Car theft is one of those risks people assume won’t happen to them—until it does. The good news is that many thefts are opportunity-driven , which means small habits and a few smart upgrades can reduce your risk. This guide covers practical theft prevention steps and what to know about insurance if your vehicle is stolen. (If you want the big-picture map of auto insurance, start here: Auto Insurance Explained (Personal) . ) Start with the basics that stop “easy” theft 1) Keep your keys with you—always Leaving keys in or near the vehicle is one of the fastest paths to a stolen car. If you use a key fob, store it away from doors/windows at home. 2) Lock every door, every time Even in your driveway. Even “just running in.” Thieves look for speed. 3) Hide valuables (or remove them) A visible bag or device can trigger a smash-and-grab—and sometimes that becomes a full theft. Make theft harder, louder, and riskier 4) Park with intention Choose: well-lit areas visible spots camera coverage when available 5) Use visible deterrents A steering wheel lock isn’t perfect—but visible friction makes a thief move on faster. 6) Add modern layers Depending on your vehicle, consider: alarms immobilizers GPS tracking / recovery tech The goal isn’t “invincible.” It’s “not worth the time.” Keyless entry: a modern weak point Some theft methods target keyless systems by capturing or mimicking a signal. Simple habits can help: store fobs farther from exterior walls consider a signal-blocking pouch if you’re concerned If your car is stolen: what insurance typically does (and doesn’t) cover This is where many people get surprised. Vehicle theft is usually a comprehensive claim. If you don’t carry comprehensive, the theft of the vehicle itself may not be covered. If you want the clear breakdown, read: Understanding Collision and Comprehensive Auto Coverage . Also note: Personal items inside the car are often handled by homeowners/renters insurance, not auto. Deductibles usually apply.