For National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, DIFS & Michigan State Police Encourage Michiganders to Take Precautionary Steps with Their Vehicles

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Consumer Hotline: 833-ASK-DIFS, [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 14, 2026

(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) are urging Michiganders to take precautions to protect their vehicles from theft. Current Michigan Incident Crime Reporting totals show there were more than 18,600 stolen vehicles reported in the state in 2025. These thefts can lead to increased insurance premiums for all Michiganders.

"Taking steps to protect your vehicle from theft can help you avoid major life disruptions and may even lower your insurance costs if your insurer offers anti-theft discounts," said DIFS Director Anita Fox. "Vehicle theft increases premiums for everyone, and DIFS will continue working with the Michigan State Police and our partners to hold criminals accountable and protect consumers."

"Vehicle theft is often a crime of opportunity - one you can protect yourself against by taking simple preventative measures," said Col. James F. Grady II, Director of the Michigan State Police. "Through the Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA) and our auto theft investigative teams, we continue to monitor vehicle theft trends, address these crimes, and provide financial grants to support prevention, investigation and prosecution statewide."

There are several safety measures motorists 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.
• Do not keep valuables in your vehicle. If you must, keep them out of sight whenever possible.
• Do not leave your keys in your vehicle.
• Do not leave the area while your vehicle is running.
• Consider subscribing 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.
• Catalytic Converter Etching/Anti-theft Device: Catalytic converter anti-theft devices are available from various manufacturers and can provide a level of security from theft. Etching the last 8 digits of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the metal of the converter can help deter thieves by making it harder for them to sell stolen converters to legitimate scrap yards and metal dealers.

If your vehicle is stolen, follow these steps:

• 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 as soon as possible after the theft.
• • It is important to note that personal property inside a vehicle is not covered by the auto insurance policy but may be covered under a homeowners or renters insurance policy.
• If you happen to find your vehicle before law enforcement does, contact the police and your insurance company immediately.

DIFS recommends reviewing policy documents or contacting your insurance agent or company to understand your coverage before you experience a loss, so you can make sure you are financially protected. If you have questions or concerns with your insurance policy or wish to file a complaint, contact DIFS at 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.

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. Translation services are available for individuals with limited English proficiency who contact the Department. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, X, or LinkedIn.

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