Auto theft in the U.S. is set to hit its lowest level in decades in 2025, down 23% from 2024. latest information From the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).
Most of this decline comes down to two things: Hyundai and Kia release of software fixes it closed a widely exploited vulnerability that allowed thieves to start certain models with nothing more than a USB cable (ie the infamous Kia Challenge) and coordinated law enforcement efforts that arrested those responsible for a disproportionate share of the thefts.
These low numbers are encouraging, but there is always a chance that your car will be stolen, especially when you are away from home on vacation. The risk of parking on unfamiliar streets, parking your car at the airport or keeping it in a garage for a long time is never reduced to zero. Thieves also rely on the path of least resistance, meaning the harder you make it to steal your car, the better.
So here are four simple and easy ways to protect your car while you enjoy your summer vacation.
4
Never leave your vehicle unattended
What thieves are always looking for
No matter what, always turn off your flame. It sounds obvious, but it’s one of the most common methods of vehicle theft during the warmer months, especially as the days get warmer.
Don’t let your car’s air conditioning run unattended on your road trip this summer, whether it’s packing into a hotel room or running out to get food. Even if the area looks safe, thieves can use it to hide their intentions.
The NICB warns that an unattended vehicle with the engine running is an invitation, so leaving your vehicle, even briefly, is an opening to potential thieves.
Along the same lines, always make sure to roll up your windows, remove all valuables, and lock your car. Some thieves make a habit of prowling parking lots, actively looking for unlocked doors and/or rolled-up windows or vehicles where valuables may be visible.
Thieves work in the dark
Remember that how you park is just as important as where you park. Even if your car is locked, parking in a dark and less traveled area will have its risks.
Thieves prefer dimly lit areas where few people pass because they can work in these types of environments unobtrusively. Look for areas with higher overall visibility. This may include, but is not limited to, the presence of street lights, security cameras, or traffic cameras. Prefer to park in well-lit areas, as this is enough to deter a car thief.
If you are in an unfamiliar place, try to find a place near the entrance, elevator or garage, or a well-lit part of the area. You can also search for garages and lots with 24-hour security or an attendant on duty.
- Kind
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Reverse Peak Lock
- Material
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Alloy Steel
The Jetmore steering wheel lock features a high-strength brass lock cylinder, providing exceptional resistance to tampering and violent unlocking methods. Installs and uninstalls in seconds.
Small investments send a big message
A steering wheel lock is one of the oldest anti-theft devices in the book. Often recommended by the NICB as a deterrent, steering wheel locks work because they are immediately and clearly visible to anyone passing your vehicle.
As mentioned earlier, car thieves want the path of least resistance, and a bulky device on the steering wheel means that a particular car will be more trouble than it’s worth. Most steering wheel locks are inexpensive, easy to use, and require no special installation process. For a trip or a long stay in an unfamiliar city, this is one of the best investments you can make.
On a similar note, you can store a GPS tracker or storage Apple AirTag somewhere in your car. Granted, it won’t prevent your car from being stolen, but it can make all the difference in the world if it happens. If your car gets lost in unfamiliar territory while you’re on vacation, law enforcement will have a better chance of recovering it with a live beacon to help them.
- Dimensions
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3.15 x 4.5 inches
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Carbon Fiber
Lanpard Faraday bags protect your belongings from EMF, RFID and other hacking signals, effectively stopping remote access to your keyless entry fobs.
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Modern cars have modern vulnerabilities
Relay attacks, Faraday bags and your car’s software
Keyless car theft has become increasingly common, and busy tourist areas can be hunting grounds for those using this tactic.
In what’s known as a relay attack, two thieves use signal boosters to boost your key fob’s signal from a hotel lobby, restaurant, or even a parking garage, tricking your car into thinking the key is nearby.
A signal-blocking bag, often called a Faraday bag, completely blocks the fob’s signal when it is not near the vehicle. They are inexpensive, fit easily in a travel bag or purse, and are among the more effective low-cost security measures for keyless entry vehicles.
Likewise, many new vehicles come with app-based safety tools that owners install once and then forget or never install. Before your next trip, take a few minutes to open your car’s companion app and confirm that remote locking, anti-theft alerts and any remote shutdown features are enabled.
For example, cars like Ford’s Start Inhibit feature are available through the FordPass app Mustang Mach-Eallowing owners to remotely shut down the engine. GM vehicles have similar capabilities through the myChevrolet and myGMC apps to prevent unwanted people from leaving the vehicle. If you have a Toyota, get your car inspected Toyota Connected Services SuiteIncluded under the Safety Connect umbrella is stolen vehicle tracking.
The main thing about car theft
Auto theft remains a significant crime affecting hundreds of thousands of Americans each year, although overall numbers are declining. Most of the steps listed above only take a few minutes and cost nothing. Those that do cost something, like a handlebar lock, Faraday bag, or AirTag, are relatively affordable and worth every cent for the convenience they provide.
