it more difficult for thieves to bypass the ignition. Immobilizers are programmed to stop thieves from hot-wiring the car and starting the engine without the key. This technology can be especially helpful for older Kia and Hyundai cars that may not have electronic immobilizers. Additionally, installing a GPS device in your car will also help you track your vehicle in case it is stolen.

7. Install car window tinting

Car window tinting can be a great way to protect your car from being stolen. By tinting your windows, you can make it harder for a thief to see what is inside your vehicle. This will discourage them from taking your car, as they won’t know if there are any valuables inside. Additionally, tinted windows can be a good theft deterrent as they make it harder for a thief to determine if the vehicle is occupied or not. This could make them less likely to attempt a theft in the first place. Finally, tinted windows can also help protect your car from other forms of theft, such as the use of a smartphone camera to see what is inside your vehicle. Overall, car window tinting can be an effective way to protect your car from being stolen.

8. Install an anti-theft device

An anti-theft device is a device used to increase the security of a vehicle and prevent it from being stolen. Examples of anti-theft devices include steering wheel locks, tire and rim locks, hood locks, GPS devices, alarm systems, signal blockers, and immobilizers. Steering wheel locks prevent movement of the wheels when the vehicle is not in use, while tire and rim locks prevent movement altogether when the vehicle is left unattended. Hood locks prevent thieves from accessing the engine or other components, while GPS devices can help track a stolen vehicle and make recovery by law enforcement easier. Alarm systems, signal blockers, and immobilizers make it harder for thieves to bypass the ignition system and hot-wire the vehicle. In addition to anti-theft devices, common sense steps such as locking doors, closing windows, and not leaving valuables in plain sight also go a long way in deterring theft. For auto dealerships, installing bright floodlights, keeping the grounds tidy and in good repair, and implementing inventory control systems can help keep their inventory safe from theft.

9. Always lock your car

It is important to lock your car for a variety of reasons. Not only does locking your car deter theft, it also provides an extra layer of protection from criminals who might use smartphone cameras to peek inside your car and steal valuables. Additionally, locking your car can help prevent thieves from hot-wiring your vehicle, or using a smart key or wireless ignition authenticator to bypass the ignition system and take off with your car. With the use of a tracking device and a telematics service, if your car is stolen, police may be able to quickly locate it, increasing your chances of having it recovered.

Aside from protecting your valuables, parking in a well-lit area and registering your vehicle with the National Motor Vehicle Theft Bureau (NMVTBI) can also help decrease the odds of your car being stolen. Additionally, investing in extra security measures, such as an audible alarm, visible theft deterrents, tire and rim locks, hood locks, and GPS devices, can also help protect your car from theft.

Ultimately, taking the time to make sure your car is locked, parking in a secure area, and investing in added security measures can provide extra peace of mind, as well as help reduce the chances of your car being stolen.

10. Park in a crowded area

It is important to park in a crowded area to protect your car from theft for several reasons. First, a crowded parking lot indicates a heightened level of activity and awareness. Criminals often prefer to target vehicles in isolated areas, as they are more likely to go unnoticed. Second, the presence of other cars, pedestrians, and vehicles passing by can act as a deterrent, as criminals are less likely to act when they know they are being observed. Furthermore, parking in a crowded area can help increase the chances of a witness noticing a suspicious person or activity. Finally, cameras and security systems are more likely to be in place in a crowded parking lot, making it more difficult for criminals to operate undetected. All of these factors can help reduce the likelihood of your vehicle being targeted by car thieves.

FAQs

What is the current rate of vehicle theft in the U.S.?

The current rate of vehicle theft in the U.S. is 2.2 thefts per 1,000 people, or more than one vehicle stolen each minute of each day. In 2021, 932,329 cars, trucks, and SUVs were reported stolen in the U.S., which is a 6 percent increase over 2020 and a 17 percent jump since pre-pandemic 2019. Colorado, California, Illinois, Florida, and Texas accounted for 44 percent of all thefts nationwide. The average dollar loss per 2020 vehicle theft equaled $9,166.

What are the most commonly stolen vehicles in the U.S.?

The most commonly stolen vehicles in the United States are pickup trucks, with the Chevrolet pickup topping the list with 48,206 thefts in 2021. Ford pickups were a close second with 47,999 thefts, followed by the Honda Civic at 31,673 thefts and the Honda Accord at 30,274 thefts. The Toyota Camry was the fifth-most stolen car, with 17,270 thefts in 2021. Other commonly stolen vehicles include the GMC pickup, the Nissan Altima, the Honda CR-V, the Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee, and the Toyota Corolla. Together, these 10 vehicles account for 15% of all stolen vehicles in the US.

