Car theft is on the rise!
In 2021, losses stemming from vehicle theft rose over 20% from the previous year. While vehicle thefts have increased, there are fewer vehicles that are being recovered after they’ve been stolen. In 2021, the recovery rate of stolen vehicles dropped almost 20% from the previous year! Unfortunately, the growing trend of vehicle theft crime rates appears to be continuing into 2022 with an increase of 71% of vehicles stolen in January 2022 compared to January 2021.
Why is vehicle theft increasing and car recovery decreasing?
We believe an increase in vehicle thefts and decrease in vehicle recovery is due to a change in the motive of today’s car thieves. Vehicles are now being stolen with the intention of being sold overseas. Once stolen and placed into a shipping container, it’s very difficult for vehicles to be tracked and recovered. This makes preventing car theft and increasing vehicle security all that more important.
Are there certain vehicles or areas that are more susceptible to vehicle theft?
Although vehicle thefts are increasing across the country, we know certain vehicle makes and models are particularly vulnerable as targets for car theft. In 2021, we saw the largest increase of stolen vehicles (+100%) in Honda CR-Vs, Land Rover Range Rovers, and Lexus RX350s when compared to 2019! So far, in 2022, Honda CR-V continues to be the #1 targeted vehicle for motor theft. We are also seeing a growing trend of Ford F150s and Jeep Grand Cherokees being targeted. In addition, the GTA is the hardest hit area for vehicle theft.
Top 6 easy ways that may help prevent your car from getting stolen
With car theft on the rise, it's important to take steps to prevent theft and protect your vehicle. Here are 6 car theft prevention steps you can take to protect your vehicle:
- Use a steering wheel lock. Not only does a steering wheel lock make it difficult for a thief to steal your vehicle, but it also acts as a strong theft deterrent! At first glance, the potential thief can see your vehicle is equipped with a steering wheel lock and decide not to even bother with your vehicle!
- Use a data port lock. Data port locks prevent thieves from reprogramming your vehicle and increase your car security. The bonus of a data port lock is once you install it, you can forget about it!
- Store your vehicle in your garage (if possible) and ensure the garage is locked.
- Store keys away from your front door. Keys close to the front door can be within range for thieves to use a computer to copy your key and steal your vehicle.
- Store keys in an aluminum or metal box. Containers, such as these, block the radio signals that thieves use to steal your vehicle.
- Consider installing a vehicle tracking device. In the event your vehicle is stolen, the device can help locate the car.
What to do if your vehicle is stolen?
- As soon as you notice your vehicle is stolen, contact your vehicle manufacturer/dealership to determine if they can locate your vehicle. Radio subscriptions, such as satellite radio, may also have tracking capabilities.
- Report the theft incident to the police.
- Report the loss of your car to your insurance company.
- Preserve any personal video surveillance you may have of the theft.
- Did you have any ID or personal information in your vehicle? If so, you may want to take measures to protect yourself from potential identity theft (for example, notifying your bank of any stolen bank information and arranging for credit monitoring if personal information was compromised).
Though car theft is on the rise, following the tips above can help avoid having your vehicle stolen.