NHTSA – 31 Second Consumer Alert on Vehicle Theft

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One vehicle is stolen every 31 seconds in the United States according to a Consumer Allert issued today by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (Read AutoInformed on Kia and Hyundai Models Have Highest Theft Rates in 2023)*

“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,” NHTSA said.

Vehicle Anti-Theft Tips

• Park in well-lit areas.
• Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
• Hide valuables.
• 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 — including 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 had the dubious distinction of taking 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 and hardware modifications.

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.

* AutoInformed on

• Auto Thefts Rise in the Summer Months
• Second Alabama Cop to Serve Time for I-65 Motorist Thefts
• U.S. Motorcycle Thefts Decrease to One Every 11 Minutes
• Auto Theft UK Style – $473 Million Unrecovered in 2011 Alone