Many of these vehicles are popular because they are widely available and their parts are in high demand. Beyond the top 10, other popular targets include Audi A6s, Chevrolet Equinoxes, Expresses, Impalas, Malibus, Suburbans, and Tahoes, Chrysler 300s/300Ms and Town & Countrys, Dodge Caravans, Chargers, Durangos, and pickups, Ford Econolines, Escapes, Explorers, Focuses, Fusions, and Tauruses, GMC Savanas and Yukons, Hyundai Accents, Elantras, Sonatas, and Tucsons, Kia Fortes, Optimas, Rios, Sedonas, Souls, and Sportages, Land Rover Range Rovers, Mitsubishi Mirages, Nissan Frontiers, and Versas, Pontiac Grand Prixes, Ram pickups, Subaru Foresters, Imprezas, Legacies, and Outbacks, Toyota 4Runners, Highlanders, Rav4s, Tacomas, and Yarises, and Volkswagen Jettas.

As of December 2022, Kia and Hyundai models have become popular targets of car thieves, particularly in the Midwest due to the “Kia Boyz” trend on TikTok. Interestingly, the Highway Loss Data Institute reports that on a per capita basis, the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat tops the list of most stolen cars out of all recently manufactured vehicles, while the Tesla Model 3 electric 4-door is the least likely to be stolen with only two thefts out of 191,000 insured vehicles.

What are some of the causes of the recent spike in car thefts?

What are some of the causes of the recent spike in car thefts? [Expanded list] Experts, including the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), cite several factors as contributing to the recent uptick in car theft rates. These include the global pandemic, an economic downtown, a reduction in juvenile outreach programs, law enforcement realignment, and owner complacency. The global pandemic created conditions that meant cars were left unattended for extended periods due to stay-at-home mandates, while the economic downtown likely made cars more attractive targets for theft. Furthermore, the reduction in juvenile outreach programs, law enforcement realignment, and owner complacency all likely contributed to the rise in car crime rates.

What types of theft prevention measures can car owners take to reduce their risk of theft?

Car owners can take a range of theft prevention measures to reduce the risk of theft. These include: registering the vehicle with the National Motor Vehicle Theft Bureau (NMVTBI); locking the vehicle and rolling up the windows; parking in well-lit areas, preferably one watched by guards and/or security cameras; not leaving keys or valuables in plain sight inside the car; installing a security alarm on the ignition and doors; getting an immobilizer to prevent hot wiring; considering a GPS tracking device; and using common sense, such as locking the doors, closing the windows and not leaving the keys in the car. Additionally, car owners can use anti-theft measures such as steering wheel locks, tire and rim locks, hood locks, and GPS devices. Finally, car owners should be aware of ‘puffing’, or leaving their vehicle switched on while running an errand, as this could leave their car vulnerable to theft.

What are the most common methods used by car thieves?

Car theft is a growing problem, and criminals are adapting to new technologies to steal vehicles. To protect your vehicle from theft, you should use a few common methods that can help deter criminals.

Step 1: Use a steering wheel lock. Easy to use and store, these locks will prevent the wheel from being moved when the vehicle is not in use.

Step 2: Invest in a tire and rim lock. You can affix an anti-theft tire or wheel lock on to prevent movement when you are away.

Step 3: Install a hood lock. This will prevent the hood from opening so thieves cannot gain access to your engine or other parts.

Step 4: Install a GPS device. In the event that your car is stolen, a GPS device can help you track your vehicle for easy recovery by law enforcement.

Step 5: Park in secure locations. Criminals often target retail parking lots as they are aware vehicles are likely to be unattended for several hours and are likely to be full of the owner’s previous purchases.

Step 6: Hide valuable property away. Most thefts from vehicles happen because the owner has left valuable items on display or left a window ajar. Hiding valuable property away will reduce the chance of your car being targeted for a smash-and-grab robbery.

Step 7: Use common sense. Lock your doors, close your windows, don’t leave the keys in the car, and park in well-lit areas. Be aware that thieves can use smartphone cameras to see what’s inside tinted windows. Leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle is an invitation to theft.

Step 8: Install a warning device. Use an audible alarm to scare away thieves and visible theft deterrents, like a steering wheel lock.

Step 9: Install an immobilizing device. Use a smart key or another wireless ignition authenticator “which prevents thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle.”

Step 10: Install a tracking device. Invest in a telematics service or other tracking device so that, if thieves steal your car, police can quickly locate the vehicle.

What are the most common places for car thieves to target?

