How to Protect Your Car From Theft

Car theft in the United States reached over a million reported cases in 2022, with financial losses surpassing $8 billion.

Taking a few simple, preventive measures can deter thieves from stealing your car. Anti-theft devices like remote kill switches and steering wheel locks can boost your car’s security. Your insurer may also offer premium discounts for having them.

MoneyGeek's guide offers a detailed roadmap for protecting your car against theft.

Car thefts share commonalities based on offender motives, targeted locations and specific times of theft. Understanding these patterns can help you better anticipate your unique risk factors and take steps to mitigate them.

Car thefts often follow familiar patterns based on the offenders committing them:

Certain locations offer thieves more opportunities due to their accessibility, lack of surveillance or sheer volume of vehicles. Familiarize yourself with the areas most prone to car theft:

The time of day or year can also affect car theft vulnerability. Here’s when you can expect higher odds of theft:

Routine vigilance and simple proactive measures can go a long way in keeping your vehicle safe from theft. The best deterrent is to make it difficult for thieves to access your car.

Beyond locking doors, car safety encompasses where you park and the anti-theft systems you use.

• Park Smart: Choose well-lit areas or secure garages. Thieves often target cars in dark, isolated spots.
• Lock Up: Always lock your car, even if you briefly leave it unattended.
• Key Control: Never leave your keys in the car or ignition.
• Turn Off the Engine: Never leave your car unattended with a running engine. Always turn off the ignition and take the keys with you.
• VIN Visibility: Display the vehicle identification number (VIN) on windows, mirrors and lights to make your car less attractive to professional thieves.

The valuables inside your car often attract thieves. Protect personal items, important documents and electronic equipment from break-ins with these tips:

• Hide Valuables: Visible valuables like GPS devices, laptops or even spare change can tempt thieves. Store them out of sight or take them with you.
• Trunk Storage: If you must leave items in your car, use the trunk. Place items in the trunk before arriving at your destination so potential thieves don't see you.
• Documents: Never leave important personal documents in your car — especially those pertaining to vehicle ownership, which thieves can use to sell stolen cars.
• Stereo Security: Consider using a removable faceplate for your stereo system. Taking it with you can deter potential thieves.

Advanced anti-theft devices can help deter theft and, in some cases, stop a theft already in progress. Manual interventions and sophisticated tracking systems offer multi-layered protection.

Manual disabling devices offer a hands-on approach to car security. These devices physically impede a car’s operation and are robust deterrents against attempted theft.

These devices can incapacitate a car’s essential functions without manual intervention. So once they’re set, you won’t need to take additional steps to activate them.

Remote disabling systems allow owners to control and secure their cars from a distance.

Car alarms serve as an immediate alert system, drawing attention to unauthorized access attempts and deterring potential thieves with their loud sirens.

Vehicle tracking systems provide real-time location data, aiding in swift recovery in case of theft. These systems leverage GPS technology to ensure a vehicle's whereabouts are always within reach.

Always prioritize your safety first, and do not try to pursue or confront the offender. Instead, promptly report the theft to the police and your insurance provider.

Auto insurance can cover the costs of replacing or repairing a stolen car, so make sure to understand your policy’s specifics. Installing anti-theft devices can potentially lead to lower insurance premiums.

MoneyGeek has compiled a list of resources that can provide valuable information and support for car theft protection.

1. National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB): A nonprofit aimed at combating insurance fraud and vehicle theft through data analytics, investigations, training and public awareness.

2. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Provides information on precautionary measures vehicle owners can take to help reduce the chances of vehicle theft​.

3. International Association of Auto Theft Investigators (ATPA): Multi-jurisdictional groups aimed at deterring auto theft through prosecution, prevention and education​.

4. Motor Vehicle Theft Protection Act Program: A national voluntary program created in cooperation with the States, local governments and the U.S. Department of Justice, focusing on motor vehicle theft prevention​.

5. LoJack: A stolen vehicle recovery system that uses a hidden transmitter to help law enforcement locate and recover stolen vehicles.