Auto Theft

Vehicle theft is declining, but the financial risk remains

There is encouraging news for drivers across the country: vehicle theft is on the decline. However, despite this progress, the financial risk to consumers remains significant.

New data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) shows that auto thefts nationwide decreased 23% from 2024 to 2025, following a 17% decline the previous year. This marks a continued downward trend after a period of elevated theft activity.

While fewer vehicles are being stolen, theft has not been eliminated, and the cost of these losses continues to rise.

Theft Trends in the Northwest

States across the Northwest are seeing meaningful improvements, but vehicle theft continues to impact thousands of drivers each year.

Washington

• Theft decreased 39%
• 18,039 vehicles stolen in 2025 
• Ranked 10th nationally for theft rate

Oregon

• Theft decreased 26%
• 8,868 vehicles stolen in 2025 
• Ranked 12th nationally

Idaho

• Theft decreased 22%
• 1,078 vehicles stolen in 2025 
• Ranked 50th nationally for theft rate

Even with this progress, auto theft continues to affect thousands of drivers each year.

Why This Matters for Insurance Consumers

Even as theft rates fall, the financial impact of auto theft is increasing, as the cost to repair or replace stolen vehicles continues to rise. For drivers, this means vehicle theft is not just a crime issue, it’s also a cost issue that can directly affect insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.

Understanding Your Insurance Coverage

A common misconception is that all auto insurance policies cover theft. In most cases, they do not.

Coverage for vehicle theft is typically included under comprehensive coverage (also known as “other than collision”). This optional coverage helps pay to repair or replace a stolen vehicle, up to policy limits and after any deductible.

Comprehensive coverage may also protect against other non-collision losses, including:

• Fire 
• Hail and windstorms 
• Glass damage 
• Animal collisions

Without this coverage, consumers may be responsible for the full cost of replacing a stolen vehicle.

Steps Drivers Can Take to Reduce Risk

While no prevention method is foolproof, simple precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood of vehicle theft:

• Park in well-lit, high-visibility areas 
• Always lock doors and close windows 
• Remove or conceal valuables inside the vehicle 
• Never leave keys inside the vehicle 
• Avoid leaving a vehicle running unattended

Consistently practicing these habits can help deter theft.

What To Do If Your Vehicle Is Stolen

If your vehicle is stolen, taking immediate action is critical:

1. Report the theft to law enforcement 
2. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible

Prompt reporting improves the chances of recovery and helps initiate the claims process without delay.

Reporting Theft and Fraud

In some cases, vehicle theft is linked to insurance fraud. Individuals with information about theft or suspected fraud can report it anonymously to the NICB by calling 1-800-TEL-NICB or submitting a tip online.

Bottom Line

The decline in vehicle theft is a positive development, but it does not eliminate the risk to consumers.

Understanding your insurance coverage and taking basic preventive steps remain essential. As theft-related costs continue to rise, being informed and prepared can help protect both your vehicle and your financial well-being.