If you’re a car owner in the U.S., here’s a reality check: U.S. car theft is hitting alarming levels, with millions of vehicles stolen across the country. Whether in a major metropolitan area or a quieter suburb, the risk is real, and the numbers don’t lie.
But here’s the good news—protecting your car isn’t as complicated as it seems. This post dives into the most recent car theft data, highlights the riskiest areas, and shares actionable steps to secure your vehicle.
- Data Sources: Population Data - U.S. Census Bureau - https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest.html, FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program - https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/ucr
***US Car Theft Interactive Heat Map Instructions***
- Hover over the state in which you are interested in learning more about getting stolen car theft rate data.
- Click on the state to get county-by-county stolen vehicle data
**Data from the table above is aggregated from 2022 data on nicb.org, census.gov, statista.com, and fbi.gov
U.S. Car Theft by the Numbers
The data for 2022 paints a concerning picture of car theft trends nationwide:
- Total Thefts: Over 1 million vehicles stolen.
- Top States: California, Texas, and Florida lead the nation in total thefts.
- Per Capita Risk: States like Colorado and New Mexico report the highest rates of theft per 100,000 residents.
Top 5 States for Car Theft:
| State | Thefts | Theft Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|
| California | 200,000 | 500 |
| Texas | 150,000 | 450 |
| Florida | 100,000 | 300 |
| Colorado | 30,000 | 520 |
| New Mexico | 15,000 | 550 |
The data shows that while states like California and Texas lead in total thefts, smaller states like Colorado and New Mexico face disproportionately high risks.
Why Are Car Thefts Increasing Across the U.S.?
Car thefts are rising for several reasons:
- Technological Vulnerabilities: Keyless entry systems are being exploited by tech-savvy criminals.
- Catalytic Converter Thefts: High-value metals in catalytic converters make them prime targets.
- Organized Crime Rings: Stolen vehicles are dismantled for parts or shipped overseas.
- Economic Factors: Inflation and economic hardship are contributing to rising theft rates.
No matter where you live, these trends emphasize the importance of proactive protection.
High-Risk Areas for Car Theft
Here are the top regions with the highest car theft risks:
1. California (Los Angeles and Bay Area)
- Thefts: 200,000
- Hotspots: Downtown LA, Oakland, and San Jose.
2. Texas (Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth)
- Thefts: 150,000
- Hotspots: Houston, Fort Worth, and El Paso.
3. Florida (Miami and Orlando)
- Thefts: 100,000
- Hotspots: Miami-Dade, Orlando, and Tampa.
Even smaller states like New Mexico and Colorado report significant risks, especially in urban centers like Albuquerque and Denver.
How to Protect Your Vehicle
Let’s shift gears. You know the risks—here’s how to mitigate them.
1. Install a LoJack Device
This isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a proven solution.
- Track Your Car in Real-Time: LoJack devices use GPS technology to locate stolen vehicles quickly.
- Deter Thieves: Vehicles with LoJack systems are far less likely to be targeted.
- Boost Recovery Rates: Over 90% of cars equipped with LoJack are recovered.
At VG Motors, we specialize in installing LoJack systems to help Texans protect their vehicles.
How to get LoJack
- Purchase a LoJack device from the VG Motors online store.
- Schedule a time and place for us to complete the installation by a certified technician (complimentary service included).
- You feel good that your vehicle is connected and protected by the #1 stolen vehicle recovery brand.
Reach out to us at [email protected] or call us at (850) 407-3017 and we can answer any questions you may have.
LoJack Pricing Made Simple.
VG Motors eliminates any confusion and provides straightforward pricing on the LoJack devices we sell.
- LoJack Device + 3 Year Service Term – $895 (installation included)
- LoJack Device + 5 Year Service Term – $1,100 (installation included)
- LoJack Device + 7 Year Service Term – $1,250 (installation included)
Contact us at [email protected] or call us at (850) 407-3017.
How LoJack Works | Explained in 30 Seconds
How Does the LoJack Installation Process Work?
LoJack does not want to openly communicate the exact steps and location where the LoJack device can be installed as it would put LoJack customers at a higher potential risk from criminals. What you need to know is that a certified LoJack technician needs to conduct the installation. The whole process should take less than 1 hour before your device is installed and ready to be connected to your smartphone on the LoJack app. As your LoJack dealer, VG Motors can help install LoJack in your vehicle without you ever needing to leave your driveway.
How Does the $5k Recovery Guarantee Work?
LoJack has been in the stolen vehicle recovery industry for decades. With that time, they have accumulated true expertise and experience in this space. In short, they have perfected their craft. This is why vehicles with LoJack installed have a 98% recovery rate. They are so confident in their abilities that they offer up to a $5k stolen vehicle recovery guarantee if your vehicle is not retrieved within 30 days. This is a tremendous security blanket for consumers as it acts as an insurance policy of sorts. Typically, stolen vehicles are only covered by insurance providers if you have a comprehensive policy. With LoJack installed, you could collect reimbursement from both LoJack and your insurance provider.
2. Choose Park Wisely
Where you park can make all the difference.
- Opt for Well-Lit Areas: Thieves avoid bright, monitored spaces.
- Secure Garages: If you have a garage, use it.
- Avoid Routine: Don’t park in the same spot every day.
3. Layer Your Security
The more obstacles you create, the less likely thieves are to target your car.
- Steering Wheel Locks: Old-school but effective.
- Alarm Systems: Audible deterrents scare off opportunistic criminals.
- Dash Cams: Record activity around your vehicle for evidence.
The Cost of Inaction
Think you’re safe? Here’s what could happen if you don’t act:
- Financial Loss: Even with insurance, you’ll face out-of-pocket costs like deductibles.
- Time Wasted: Filing police reports and dealing with insurance takes valuable time.
- Stress and Inconvenience: Being without a car impacts your daily life.
Prevention is always cheaper—and smarter—than recovery.
Why VG Motors Is Your Trusted Partner
We’re not just here to sell products—we’re here to protect what matters most to you.
- Expertise: Years of experience in vehicle security having installed thousands of LoJack units.
- Customer-Centric: Your safety is our top priority. He are humbled to have 80+ Google reviews with a 5 star avg. rating.
- Proven Results: LoJack systems installed by VG Motors deliver peace of mind.
US Car Theft | How to Protect Your Car
At VG Motors, we believe in empowering Americans to protect themselves and their cars, trucks, SUVs, and equipment. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (850) 407-3017 or email us at [email protected]. We will be happy to walk you through the process and help you take pro-active action to combat the soaring US car theft epidemic. As your dedicated LoJack dealer, VG Motors has got your back. You aren’t alone! Stay safe. Stay connected. And, above all, stay protected.
