Last week, we shared tips to keep your home protected while you’re away. This week, we’re turning to your vehicle—because whether it’s parked at the beach, airport, or right in your driveway, car break-ins and thefts are more common than you might think.
How Common Are Car Break-Ins and Thefts?
🚨 A vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the U.S.—and millions more are broken into each year.
📈 Incidents often spike in the summer, when people leave bags, electronics, or gear in plain sight while enjoying outdoor events, travel, or weekend adventures.
Most thefts happen for two simple reasons:
1️⃣ Opportunity – Unlocked doors, visible valuables, or a running car
2️⃣ Lack of deterrents – No alarm, poor lighting, or no security features
💡 The good news? A few intentional habits can significantly reduce your risk.
10 Ways to Protect Your Car from Break-Ins & Theft
1. Lock Your Doors & Roll Up Windows 🔑
Many thefts happen simply because the car was left unlocked.
✔️ Always lock your doors—even in your own driveway
✔️ Double-check that windows, sunroofs, and convertibles are closed
✔️ Manually confirm your vehicle is locked—some cars auto-unlock
2. Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Car 💼
If it’s visible, it’s vulnerable.
✔️ Remove purses, phones, laptops, bags, and cash
✔️ Stash items in the trunk before arriving at your destination
✔️ Even a phone charger or shopping bag can attract attention
“One client had their window smashed for a gym bag filled with dirty clothes. The damage totaled over $1,500—just for a bag of socks.”
3. Park in Well-Lit, Secure Areas 🔦
Visibility is one of the best deterrents.
✔️ Choose spots near lights, entrances, and security cameras
✔️ At home, park in a garage or under motion-activated lighting
✔️ Avoid dark or isolated areas when possible
4. Never Leave Your Car Running Unattended 🚘❌
Even a quick errand can create the perfect opportunity for theft.
✔️ Turn off the engine and take your keys
✔️ Use remote start systems with auto-lock features when warming up
✔️ Never leave pets or children in a running vehicle
🔐 Fact: Nearly 50% of stolen vehicles had the keys left inside.
5. Use Anti-Theft Devices & Alarms 🚨
Make your car a less appealing target.
✔️ Use a steering wheel lock or gear shift lock
✔️ Activate your car’s alarm system
✔️ Display theft-deterrent decals or use VIN etching
💡 Tip: Some insurance companies offer discounts for having anti-theft devices.
6. Protect Your Key Fob from Tech-Savvy Thieves 🔑📶
Thieves can use signal-boosting devices to access your car without ever touching it.
✔️ Store your fob in a Faraday pouch—a case that blocks wireless signals
✔️ Disable passive entry features if your vehicle allows it
✔️ Never leave spare keys inside or near your vehicle
💡 Tip: Push-start vehicles are especially vulnerable—take extra care at home and in public areas.
7. Use GPS Tracking 📍
If your car is stolen, tracking systems can help recover it quickly.
✔️ Install a hidden GPS tracker or use Apple AirTags
✔️ Many vehicles include built-in systems like LoJack or OnStar
✔️ Some systems allow remote disabling of the engine
8. Be Extra Cautious in High-Risk Areas 🚗⚠️
Where you park matters.
✔️ Avoid secluded garages or dimly lit areas
✔️ Choose monitored or staffed parking lots when available
✔️ If something feels off, trust your gut and move your vehicle
💡 Tip: Awareness goes a long way—take a moment to scan your surroundings when parking.
9. Check Your Auto Insurance Coverage 📜
Even the best prevention can’t stop everything. If something does happen, the right insurance coverage makes all the difference.
✔️ Comprehensive coverage protects against theft, vandalism, and more
✔️ Some policies cover stolen personal items and offer rental reimbursement
✔️ Review your policy before travel or vehicle upgrades
💬 Aspire Tip: We want to make sure that never happens to you. If you’re unsure about your policy, we’ll walk you through it clearly—so you feel confident in your coverage.
10. Stay Alert & Trust Your Instincts 👀
✔️ Pay attention to your surroundings when parking
✔️ Investigate if your alarm goes off unexpectedly
✔️ Do a quick walkaround before getting into your car—especially at night
Is Your Vehicle Fully Protected?
Even cautious drivers can become targets. A quick insurance review can give you peace of mind before the unexpected ever happens.
📞 Call us: (651) 760-8369, (715) 781-8217, (218) 741-0000, or (608) 755-1027
📩 Text Line: (651) 273-1143
📧 Email: hi@aspireinsurancegroup.com
At Aspire, we’re here to protect what moves you—from daily drives to weekend road trips. Because the best kind of insurance is the kind you don’t have to think twice about.