Stolen Car Statistics: Vehicle Theft Trends, Causes and Prevention

What are the Car Theft Trends?

1. According to car theft statistics from Statista, there were 268 cases for every 100,000 people in 2021.

According to car theft statistics, the nationwide rate of car theft in the United States in 2021 was 268.2 reported cases per 100,000 population. Furthermore, in 2020 the rate of car thefts was 220.8 reported cases per 100,000 population, while in 2019 it was 246 reported cases per 100,000 population. The District of Columbia had the highest rate of car theft in 2020, with 476.8 reported cases per 100,000 population, while Maine had the lowest rate with 862 reported cases per 100,000 population.

2. NICB: 932,329 vehicles were reported stolen to law enforcement in 2021, a 6% increase over 2020,

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s (NICB) Hot Spots Report, 932,329 vehicles were reported stolen to law enforcement in 2021, a 6% increase over 2020.

3. Top States for Vehicle Thefts: Colorado, Washington D.C., and California

The top states for vehicle thefts are Hawaii, New Mexico, Colorado, Nevada, and Oregon due to their high rate of car theft per 100,000 citizens according to the FBI. In 2020, the 10 metropolitan statistical areas with the highest rates of motor vehicle theft are Bakersfield, California; Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, Colorado; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Fairbanks, Alaska; Pueblo, Colorado; San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley, California; Yuba City, California; Salt Lake City, Utah; Billings, Montana; and Tulsa, Oklahoma. California leads the nation in vehicle thefts with 168,323 reported incidents, followed by Texas with 84,276 thefts. Colorado had the highest overall theft rate in 2021 at 661.21 thefts per 100,000 people, and California had the highest number of vehicle thefts by volume with 200,524 vehicles stolen. The five states with the highest number of vehicle thefts by volume, including Illinois, Florida, Colorado, California, and Texas, account for 412,008, or 44%, of all vehicle thefts nationwide.

What are the Causes of Stolen Cars?

1. Negligence of vehicle owners

Negligence of vehicle owners is a primary cause of stolen cars. If vehicle owners do not take the necessary security measures, such as removing the ignition key, locking the windows and doors, and parking in well-lit areas, their cars become a target for theft. Furthermore, if they do not equip their cars with a car alarm, they may be more likely to become victims of theft. Negligence may also include failing to keep their auto insurance policy up to date and not taking the keys or fob when leaving their vehicle. The consequences of this negligence are costly for the owners and insurers, and the resulting insurance premium hikes make everyone a victim.

2. Poor locking techniques

Poor locking technique is when a driver fails to properly secure their vehicle. This can be as simple as leaving the car unlocked or not using an anti-theft device. Poor locking technique is a major cause of stolen cars, as it allows criminals to easily access the vehicle and take it without the driver’s knowledge or consent. Poor locking can also make it easier for criminals to break in and gain access to the vehicle’s interior, allowing them to steal items from inside the car or even hot-wire it and drive off with it. Drivers should always make sure that their car is properly locked before leaving it and take extra precautionary measures such as using anti-theft devices or alarms.

3. Lack of car alarms

Lack of car alarms can lead to car theft because car alarms act as a deterrent to thieves. An alarm makes a loud noise when someone tries to open the door, which can scare the thief away. Additionally, car alarms are an extra layer of security that can help keep car doors and windows locked, preventing thieves from gaining access to the vehicle. Without an alarm, there is nothing to alert a car owner that their car is being stolen and the car is more vulnerable to theft.

4. Poor security measures for garages

When it comes to garages, there are several security measures that can help to prevent car theft. Firstly, it is important to always keep the garage door closed when leaving the car unattended, as this will make it difficult for a thief to gain access. Additionally, it is important to install a sturdy garage door opener that can be secured with a code and install a motion detector with an alarm system. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the garage door is equipped with secure locks. Furthermore, it is advisable to have an illuminated exterior and motion-sensing lighting for the garage. Finally, it is advisable to install a security camera system with a recording feature to record any suspicious activity.

5. Theft of car parts

The cause of theft of car parts is mainly due to criminals taking advantage of unattended vehicles with keys visible or cars offered for sale during what is represented as a test drive. Additionally, motor vehicle theft is driven by fraud and the illegal acquisition of a vehicle from a seller through fraudulent transfer of funds. Carjackings are also a cause of theft of car parts, wherein an assailant will forcibly take over a vehicle and use it to their own ends. Finally, the “Hanoi burglary” method is another cause; this is done by stealing a vehicle during a house burglary with the purpose of obtaining car keys. All of these activities lead to the theft of car parts, resulting in property losses and stolen vehicles.

