If you own a vehicle in Florida, here’s the cold hard truth: Florida car theft is on the rise, and 2022 was a wake-up call for vehicle owners statewide. From urban hubs like Miami to smaller counties, the data reveals a troubling trend.
The good news? Protecting your car is easier than you think—if you act now. This post dives deep into the data, identifies high-risk areas, and provides actionable strategies to secure your vehicle.
Florida Car Theft by the Numbers
In 2022, Florida saw a significant increase in car thefts across counties, impacting both urban and rural areas. Here’s the breakdown:
- Total Thefts: Over 75,000 vehicles stolen statewide.
- High-Theft Counties: Miami-Dade, Broward, and Orange counties led in absolute numbers.
- Per Capita Risk: Smaller counties like Baker and Bradford experienced higher theft rates relative to population.
Key Counties Breakdown:
| County | Thefts | Theft Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Miami-Dade | 20,000 | 450 |
| Broward | 15,000 | 400 |
| Orange | 12,000 | 390 |
| Hillsborough | 8,000 | 370 |
| Duval | 7,000 | 350 |
Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet town, the message is clear: No one is immune to this growing threat.
What’s Driving the Surge in Florida Car Thefts?
Car theft trends in Florida reveal a mix of opportunistic and organized crimes. Here’s what’s fueling the rise:
- High Tourist Traffic: Florida’s status as a tourist hotspot makes it a magnet for car thieves targeting rental cars and visitor vehicles.
- Tech Vulnerabilities: Keyless entry and other advanced features are being exploited by criminals.
- Resale and Export Rings: Many stolen vehicles are dismantled for parts or shipped overseas.
- Catalytic Converter Thefts: The rise in catalytic converter theft often escalates to full vehicle theft.
From Miami to Tallahassee, no make or model is entirely safe.
High-Risk Areas for Car Theft
Based on the data, these are the counties and cities with the highest risk of car theft in Florida:
1. Miami-Dade County
- Thefts: 20,000
- Hotspots: Downtown Miami, Wynwood, and South Beach.
2. Broward County (Fort Lauderdale)
- Thefts: 15,000
- Hotspots: Las Olas, Sawgrass Mills, and Hollywood.
3. Orange County (Orlando)
- Thefts: 12,000
- Hotspots: International Drive, Downtown Orlando, and theme park areas.
Even smaller counties like Baker and Bradford report high theft rates relative to their population, highlighting that rural areas are not immune to this problem.
How to Protect Your Vehicle in Florida
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.
Florida 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 Florida 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.
