July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month
July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month
July is Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, and AAA Insurance has tips to deter thieves. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), a vehicle is stolen every 48 seconds in the U.S. In urban areas, the risk of theft is even greater. While overall vehicle thefts were down 23% in the U.S. in 2025 compared to 2024, New York ranks fifth in the nation for the most stolen cars with 24,206 reported in 2025, according to NICB.
“Comprehensive insurance coverage is recommended, even if your vehicle is paid off,” explained David Kirst, AAA Insurance Sales and Operations Manager. “It can help cover a stolen vehicle, as well as damage from severe weather, falling trees, or an animal running into the road.”
Summer is often the worst season for vehicle theft, but the more layers of protection, the less likely your car will be stolen. AAA Insurance reminds drivers to always lock their car windows and doors, stow away belongings out of sight, and park in well-lit areas. Drivers should consider these four keys to car theft prevention:
- Awareness
Nearly half of vehicle thefts could have been prevented by the owner according to NHTSA. Whenever you leave your car, make sure you:
- Park in a well-lit area
- Lock the doors and close the windows
- Remove spare keys from inside the vehicle
- Move valuables and other items out of view
- Deterrence
Vehicles that are easy to break into and allow for a quick getaway are attractive to thieves. Visible theft deterrents signal that your car could be difficult to steal. Consider using:
- Steering wheel locks
- Brake pedal locks
- Theft deterrent decals
- Audible alarm systems
- Immobilization
Immobilizing devices prevent a car from being hot-wired. Many late model vehicles come with standard immobilization devices, and some after-market options are available for earlier model cars. These include:
- Smart keys
- Fuse cut-offs and kill switches
- Starter or fuel pump disablers
- Wireless ignition authentication systems
- Tracking
A tracking device emits a signal when a vehicle is stolen. Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles. Some systems employ telematics, which combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring of a vehicle.
Auto liability insurance is required in all 50 states, but comprehensive coverage is optional. Learn more at www.AAA.com/Insurance.