6. Vehicle theft by criminals

Motor vehicle theft is a widespread problem, with the FBI estimating that the number of motor vehicle thefts decreased by 4% in 2020. The top cause for this crime is simply opportunity – when a vehicle is left unlocked or with the keys in the ignition, it is an invitation to thieves. Other causes may include an increase in the population or an increase in unemployment, as people may target vehicles to get quick money. Poverty and desperation can also be a factor, as criminals may resort to stealing cars as a last resort to obtain money. Additionally, organized crime rings may be involved in stealing cars and selling them for a profit. Finally, advances in technology have made it easier for criminals to steal cars, and harder for law enforcement to identify and prevent the crime.

7. Criminal activity

Criminal activity is any act that violates the law and generally carries a penalty or punishment. In the context of motor vehicle theft, criminal activity involves the illegal taking or attempted taking of a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent. Common factors that can lead to motor vehicle theft include convenience, financial gain, and organized crime. Convenience is a leading cause as stolen cars can be used as a means of transportation, even if just for a short period of time. Financial gain is another factor as stolen cars can be sold for parts or sold to another party. Organized crime is also a factor as it involves organized groups working together to steal vehicles and sell them for profit.

8. Impulsivity of teens

Impulsivity in teens can be caused by several factors, including genetics, environmental influences, and individual differences. Genetically, some teens may have an inherited predisposition to behave impulsively. Environmental influences, such as exposure to violence or drug use, may also contribute to impulsivity. Additionally, individual differences, such as a lack of impulse control or a lack of knowledge about the consequences of their actions can also cause teens to act impulsively.

The consequences of impulsivity in teens can be severe and long-lasting. Impulsive decisions can lead to risky behaviors, such as driving without a license or engaging in unsafe activities, which can have serious health, legal, and financial ramifications. Impulsivity can also lead to poor academic performance, poor decision-making, and difficulty focusing on tasks. In extreme cases, impulsivity can lead to criminal behavior and substance abuse.

9. Desire for status symbols

The cause of stolen cars driven for status symbols is mainly due to the high demand of parts for popular models and the increasing number of claims, including possessions from vehicles or theft of parts. Luxury cars like BMW, Jaguar, Audi, Lexus, Land Rover, Porsche, Mercedes, and Tesla are more commonly targeted due to their valuable parts and the fact that they are easier to steal. Moreover, owner complacency with key fobs and leaving vehicles running in parking lots or driveways also plays a role in car theft. Ultimately, thieves are drawn to certain vehicle models for the status that comes with owning them and the potential to make money from selling their parts.

10. Availability of vehicles

One of the main factors that contribute to the availability of vehicles being stolen is the ease of stealing them. Certain models of vehicles, such as SUVs, are easier to steal due to their size and design. Owners who become complacent and leave their key fobs in the car or leave their vehicle running in a parking lot or driveway also increase the likelihood of their vehicle being stolen. Thieves may also target vehicles to sell abroad, or to sell to unsuspecting consumers, in order to get somewhere, or to commit another crime. As a result, it is important to be aware of the most stolen cars in America and take extra safety precautions with your vehicle.

How to Prevent Your Car From Being Stolen?

Step 1: Research vehicle theft statistics

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s (NICB) Hot Spots Report, vehicle theft continues to increase in many areas of the U.S. In 2021, nationwide 932,329 vehicles were reported stolen to law enforcement, a 6% increase over 2020, and a 17% increase since 2019. Colorado led the nation with the highest overall theft rate at 661.

Step 2: Protect your vehicle from unauthorized access

Step 1: Practice common car safety habits such as keeping your doors and windows locked when you are in and out of the vehicle.

Step 2: Make sure that you keep a close eye on your keys and keep them on your person or near you at all times, even when you are at home. Consider getting an alarm for your keys that you can track with your phone.

Step 3: Install safety devices such as vehicle immobilizers, steering wheel locks, GPS tracking devices, and more to help protect your car from theft.

Step 4: Try to park in well-lit areas or places with CCTV cameras and security if possible.

Step 5: If you are not going to use your vehicle for a period of time, protect it by getting lug nut locks or wheel clamps.

Step 6: Consider purchasing an external car alarm system or a kill switch to further deter unauthorized access to your vehicle.

