Need-to-Know Facts About Car Theft

Car Tips

Did you know that over $6 billion was lost to motor vehicle theft last year? While vehicle theft continues to trend downward, it’s still a serious threat. They’re known as hot wheels: the vehicles thieves love to steal. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, in 2017, the top two cars were both Hondas, while two Toyotas and two Chevys also made the top 10:

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  1. 1998 Honda Civic
  2. 1997 Honda Accord
  3. 2006 full-size Ford Pickup
  4. 2004 Chevrolet full-size Pickup
  5. 2017 Toyota Camry
  6. 2016 Nissan Altima
  7. 2016 Toyota Corolla
  8. 2001 Dodge full-size Pickup
  9. 2017 GMC full-size Pickup
  10. 2008 Chevrolet Impala

It’s interesting to note that the top two stolen vehicles were produced before the introduction of anti-theft technology. In fact, while nearly 7,000 1998 Honda Civics were stolen in 2017, only 388 of the 2017 models were. That’s a real testament to anti-theft innovations.

What to Know About Car Theft

If you own or are thinking of purchasing one of these models, the NICB offers up its Four Layers of Protection:

  1. Common sense. Before you leave your car, take a moment to make sure you’ve locked the doors and taken your keys. It’s a simple thing, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t do it. Don’t make it easy for thieves!
  1. Warning devices. While it may seem like no one responds to car alarms, the fact is that having and using a visible and/or audible device can still be effective in frightening off a would-be thief.
  1. Immobilizing device. It makes sense that, in most cases, a vehicle that can’t be started can’t be stolen. Smart keys, kill switches and fuel cut-offs are extremely effective precautions.
  1. Tracking devices. Devices that emit signals to the police or a monitoring station are powerful accessories for locating stolen vehicles. Some systems use what’s known as telematics, a combination of wireless tech and GPS that lets you remotely monitor your vehicle from your mobile device or laptop.

What You Can Do

If you have an older, pre-anti-theft vehicle, experts recommend that you take these suggested precautions, as well as install steering wheel locks. These proactive measures are well worth the money, as they’ll spare you the cost of replacing your vehicle.

If you want to learn more about how to protect your vehicle from theft, or if you’re in the market for a new vehicle with anti-theft features, contact us today at 702-570-2257 and then come on down to Valley Automall and take a test drive.