Prevent Vehicle Theft
Don’t Make Your Vehicle an Easy Target
Between 2024 to 2025 NICB saw a 23.2% decrease in vehicle thefts—nearly 200,000 less than the previous year. Coordinated efforts between the insurance industry, law enforcement, and the public are one of the primary contributors to this observed, year-over-year decline.
But NICB does not hit the brakes because rates have improved. More than 642,000 vehicles were stolen in 2025, and just as our efforts to curb theft evolve, so do organized theft networks. NICB is committed to fighting vehicle theft on all fronts, from working with law enforcement on investigations, to advocating legislation that fights theft, to offering members training opportunities that provide foundational knowledge on curbing vehicle theft.
Protect Yourself from Vehicle Theft
A motor vehicle was stolen every 48 seconds in the United States in 2025. Technological advancements make it easier for criminals to steal vehicles, but utilizing a few, simple protections can make it difficult for even professional thieves to disappear with your vehicle. Implementing this layered approach to security is not only free, but will provide serious peace of mind.
While you're in your vehicle
- Park in well-lit areas, such as well-lit parking lots or near streetlights. Increased visibility deters thieves.
- Roll up your windows to limit points of access before exiting your vehicle.
Once you exit your vehicle
- Lock your doors. Some criminals walk through parking lots and driveways testing handles to choose which vehicle they take, so always lock your car before you leave it.
- Never leave your vehicle running while unattended. An empty vehicle with the engine running is practically an invitation to opportunistic criminals. Always turn off your vehicle when you exit.
- Always take your keys with you. Even if you’re picking up a quick coffee or running back inside your house for something, it only takes moments for thieves to jump in and drive off with your car.
For an additional layer of protection
Consider using anti-theft technology, such as steering wheel locks, audible alarms, or aftermarket GPS tracking like air tags. These items deter thieves from targeting your car, and if they do take it, make it easier to find. Also, many insurance companies offer auto insurance discounts for having anti-theft devices on your vehicle.
If Your Vehicle is Stolen
Immediately reporting a stolen vehicle increases your chance of recovery in the first 24 hours by 34%. Take advantage of that crucial window and keep this information easily on hand to expedite the recovery process.
- The make and model of your vehicle
- The color of your vehicle
- Your license plate number
- Your vehicle identification number (VIN)
Once you've filed a police report, don't forget to notify your insurer about the theft.
What Do I Do if My Car is Stolen?
| How do I file a car theft insurance claim? | Most insurance companies offer options for how to file a claim, including online and over the phone. Access your insurance carrier’s website or mobile app for information or call your agent for guidance. |
|---|---|
| Do I need a police report to file a theft claim? | Yes — filing a theft claim typically requires a police report and prompt contact with your insurance provider. |
| Does car insurance cover catalytic converter theft? | Most comprehensive coverage includes expensive auto parts that thieves target, such as airbags or catalytic converters. Check with your insurance company to confirm your coverage. |
| Does insurance cover car theft if keys were left inside? | Some insurers may deny claims if the theft is deemed to result from habitual negligence, such as leaving keys inside the unlocked vehicle numerous times. According to the 2025 NICB Theft with Keys report, vehicle thefts with keys have decreased by 23% since 2024. These stats refer to all types of vehicles, from four-wheelers to tractors. |
| What cars are stolen the most? | The Hyundai Elantra is currently the most-stolen vehicle in America, with Hyundai and Kia vehicles making up 14% of all 2025 thefts. |
| Does where I live affect my theft insurance rate? | Yes. It is part of a standard underwriting process to determine the risk associated with writing the policy. That will include personal factors like the individual’s driving history, as well as the risk associated with the location of the vehicle. They will assess the theft rate risk, as well as the rate of accidents in the area. The states with the most vehicle thefts are California, Texas, Illinois, and Florida. The metro areas with the highest rates of vehicle theft (per volume) are Los Angeles, California; Houston, Texas; and Chicago, Illinois. |
| How common is car theft right now? | U.S. vehicle thefts reached a decades-long low of 659,880 in 2025, down 23.2% from 2024, though that still amounts to roughly one stolen vehicle every 48 seconds. |
| Does insurance cover a rental car while my stolen car is being investigated? | Rental reimbursement insurance can cover a rental car if your vehicle is stolen, but you need to confirm this coverage is included in your individual policy. Contact your agent before you rent. |
| Can I get a discount for anti-theft devices? | Some insurance carriers offer discounts for vehicles with anti-theft devices including alarms or tracking devices. And because we know the value of the VIN in vehicle recovery, some will even offer discount if the VIN is engraved on the windows. Check with your individual insurance carrier to get specific information about discount programs. |
Download Auto Theft Prevention Resources
You can find more information in NICB’s Vehicle Theft Brochure.
The brochure is in PDF format. If you don't have it already installed, download Adobe Reader.