Step 3: Install a well-secured ignition system

Installing a well-secured ignition system can prevent your car from being stolen by deterring thieves, making it more difficult for them to break in and steal the vehicle. Immobilisers, hidden kill switches, and car alarms are all examples of well-secured systems that can help deter thieves by cutting off electric current to the ignition coil, fuel pump, or other system. In addition, these systems alert the owner to any attempted break-ins or tampering with the vehicle, which increases the likelihood of catching the thief. The combination of increased difficulty of stealing the vehicle and increased likelihood of detection can be a powerful deterrent for would-be thieves.

Step 4: Maintain a clean record book

Maintaining a clean record book can help prevent your car from being stolen because it allows you to easily access information about the car such as its make, model, and license plate. Additionally, it is important to keep track of any suspicious activity around the car, such as people randomly checking it out or taking pictures of it. Recording this information in a clean record book can help law enforcement locate the car if it is stolen. Additionally, having a record of the car’s whereabouts and maintenance can help detect if it is being used for criminal activity.

Step 5: Don’t leave valuable items in the car

Items that should not be left in a car to prevent it from being stolen include: keys, garage door openers, car alarms, steering wheel locks, tire and rim locks, hood locks, GPS devices, and any valuables such as purses, wallets, laptops, or electronics. Additionally, owners should always lock their windows and doors, park in well-lit areas, and never leave the car running and unattended.

Step 6: Keep the vehicle well-lit

Keeping your vehicle well-lit can help prevent it from being stolen as it is much less likely that a thief will attempt to take a car that is in a well-lit area. Thieves prefer to stay in the shadows, and a well-lit area gives them less cover and makes them more visible to security personnel, neighbours and passers-by. Additionally, installing CCTV cameras and parking in areas with existing security measures can further deter thieves.

Step 7: Don’t make it easy for thieves to steal your car

1. Lock your car doors and windows when you are in and out of the vehicle.
2. Always have your keys on you and keep track of their whereabouts.
3. Install safety devices such as vehicle immobilizers, steering wheel locks, and GPS tracking devices.
4. Park in secure areas with well-lit areas and CCTV cameras.
5. Get lug nut locks or wheel clamps to protect your car when not in use.
6. Invest in car alarms so that if someone tries to open the door, a loud noise will deter the thief.
7. Install physical barriers such as locks for the wheel, steering wheel, or brake pedal.

Step 8: Make it difficult for thieves to drive away with your car

Step 1: Practice protecting your car by always keeping doors and windows locked when you’re in and out of the vehicle.

Step 2: Keep a close eye on your keys and make sure they’re on your person or in a secure place near you at all times. Consider getting alarms for your keys that you can track on your phone.

Step 3: Install safety devices such as vehicle immobilizers, steering wheel locks, and GPS tracking devices to protect your car against theft.

Step 4: Park in secure areas with well-lit areas and places with CCTV cameras.

Step 5: Protect your wheels with lug nut locks or wheel clamps if you’re not using your vehicle for a period of time.

Step 6: Install deterrents like car alarms, microdot identification tags, signs on windows, and VIN etching to make it more difficult for thieves to drive away with your car.

FAQs

What are the most recent stolen car statistics?

The most recent stolen car statistics show that in 2022, there were over 1 million vehicles stolen in the United States, a 7 percent increase from 2021. California and Texas had the most reported stolen vehicles, and Illinois had the largest increase, estimated at 35 percent. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) 2021 Hot Spots Report, Bakersfield, CA has been the city with the highest auto theft rate for the third year in a row. The NICB’s Hot Wheels report also showed that 2020 had the highest number of stolen car cases during the past ten years, at 686,803, while 2014 had the lowest number of such cases.

What are the most common causes of vehicle theft?

The most common causes of vehicle theft can be attributed to owner complacency, such as leaving key fobs in the car, leaving vehicles running in parking lots or driveways, and design flaws in certain vehicles. Other factors that contribute to vehicle theft include the demand for parts from popular models, lack of security systems in older vehicles, and scrap metal and spare parts being sold at higher prices. Additionally, car thieves may be more likely to target older cars due to their vulnerabilities and longer time to learn the weaknesses of such cars. In some regions, certain models of cars are more commonly stolen than others, such as Toyota cars and Proton models in Bangkok, Thailand and Malaysia, respectively. In the US and Australia, Kia and Hyundai vehicles with a USB cable keyless entry technology have been subject to sharp increases in theft. Additionally, the Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger are the most commonly stolen cars in the US.

