If you own a car in California, pay close attention. California car theft has reached alarming levels, with thousands of vehicles stolen in 2022 alone. Whether you’re in urban centers like Los Angeles or quieter counties, your vehicle could be at risk. But here’s the good news—you can take steps to protect it.
This article dives into the latest data, highlights high-risk areas, and provides actionable strategies to keep your car safe.
California Car Theft: The Numbers Don’t Lie
The data paints a stark picture. In 2022, car thefts spiked across California. Here’s a breakdown:
- Total Thefts: Over 150,000 vehicles stolen statewide.
- Highest Rates: Urban counties like Los Angeles, Alameda, and San Francisco led the charge.
- Per Capita Risk: Smaller counties like Alpine and Amador also reported surprisingly high theft rates relative to their population.
Here’s what this looks like for key counties:
| County | Thefts | Theft Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 50,000 | 1,250 |
| Alameda | 16,500 | 988 |
| San Francisco | 10,000 | 1,200 |
| San Diego | 8,000 | 500 |
| Fresno | 4,000 | 650 |
The takeaway? Car theft isn’t just a big-city problem. It’s everywhere.
Why Are Car Thefts Rising in California?
Criminals are evolving, and so are their methods. Here’s what’s driving the surge:
- Keyless Entry Exploits: Advanced tech makes it easier for thieves to hack modern vehicles.
- Catalytic Converter Thefts: Rising metal prices fuel demand for catalytic converters, often leading to full vehicle thefts.
- Resale Markets: Stolen vehicles are quickly dismantled and sold for parts.
California’s dense population and high car ownership make it a prime target for auto theft rings.
High-Risk Areas for Car Theft
Based on the data, these are the counties where car theft is most rampant:
1. Los Angeles County
- Total Thefts: 50,000
- Key Areas: Downtown LA, Hollywood, South LA.
If you live here, consider this ground zero for car theft.
2. San Francisco County
- Total Thefts: 10,000
- Key Areas: Mission District, SoMa, Fisherman’s Wharf.
Tourist-heavy areas are prime spots for theft.
3. Fresno County
- Total Thefts: 4,000
- Key Areas: Central Fresno, Clovis.
Smaller counties like Alpine and Amador may have fewer thefts, but their high rates per capita indicate concentrated risks.
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 game-changer.
Insurance Discounts: Many providers offer lower premiums if you install LoJack.
Track Your Car: Real-time GPS tracking to pinpoint your vehicle’s location.
Higher Recovery Rates: Vehicles with LoJack have a 98% recovery rate.
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. Park Smart
Where you park can make all the difference.
- Use 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 car theft won’t happen to you? Here’s what it could cost:
- Financial Loss: Even with insurance, deductibles and depreciation mean you lose money.
- Emotional Toll: Losing a vehicle disrupts your life and causes stress.
- Time Wasted: Filing reports and replacing your car takes time you’ll never get back.
Investing in prevention now saves you a world of trouble later.
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.
California 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 California 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.
