DIFS & Michigan State Police Urges Michiganders to Take Precautions with Their Vehicles During National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

Media Contact: DIFS-press@michigan.gov
Consumer Hotline: 833-ASK-DIFS, AutoInsurance@michigan.gov
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 14, 2025

(LANSING, MICH) July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) and the Michigan State Police (MSP) encourage Michiganders to take precautions to protect their vehicles from theft. According to Michigan Incident Crime Reporting, there were 21,600 stolen vehicles reported in the state in 2024. Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports more than 850,000 vehicles were stolen last year – a rate of one vehicle being stolen every 37 seconds. These thefts can lead to increased insurance premiums for consumers.

"Vehicle theft is all too common, and even more so during the summer months, making it important for consumers to take preventative actions to protect their vehicles from theft,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “Locking your doors and closing windows completely, keeping valuables out of sight, and adding anti-theft systems to your vehicle can protect you from experiencing a theft and may qualify you for discounts from many insurance companies. Talk to your insurance company or agent to make sure you are getting the discounts for which you qualify.”

“Awareness of what is occurring in your community, on your street, is a great way to help protect yourself and your vehicle,” said Col. James F. Grady II, Director of the Michigan State Police. “Through our Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA), we remain committed to tracking motor vehicle theft, combatting these crimes, and providing financial support and grants for theft prevention teams.”

There are several safety measures everyone can take to help protect their vehicle from theft or provide coverage in the event of a loss:

• Park in well-lit areas.
• Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
• Keep valuables out of sight.
• Do not leave your keys in your vehicle.
• Do not leave the area while your vehicle is running.
• Subscribe to your vehicle manufacturer’s communications, emergency services, and remote diagnostics systems.
• Consider purchasing comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive is an optional coverage you can buy that will provide coverage if your vehicle is stolen. In addition, comprehensive covers repairs if the vehicle is hit by a falling object, collides with an animal, or is damaged in a fire, flood, or by vandals.

There are also a variety of anti-theft systems and devices designed to make vehicles more difficult to steal or easier to trace and recover, including:

• Audible/Visible Devices: A horn alarm deters theft as it brings unwanted attention to a person attempting to enter or steal a vehicle. Visible devices use obvious warnings to deter thieves, such as steering wheel locks, theft-deterrent decals, flashing lights, and window etching.
• Car Immobilizer: This prevents a thief from bypassing a vehicle’s ignition system or hot-wiring a car. Some of these devices incorporate computer chips in ignition keys or disable the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine to prevent the car from starting without the key.
• Vehicle Recovery Systems: This uses electronic transmission technology to allow law enforcement to find stolen vehicles or even catch a thief in action.

If you fall victim to vehicle theft, these are steps you should take:

• Immediately contact the police. You will need a copy of the police report to provide to your insurance company to proceed with a claim.
• Contact your insurance provider to file a claim within 24 hours of the theft.
• If you happen to find your vehicle before law enforcement does, contact the police and your insurance company immediately.

For more information about vehicle theft prevention or to discuss auto insurance questions, call DIFS at 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, X, or LinkedIn.

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