What are some tips to prevent vehicle theft?

To prevent vehicle theft, it is important to practice good car safety habits such as keeping doors and windows locked. Be mindful of your keys and always keep them on your person or near you. Install safety devices like vehicle immobilizers, steering wheel locks, GPS tracking devices, lug nut locks or wheel clamps for extra protection. Park in secure areas that have CCTV cameras or a parking lot with security. Additionally, you can use deterrents such as car alarm systems, microdot identification tags, signs on windows and VIN etching to make it more difficult for thieves.

What are the most stolen cars?

What are the most stolen cars? According to 2020 statistics from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the most stolen cars in the U.S. were Ford full-size pickups, with 44,014 reported thefts. This was followed by Chevrolet full-size pickups, with 40,968 reported thefts, and Honda Civics, with 34,144 reported thefts. Other top stolen vehicles in 2020 included Honda Accords, Toyota Camrys, Nissan Altimas, GMC full-size pickups, Toyota Corollas, Honda CR-Vs, and Dodge full-size pickups. The makes and models of vehicles most frequently stolen vary by several factors, including region, security systems, and ease of theft. In Bangkok, Thailand, the most commonly stolen vehicles are Toyota cars, Toyota Hilux, and Isuzu D-Max pickups. In Malaysia, Proton models are the most frequently stolen vehicles, with the Proton Wira being the highest, followed by the Proton Waja and the Proton Perdana. In Indonesia, locally-produced MPVs such as Toyota Avanza, Daihatsu Xenia, and Suzuki Ertiga are the most commonly stolen vehicles. In the United Kingdom, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class was the most stolen car in 2018, followed by the BMW X5. In the U.S. and Australia, a design flaw allowing USB cables to substitute for car keys led to sharp increases in the thefts of affected Kia and Hyundai vehicles in 2022. The Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger are listed as the most stolen vehicles in the U.S., especially Hellcat-powered vehicles. Preventing auto theft can be done by taking extra safety precautions, such as being aware of which car models are most often stolen and not leaving key fobs in the car or leaving it running in a parking lot or driveway.

How does homeowners insurance cover car theft?

How does homeowners insurance cover car theft? [Step-by-step instructions]

1. Understand that homeowners insurance will cover the personal belongings in your vehicle that are not typically covered by your car insurance policy.
2. Make sure you have adequate coverage for your personal belongings in your vehicle through your homeowners, renters or condo insurance.
3. If your vehicle is stolen, then you will need to file a car insurance claim as well as a home insurance claim.
4. Contact the police to report the stolen vehicle and file a car insurance claim with your insurer.
5. Gather all the necessary information prior to contacting your insurance provider, such as your Certificate of Title, location of all keys to the vehicle, names and information of those who have access to the vehicle, an accurate description of your vehicle and any personal property stolen from your vehicle.
6. Contact your leasing company to inform them directly of the theft if you are leasing or financing your vehicle.
7. If your vehicle is recovered, remember to inform the police and your insurance provider immediately.
8. Be aware of vehicle theft statistics in order to protect your ride and seek the most affordable car insurance policy with full coverage before a theft occurs.

What are the most common methods used by thieves to steal cars?

1. Theft of an Unattended Vehicle Without a Key: Criminals use methods such as breaking and entry, followed by hotwiring or other tampering methods to start the vehicle, or else towing. Criminals also use high-tech OBD (Onboard Diagnostic Port) key-cloning kits and bypass immobilizer simulators to steal cars.
2. Taking without Owner’s Consent (TWOC): Criminals use this method to steal a car without actually taking it. This is done by unauthorized use of a car without actually taking it. This method is used mainly in the United Kingdom.
3. Opportunistic Theft: Criminals take advantage of unattended vehicles with the keys visible and sometimes the engine idling. They also steal vehicles offered for sale during a “test drive”.
4. Carjacking: Criminals take a vehicle by force or threat of force against its owner or operator. This method is the most serious form of vehicle theft because assault also occurs and it is essentially a robbery.
5. Fraudulent Theft: Criminals use methods involving the illegal acquisition of a vehicle from a seller through fraudulent transfer of funds that the seller will ultimately not receive. They can also use fake identification, checks, and credit cards in car rental companies and car dealerships.
6. Frosting: Criminals take advantage of vehicles with their engines running while the owner de-ices them.
7. Hanoi Burglary: Criminals take vehicles during house burglaries, in which they are looking for the car keys.
8. Joyriding: Criminals drive or ride in a stolen vehicle, most commonly a car, with no particular goal other than the pleasure or thrill of doing so.
9. Keyless System Theft: Criminals use simple signal amplifiers to extend the signal from the owner’s key, allowing them to unlock the car and drive away unnoticed.

