From coast to coast, headlines scream of a troubling surge: vehicle theft rates are soaring across North America. While car theft has long been a concern, recent statistics paint a grim picture of its escalation throughout the USA and Canada. In this piece, we delve into the alarming uptick in car theft incidents, examine the underlying factors fuelling this trend, and outline crucial measures individuals can take to safeguard their vehicles and personal safety.
Diving into the Data
To grasp the severity of the issue, let’s start by examining the statistics. Did you know that in the U.S., a motor vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)? The nation witnessed a consistent uptick of approximately 25% in motor vehicle thefts from 2019 to 2022, with the total annual theft count surpassing 1 million in 2022 alone. Shockingly, the trend showed no signs of abating in 2023, with nearly 500,000 vehicles stolen in just the first six months, as reported by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).
Notably, vehicle theft rates surged notably in states like California, Texas, Washington, Florida, and Colorado, collectively accounting for 44% of all vehicles stolen in 2022.
Correspondingly, car theft rates in Canada have been on a steady rise, with recent research indicating that a car is stolen every five minutes across the country. Équité Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating insurance fraud, recently published a report shedding light on the recovery rates of stolen vehicles, revealing alarming findings. In Quebec, for instance, the recovery rate stands at a concerning 37%. In Atlantic Canada, while the recovery rate is relatively higher at 67%, a significant portion of the recovered vehicles were found burnt, a tactic used by thieves to eliminate evidence. Western Canada, encompassing Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia, records the highest recovery rate at 77%.
Moreover, aside from vehicle theft, there has been a startling surge in the theft of Catalytic Converters, with incidents increasing by 60% in 2023 alone and a staggering 1,700% rise observed between 2018 and 2022, as reported by Allstate Insurance, a trend reinforced by reports in Toronto. These valuable components can be swiftly removed from underneath your vehicle, and their prices are on the rise nationwide.
Which vehicles are frequently targeted by thieves?
Based on data from the III (Insurance Information Institute), certain makes and models are at a higher risk of theft. In 2022, the most stolen vehicles in the US included the 2004 Chevrolet Pickup and the 2006 Ford Pickup, with 49,903 and 48,175 reported thefts, respectively. The 2000 Honda Civic and the 1997 Honda Accord were also common targets, each with around 27,000 thefts reported. Additionally, vehicles like the 2013 Hyundai Sonata, 2017 Hyundai Elantra, and 2015 Kia Optima were frequently stolen. In Canada, the Honda CR-V topped the list of stolen vehicles in 2022, with 5,620 reported thefts, according to Équité. Following closely behind were the Dodge RAM 1500, Ford F150, Lexus RX Series, and Toyota Highlander.
Moreover, there are reports that Kia and Hyundai cars not fitted with new security measures are particularly vulnerable to theft. According to the National Public Radio’s (NPR) website, more than eight million Hyundais and Kias from model years 2011 to 2022 can be hotwired using a USB cable and do not have an engine immobilizer, a standard anti-theft mechanism that prevents the engine from starting unless the vehicle’s key is nearby. In 2021 and 2022, a viral TikTok trend called the Kia Challenge showed users how to break the steering column of Kias and Hyundais using a USB cable to start the ignition. As for the theft of catalytic converters, Toyota Prius’s and Ford F250s are prime targets. These vehicles are ideal targets as their vatalytic converters are especially valuable with high platnium content, a high demand, and are easily accessible.
How to Prevent Car Theft
In 2022, over a million vehicles were stolen in the United States, resulting in a staggering $8 billion in losses. According to the NHTSA, more than half of these thefts occurred due to driver error, such as leaving keys in the car, with passenger cars comprising 74% of all stolen vehicles.
While advancements in automotive technology have made cars more attractive targets for theft, they have also introduced measures to combat it. Dash cams have become increasingly popular among vehicle owners seeking to protect their vehicles and themselves from theft and damage. These devices, mounted on the dashboard or windshield, capture footage of the vehicle’s surroundings, serving as a crucial tool for theft prevention and evidence collection, even when you’re away.
With a dash cam in place, you can deter potential thieves, provide authorities with valuable evidence in the event of a theft, and enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is under constant surveillance. Don’t wait until it’s too late – invest in a dash cam today and safeguard your vehicle against theft and vandalism.
Dash cams, especially Cloud dash cams like Aoedi, come equipped with sophisticated monitoring systems capable of alerting owners via smartphone apps to any suspicious activity, such as unauthorized entry or detected movement while the vehicle is parked. These real-time notifications enable swift action, potentially thwarting theft attempts before they escalate.
Our top recommendation is the Aoedi AD362 dash cam, renowned for its discreet installations and superior security features. Featuring a tamper-proof box unit that can be securely stowed away, the AD362 provides maximum protection for your vehicle. Learn more about how this advanced dash cam can help prevent car theft by reading our blog here.
Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of car theft. Parking in well-lit, high-traffic areas can deter thieves looking for easy targets. Whenever possible, opt for secure or monitored parking lots equipped with surveillance cameras. Before leaving your vehicle unattended, remember to lock it and close all windows, even if only for a short time. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight inside the car, as they can attract opportunistic criminals.
Additionally, consider installing a car alarm system that triggers loud noises and flashing lights in response to unwanted entry or tampering. This serves as an effective deterrent against potential thieves.
Protecting your vehicle from car theft is now more important than ever. With the alarming increase in car theft cases, investing in a dash cam and smart security systems is not just a luxury but a necessity. Dash cams provide a crucial layer of protection by recording video evidence that can aid law enforcement in identifying and apprehending thieves. Additionally, the presence of a visible dash cam can act as a deterrent, dissuading potential criminals from targeting your vehicle.
Whether you’re receiving alerts on your phone or remotely monitoring your vehicle’s status, these technologies empower you to take proactive measures to safeguard your property and prevent theft. Remember, in the battle against car theft, vigilance and preparedness are your strongest allies. Let potential thieves know that they are being watched, and take decisive action to protect your vehicle and your peace of mind.
Post time: Apr-10-2024