Vehicle theft is a growing concern across the country, and Florida ranks among the top states for stolen vehicles. Whether you own a car, truck, SUV, motorcycle, or even a golf cart, protecting your investment requires both practical security measures and the right insurance coverage.
At The Windward Insurance Agency, we’re committed to helping you stay informed and protected. Below, we share the latest car theft trends, the most stolen vehicles in Florida, and proven vehicle theft prevention tips for Florida drivers.
Why Car Theft Is on the Rise in Florida
In 2023, Florida reported more than 46,000 vehicle thefts, making it the state with the third-highest rate of auto theft in the nation. Although the total number of car thefts in Florida declined slightly in 2024, Florida remains third in the nation for car theft, after California and Texas.
A mix of high-tech tools, organized car theft rings, and simple crimes of opportunity continues to drive Florida’s high rate of vehicle theft. Unfortunately, stolen vehicle recovery rates remain low. Many vehicles are either shipped out of state or stripped for parts before law enforcement has a chance to locate them. It’s why knowing the most effective vehicle theft prevention tips for Florida drivers is more important than ever.
Most Stolen Vehicles in Florida
Based on 2024 NICB data (as reported by ClickOrlando.com), the top stolen vehicles in Florida reflect a mix of sedans, trucks, and SUVs. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequently targeted makes and models:
The above models are popular among car thieves due to their resale value, parts demand, and – depending on the year – lack of certain anti-theft technology. If your car is on this list, be sure to review the 12 vehicle theft prevention tips for Florida drivers section below.
Common Ways Thieves Steal Vehicles Today
Criminals today are more sophisticated than ever, using advanced technology alongside old-fashioned tactics to steal vehicles quickly and quietly. These methods often require little physical force, making it harder for vehicle owners to detect or prevent them without taking proactive measures.
- Key fob relay attack: Thieves use these devices to amplify the signal from a key fob inside your home, allowing them to unlock and start your car parked outside. This wireless hack exploits a vulnerability in the keyless entry system.
- Electronic key cloning: Criminals plug devices into your vehicle’s diagnostic port – often found under the dashboard – to program new electronic keys and drive away within minutes.
- Vehicle wiring hack (CAN attacks): Thieves physically access your car’s wiring – often by removing a headlight or body panel – and use a hacking device to send fake signals to unlock doors and start the engine. This method exploits the car’s internal communication system, called the controller area network (CAN), without needing a key or key fob.
- Traditional break-ins: Unlocked doors, open windows, and valuables in plain sight remain classic temptations.
- Golf cart thefts: Often left unsecured or parked outside, golf carts are easy targets, especially in Florida communities where they’re widely used.
Understanding these methods helps you apply the right vehicle theft prevention tips for Florida drivers to stay one step ahead.
12 Practical Vehicle Theft Prevention Tips for Florida Drivers
Reducing your risk of vehicle theft starts with simple habits and smart technology. Whether you’re parking at home, running errands, or heading out for a weekend trip, these tips can help deter thieves and protect your investment.
- Always lock your vehicle and close windows completely. It sounds simple, but many thefts happen because a door was left unlocked or a window cracked open.
- Never leave keys or key fobs inside the vehicle. Even a hidden spare key makes your vehicle an easy target.
- Use signal-blocking boxes/pouches for key fobs. Also known as Faraday bags, these block key fob signals from being amplified by thieves using relay devices.
- Use visible locks & block towing. Install a steering wheel or brake pedal lock to discourage thieves. Also, turn your front wheels fully to one side and set the emergency brake – this makes it harder to tow your vehicle away quickly.
- Install a GPS tracking device. While a GPS tracker can’t prevent theft, it greatly increases the chances of recovering your vehicle if it’s stolen. Some devices even send instant alerts if your vehicle moves unexpectedly.
- Consider a kill switch. A professionally installed kill switch can prevent the engine from starting until it’s deactivated. This is a powerful anti-theft tool, especially for older cars.
- Park in well-lit, busy areas. Thieves prefer working in darkness and isolation. Choose parking spots near streetlights or security cameras whenever possible. Simple vehicle theft prevention tips for Florida drivers like this can make a big difference.
- Add physical barriers for golf carts. Install a battery kill switch or ignition lock unique to your golf cart model and always secure it to a fixed object with a heavy-duty chain.
- Avoid remote start while unattended. Starting your car from inside the house can give thieves a head start if they break in.
- Never leave items visible – even trash. Thieves may break in just to see what’s under a bag or jacket. It’s not just what you leave, but what they think you left.
- Install an aftermarket alarm with motion sensors. Many modern vehicles lack audible alarms. An aftermarket system with tilt/motion detection can stop both break-ins and tow-away theft.
- Use VIN etching on windows. VIN etching helps to deter stealing your vehicle for parts because it costs them more to remove the VIN number.
Implementing even a few of these vehicle theft prevention tips for Florida drivers can make a significant difference in keeping your vehicle safe.
What to Do If Your Vehicle Is Stolen
If you discover your vehicle has been stolen, acting quickly is critical. The faster you report the theft and provide accurate details, the better the chances of recovering your vehicle and minimizing your financial loss.
- Contact local law enforcement: File a police report with detailed information including the make, model, VIN, and any distinguishing features.
- Activate any installed GPS tracking devices: If you have a tracker, share its location data with law enforcement immediately.
- Notify your insurance provider: Contact your agent at The Windward Insurance Agency to initiate a claim. Provide a copy of the police report and all relevant documentation.
Keep in mind many police departments, especially in Florida, don’t actively search for stolen vehicles unless they encounter them abandoned. This makes prevention and quick reporting crucial.
Is Car Theft Covered by Insurance?
Wondering if your current insurance policy will cover a stolen vehicle? The answer depends on the type of coverage you carry. Not all auto policies automatically include theft protection, so it’s important to review your policy and understand exactly what’s covered – especially when considering vehicle theft prevention tips for Florida drivers.
- Comprehensive auto insurance: This is the coverage you need for theft-related losses. If your policy doesn’t include comprehensive coverage, you may be left covering the loss yourself.
- Motorcycle and golf cart coverage: Windward offers specialized motorcycle insurance and ATV insurance policies to protect these vehicles from theft and other risks. Depending on who you have your homeowners insurance with, your golf cart may already be covered!
Our licensed agents can help you review your current policy to ensure you have adequate theft protection – before it’s too late.
Stay Protected with The Windward Insurance Agency
Florida’s high rate of vehicle theft makes it essential to protect your car, motorcycle, or golf cart with the right mix of security and coverage. From smart prevention strategies to comprehensive insurance coverage, The Windward Insurance Agency is here to help. Call us today at (866) 231-2433 for a quick policy review or get a hassle-free quote online now. Let’s make sure you’re fully covered against life’s unexpected risks.