What type of alarm systems are most effective against car theft?

When it comes to protecting your car from theft, alarm systems are one of the most effective measures you can take. A variety of alarm systems are available on the market and each has its own pros and cons. For maximum effectiveness, it is important to compare and evaluate the various types of alarm systems to determine which one is best for your needs.

One of the most common types of alarm systems is a car alarm with a siren and flashing lights. This type of alarm is triggered when a thief attempts to break into your vehicle and alerts you with an audible siren and flashing lights. Another type of alarm system is a GPS tracking alarm, which allows you to track your vehicle if it is stolen. This type of alarm is particularly useful if your car is stolen and you want to track it down quickly.

Another popular type of alarm is an immobilizer, which prevents the vehicle from starting unless a key containing the correct chip is present in the ignition. A kill switch alarm is also a great option as it cuts off electric current to the ignition coil and fuel pump, making it difficult for a thief to start the vehicle. Finally, microdot identification tags allow individual parts of a vehicle to be identified, making it difficult to resell stolen parts.

When selecting an alarm system to protect your car, it is important to consider the effectiveness, cost, and convenience of each type of system. Evaluating the pros and cons of each type of alarm system will help you decide which one will provide the best protection for your vehicle.

What states have the highest rate of vehicle theft?

What states have the highest rate of vehicle theft? According to the FBI, the top states for car theft are New Mexico, Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, and Oregon. These states have the highest rate of motor vehicle theft per 100,000 citizens, with New Mexico having 427.2 thefts per 100,000 citizens. Additionally, vehicle thefts are high in the western U.S., with the ten metropolitan statistical areas with the highest rates of motor vehicle theft being Bakersfield, CA; Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO; Albuquerque, NM; Fairbanks, AK; Pueblo, CO; San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley, CA; Yuba City, CA; Salt Lake City, UT; Billings, MT; and Tulsa, OK. California is the state with the most motor vehicle thefts, with 168,323 vehicles stolen in 2020. On the other hand, Vermont has the fewest motor vehicle thefts in the nation, with a rate of only 47.8 per 100,000. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) 2021 Hot Spots Report and NICB’s Hot Wheels Report, Bakersfield, CA, tops the list for the third year in a row, with the highest automobile theft rate in the U.S. The NICB also reported that over 1 million vehicles were stolen in 2022, a 7 percent increase over 2021.

How can I check if my car has been stolen?

If your car has been stolen, it’s important to act quickly and take the right steps to increase your chances of getting it back. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to check if your car has been stolen.

1. Call the police and file an auto theft report. Make sure to provide the police with details of your vehicle such as the color, license plate, make and model year and any other distinct features it may have.
2. Call your insurer. Notifying your auto insurance provider of the theft can ensure you’re protected if your stolen vehicle causes property damage or injuries.
3. Contact your leasing or financing company if your car is being financed or leased. Have them contact your insurance company directly so that your insurer can pay for the claims.
4. Notify the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This will ensure that the thief can’t register your stolen vehicle.
5. Check the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s (NICB) VINCheck. This tool is useful in case the thief tries to register your vehicle using its identification number (VIN).

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of recovering your stolen car and being covered by your auto insurance policy. Make sure to act quickly and contact the necessary parties as soon as possible.

How does auto insurance address theft and damage caused by auto theft?

Auto insurance can provide financial protection for theft and damage caused by auto theft in a few different ways. First, the comprehensive portion of your insurance policy typically covers the theft of your vehicle. This can include the cost of repair for damage done to your vehicle due to the theft. Secondly, if you have homeowners insurance, your personal belongings in your vehicle might be covered under your policy. Thirdly, if your vehicle is recovered, it is important to inform both the police as well as your insurance provider. Finally, there are steps you can take to protect your vehicle from theft, such as removing ignition keys, locking all doors and windows, and parking in well-lit areas. By taking the proper precautions and having the right auto insurance policy, you can be assured that you will be financially protected should the unfortunate event of auto theft occur.