Consumer Alert: NHTSA Reminds Drivers to Safeguard Their Vehicles

With National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month wrapping up at the end of July, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reminding drivers to protect themselves year-round from this growing and costly problem, as vehicle theft can happen to anyone at any time.

Each year, vehicle theft costs Americans more than $8 billion. Victims are left handling the aftermath, such as higher insurance premiums and vehicle depreciation if they're lucky enough to get their vehicle back. More than 1 million vehicles were stolen in 2023, a 25% increase in vehicle thefts over the previous few years. That’s the equivalent of one vehicle stolen every 31 seconds.

“Vehicle theft is a common and costly problem, but there’s a lot we can do to protect against it.” NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman said. “That’s why we’re reminding drivers to take these precautions and use good judgment every time you park and exit your vehicle.”      

What can you do to safeguard your vehicle?

• Park in well-lit areas.
• Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
• Hide valuables.
• Don’t leave keys in the vehicle. 
• Don’t leave a running vehicle unattended.
• If your vehicle has an immobilizer, use your key fob to lock your vehicle.
• Don’t leave your keys in your vehicle when you fill up at the gas station.
• Purchase an anti-theft system if the vehicle didn’t come equipped with one.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, Hyundai and Kia models took the top three spots of America’s most stolen vehicles in 2023. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Honda Accord, Honda Civic and Ford F-150 series pickup also made the list.

In response to a TikTok social media challenge that resulted in at least 14 reported crashes and eight fatalities, Hyundai and Kia rolled out free theft-deterrent software in early 2023 for millions of their vehicles that lack an immobilizer. In December, both automakers unveiled hardware modifications — an ignition cylinder protector — for vehicles that are not eligible for the security software upgrades. NHTSA urges owners of these vehicles to contact Hyundai (toll-free at 800-633-5151) or Kia (toll-free at 800-333-4542) for more information.

In addition to preventing thefts, drivers can use vehicle recovery systems to locate stolen vehicles and lessen the economic impact of the theft.

For more information on motor vehicle theft prevention, visit NHTSA.gov/theft.