Auto thefts are increasing: Tips to make sure you’re not a victim

Owning a car—especially a luxury vehicle—can be a source of pride and convenience. But with car theft on the rise, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and take steps to protect your investment. 

Whether you drive a high-performance car or a more common model, all vehicles can be at risk. Thieves target cars for resale, parts, or even ship them overseas as part of organized “steal-to-order” operations. Catalytic converters have also become a popular target for criminals.

So, what can you do to protect your vehicle and prevent theft? Here are a few tips:

• Always lock your vehicle, even while it’s on your property.
• If you have a garage, keep your vehicle in the garage, and lock the garage as well.
• If you are in the process of removing groceries or other items from your car, turn off the vehicle motor and take the keys. Monitor the vehicle and lock it between trips.
• Keep your vehicle locked while you are in the car.
• Never leave your keys or other valuables, including your vehicle title, in your car. If you absolutely must leave something of value in your car, ensure it is out of sight, ideally in the trunk.
• Try to avoid higher crime areas. Park in a secure parking garage with valet and real-time video security, or on a well-lit, busy street.
• Leverage your vehicle’s app and anti-theft features, including steering lock, passive alarms, ignition cut-off systems, and next-generation vehicle tracking systems. That way, if you accidentally leave your vehicle unlocked, you will receive alerts via the app.
• Consider installing an anti-theft device on your catalytic converter.
• Refer to your insurance policy or speak with your agent to learn more about possible anti-theft system discounts and liability and comprehensive coverage.