As recent video footage taken in South Florida shows, car thefts in this area of the States happen more frequently than in past years. Although car thefts were down in the 90s because it became more difficult to steal a car, the trend has returned after 2022, with a worrying theft rate that doesn’t seem to let it up.
The Unstoppable Car-Theft Trend in the US
Also, video surveillance videos show that today’s car thieves take only 10 seconds to steal a car. According to the police, one of the techniques to spot a vehicle to steal for thieves is to look at its mirrors: when they are deployed out, the key is inside the vehicle. Some car thefts are because of owners forgetting the keys in the vehicle.
However, the car theft trend in some American regions has become troubling and violent over the recent months. The National Insurance Crime Bureau in the US reveals that over one million vehicles have been stolen for the first time since 2008, especially in Florida, which ranks fifth in the US top-most stolen vehicles in 2022 alone, with nearly 46,000 units.
The Most Stolen Vehicles
Pickup trucks are the most chosen vehicles by American buyers. But these trucks are also the favorite to steal for car thieves. In 2021, pickup trucks were the most stolen vehicles across 36 states out of 50. In the other 27 states, pickups were the second-most stolen vehicles.
Chevrolet and Ford full-size pickup trucks are the first and most appealing targets for thieves, although older models are preferred because of their inadequate anti-theft measures. Honda Accord pickup trucks were the most stolen vehicles in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Virginia. On the other hand, the Jeep Cherokee (Grand Cherokee) was the primary target in Illinois, while the Honda Civic attracted thieves in Minnesota.
As you can see in this list of most frequently stolen pickup trucks by state in the US, Hyundai Elantra gained position number one with 1,006 thefts in 2017 alone. The list offers a 360-degree overview of the most-targeted car models and brands, year by year.
Best Anti-Theft Car Devices
The car theft emergency in the US requires car drivers to gain awareness about the problem and how to prevent it. We’ve asked for car locksmith technologies and anti-theft measures to help American car owners protect their vehicles. From broken car locks to forced ignitions, car locksmiths know how to operate to fix the damage after an attempted car theft. However, the following devices will help you safeguard your vehicle and reduce the risk.
1) Steering Wheel Brake Lock
Essential and fully metal, a steering wheel brake lock makes your vehicle inoperable when parked. It’s a versatile anti-theft device. Once you’ve attached an end to the car’s steering wheel and the other behind the clutch or brake pedal, it will be impossible to move your vehicle. The steering wheel brake lock is an excellent option for a quick install to improve yoru car’s anti-theft measures.
2) Twin Hooks
The twin hooks work as a visual deterrent for would-be car thieves. Twin hooks attach to the car’s steering wheel, and their elongated bar prevents anyone from turning the car. This anti-theft device makes the vehicle undrivable. With their vibrant colors, twin hooks catch the attention of thieves from a few feet away.
3) Wheel Lock
Wheel locks are security tire clams that car owners can install quickly and simply. According to experts, its effectiveness might not be superb. However, this device makes the car impossible to move as it blocks the wheels. Its bright yellow and red colors make it visible to would-be car thieves.
4) GPS Tracker
This tracking device reveals the location of your vehicle in case of theft. Additional features of GPS car trackers include vehicle diagnostics, fuel level, and more. Most models require an activation fee for the first year of service. When contacting the police for a car theft, the tracker will smoothly conduct them to the place where the thieves might still be.
5) Faraday Bag
While keyless entries are comfortable for owners, they make it possible for car thieves to duplicate the radio frequency of the key, which paves the way for car theft. A Faraday bag blocks out the electromagnetic waves of the car to prevent potential thieves from scanning the key.
Finally, car locksmiths recommend not to leave the keys inside the car when parked. Also, contact the police if you notice suspicious movements around your vehicle.