Car theft is a significant problem in the United States, with the rate of reported car theft having increased over the past two years. While car theft can happen anywhere, there are certain areas that may be more high-risk than others. These include side alleys, unlit parking garages, and areas without video surveillance systems. Additionally, retail parking lots are frequently targeted by criminals, as they know these areas are likely to be unattended for long periods of time and vehicles may contain the owner’s purchases. In order to reduce the chances of your car being targeted, it is important to hide valuable items away and not leave windows open or items on display.

The most stolen cars in the United States include the Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-Series pickup trucks, and the Honda Civic and Accord and Toyota Corolla passenger cars. Additionally, the states and cities with the highest rates of car theft are Colorado, California, Illinois, Florida, and Texas for states, and Bakersfield, California for cities. Generally, car theft is more prevalent in metropolitan areas than in non-metropolitan areas.

What are the consequences of a car being stolen?

The consequences of a car being stolen can be far-reaching. First and foremost, it can have a significant financial impact. Vehicle theft is estimated to cost communities in the U.S. over $382 million each year. This includes costs incurred by law enforcement, judicial services, as well as the cost to car owners in terms of damage, insurance rate increases, and lost wages.

On a personal level, car theft can also be incredibly disruptive. Victims of car theft can find themselves without the means to get to work or to run errands. It can also be a traumatic experience, particularly if your vehicle was stolen with a gun inside.

Carjacking trends are also concerning, as criminals are becoming increasingly more bold and willing to commit worse acts. There is also a need for tougher punishments for car thieves, to ensure that they are held accountable for their actions.

The best way to protect yourself from car theft is to be proactive. Make sure you always lock your car and take your keys with you. Remove all valuables from your car, and park in a well-lit area. Use a security device, such as a steering wheel club, and if possible, park in a garage. Additionally, immediately report any vehicle theft to the police and notify your insurer, as the sooner a vehicle is reported stolen, the better the chance of recovery.

Has the pandemic had an effect on vehicle theft?

Yes, the pandemic has had a significant effect on vehicle theft. According to data from the Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ), motor vehicle thefts across 30 major cities have increased by 59% from 2019 to 2022, with some cities doubling or tripling the amount of motor vehicle thefts. This trend has been directly correlated with the start of the pandemic, and has been observed to have risen steadily until the end of last year. This increase in auto thefts has caused billions in losses to car owners, but it has also been linked to other crimes, such as robberies and drive-by shootings, which use stolen cars for anonymity. Additionally, carjackings have seen a sharp increase in some cities, with juvenile carjackings doubling between 2016 and 2021.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advised people to take precautions to prevent their cars from being stolen, such as not leaving valuable items in the car, parking in well-lit areas, and always locking the doors and windows. People can also invest in immobilizers or theft alarms for added protection.

Overall, the pandemic has had a major effect on vehicle theft, resulting in an increase of car thefts and carjackings in many major cities across the US.

How can vehicle insurance companies help reduce theft?

Vehicle insurance companies can help reduce theft by offering discounts to drivers who take proactive measures to protect their vehicles. Here are some steps drivers can take to take advantage of these discounts:

1. Register your vehicle with the National Motor Vehicle Theft Bureau (NMVTBI): Most insurance providers offer discounts to drivers who register their vehicles with the NMVTBI. This will help law enforcement if the vehicle is ever stolen.
2. Install a security alarm on your ignition and doors: Many insurance companies offer discounts for cars equipped with security alarms, which will help deter thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle.
3. Get an immobilizer: An immobilizer prevents hot wiring, where thieves bypass the ignition system with a wire harness to start the engine. Insurance companies may offer discounts to drivers who install an immobilizer in their vehicle.
4. Install a GPS tracking device: Many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who install a GPS tracking device in their car. This device can help law enforcement track the vehicle if it is ever stolen.
5. Use wheel locks and hood locks: Wheel locks and hood locks can prevent thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle. Insurance companies may offer discounts to drivers who use these devices.
6. Park in a well-lit area: Parking in a well-lit area will reduce the chances of theft. Insurance companies may offer discounts to drivers who park in well-lit areas.

By taking these steps, drivers can help reduce the risk of theft and take advantage of discounts from insurance companies.

What type of data is used to measure vehicle theft?

Data from the FBI, the Los Angeles Police Department, and 10 states that publish statewide data are used to measure vehicle theft. This data includes overall totals for the number of vehicles stolen, detailed crime data, and metrics from the 500 police departments with the most motor vehicle thefts in the last five years. Additionally, the NICB (National Insurance Crime Bureau) and LAPD provide common-sense steps that drivers can take to prevent theft, such as locking doors, parking in well-lit areas, and not leaving a key fob in the vehicle.