July is Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month is observed from July 1–31, 2026, with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) leading awareness efforts to reduce motor vehicle theft.

Why It Matters

In 2025, over 650,000 vehicles were stolen in the United States, with a vehicle stolen roughly every 48 seconds.  Summer months, including July, see the highest theft rates, making prevention efforts especially important.

Key Prevention Tips

NHTSA and local public safety agencies recommend:

• Lock it or lose it — Always lock all doors and windows, even for short trips
• Remove valuables — Phones, bags, tools, and loose change can attract thieves; keep them hidden
• Key fob awareness — Avoid leaving key fobs near doors; consider signal-blocking pouches for keyless entry systems
• Park in well-lit areas — Visibility deters theft
• Hide valuables inside — Avoid leaving items visible from outside the vehicle
• Do not leave the area while the vehicle is running. It only takes seconds to steal a vehicle.

Anti-Theft Devices

Consider adding protection if your vehicle lacks built-in systems:

• Audible/visible deterrents (alarms, steering wheel locks, flashing lights)
• Immobilizing devices that prevent hot-wiring or bypassing ignition systems
• Recovery systems that help law enforcement locate stolen vehicles

If Your Vehicle Is Stolen

• Contact police immediately to file a stolen-vehicle report
• Provide details about the vehicle, including any anti-theft devices installed.

Resources

For more information, visit the NHTSA Vehicle Theft Prevention page:

NHTSA.gov/VehicleTheftPrevention NHTSA.