Car thieves look for easy opportunities: an unlocked door, a key left inside, a car whose model is known to be easy to steal. Making your car a little harder to take than the one next to it is often enough.
The basics still work
A surprising share of stolen cars are left unlocked or with the keys inside. Always lock the car, close the windows and take the key, even at a gas station or in your own driveway. Do not leave a spare key in the car. Keep valuables, bags and even charging cables out of sight, as they attract break-ins. Park in well-lit, busy places or a locked garage when you can.
Keyless entry and relay attacks
Cars with keyless entry and start can be stolen with a “relay attack”: one device picks up your key’s signal from inside your house and another passes it to the car. To reduce the risk:
- keep keys away from doors and windows at home;
- store them in a signal-blocking (Faraday) pouch or metal box, and test that it works;
- check whether your car lets you turn off the keyless function, or whether a software update improves security.
Physical and electronic protection
A visible steering wheel lock is old-fashioned but effective, because it slows thieves down and pushes them toward other cars. Aftermarket immobilizers and alarms add another layer. A GPS tracker, or the car maker’s connected app, can help police find a stolen car quickly. Some models have had well-publicized security weaknesses; in the US, several Hyundai and Kia models received free software updates and steering locks after a wave of thefts, so check whether your car is concerned.
Catalytic converter theft
Catalytic converters contain valuable metals and can be cut off in minutes, especially on vehicles with high ground clearance and on some hybrids. Parking in a garage or close to a wall, installing a converter shield, and engraving the VIN on the converter (some police departments offer this) all help.
Check before you buy
The National Insurance Crime Bureau publishes lists of the most stolen vehicles in the US, and it offers a free VINCheck to see whether a used car has been reported stolen. Insurance premiums often reflect theft risk too.
If your car is stolen
Make sure it was not towed, then report it to the police right away with the plate number, VIN and description. Contact your insurer, as comprehensive coverage pays for theft; our guide to handling insurance claims covers the process. If you have a tracker or connected app, give the location to the police rather than trying to recover the car yourself.
Motorcycle owners face specific risks; see how to protect a motorbike from theft. For useful security gadgets, see choosing the right car accessories.
