Car Theft Prevention Tips Every Driver Should Know
Today’s car thieves are more tech-savvy than ever. From hacking keyless entry systems to stealing vehicles with nothing more than a simple USB cable, modern theft methods have evolved far beyond hotwiring.
In 2024, over 850,000 vehicles were stolen in the U.S., which means a car was stolen about every 38 seconds. But even if your car isn’t stolen, it could still be targeted.
It’s estimated that for every stolen vehicle, several more are broken into. Shattered windows and missing valuables can lead to costly repairs and replacements. And unfortunately, these incidents happen all too often.
That’s why it’s more important than ever to take smart steps to protect your car from theft and break-ins.
Is your car a target?
You might assume car theft only happens in big cities or to high-end vehicles, but that’s not always the case. Thieves look for cars that are easy to steal, not just expensive ones. Popular, everyday models—especially older ones without modern security features—are often targeted. These vehicles are easier to break into and are valuable for their parts, which can be quickly sold. Cars without anti-theft tech are at higher risk, as well as vehicles parked on the street, in poorly lit areas, or in neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Even if your car seems “low risk,” it could still be a target if it’s left unlocked, running unattended, or has valuables in plain sight.
Unlocked doors and visible valuables are like an open invitation to a thief. A little caution goes a long way, so don’t forget to lock up and keep your belongings out of sight.
Everyday habits to help prevent car theft
Never leave the keys in the car
It might seem obvious, but it happens more often than you’d think. A surprising number of car thefts occur simply because the keys were left inside—whether in the ignition, cup holder, or even tucked away in the glove box. Thieves aren’t looking for a challenge; they’re looking for easy wins. And an unlocked car with the keys inside? That’s their dream scenario. With push-to-start cars, it can be tempting to leave the key fob behind, especially if you’ll just be gone for a few minutes. But no matter how short the stop, always take your keys with you and lock the doors.
Don’t leave your valuables in plain sight
Thieves often scan parked cars for anything they can grab quickly: electronics, wallets, tools, bags, or even loose change. If they see something valuable, they’re more likely to break in. To avoid becoming an easy target, always take your belongings with you and don’t leave your windows rolled down if personal items are out in the open. If you need to leave a valuable in the car, hide it out of sight, like in the glove box, under a seat, or in the trunk.
Park in well-lit, visible areas
Thieves are less likely to target cars that are out in the open where people can see them. Parking under bright lights or close to busy entrances can make it more difficult for someone to break in without being noticed. Visibility is one of the easiest ways to keep your car safe, so avoid parking in dark, hidden areas when possible.
Lock your doors immediately after exiting
It only takes a few seconds for someone to slip into an unlocked car. Car thieves often check for unlocked vehicles first because it’s the easiest way in. Make it a habit to lock your doors as soon as you step out, even for quick errands. It might feel like a small step, but consistently locking your doors can make a big difference in preventing theft. Additionally, never leave your car running unattended, especially if you’re going into a store or around the corner where you can’t keep an eye on it.
What to do if you think your car has been stolen
- Details about the theft
- Police report number
- Vehicle information
- Location of all keys
- Vehicle title and loan/lease information (if applicable)
- Photos or surveillance footage (if possible)
If you have comprehensive coverage on your car insurance, car theft and damage from a break-in is typically covered. However, personal items stolen from your car aren’t usually covered by car insurance. Instead, those losses may be covered under your homeowners or renters insurance.
Your car’s best defense starts with you—and the right insurance coverage
Car theft can happen in a flash, but with the right habits, you can make your vehicle a tough target. Stay alert, pay attention to your surroundings, and always lock up, so the only thing driving off is you.
Having the right car insurance protection is just as important as prevention. Contact your local Alfa® agent today to ensure you have the coverage you need to stay one step ahead of vehicle theft.
All coverages are subject to deductibles and policy limits. This is not an insurance policy. It is intended only to provide a general description of Alfa Insurance® and/or its product lines and services. An actual policy contains the specific details of the deductibles, coverages, conditions and exclusions. Your Alfa® agent can explain the policy and benefits and answer any questions you may have before you buy.