Putting the brakes on stolen vehicles

Despite declines in vehicle thefts over the last couple of years, motor vehicle theft remains a serious concern in the U.S., with a total of 659,880 vehicles stolen in 2025. That’s a vehicle stolen every 48 seconds¹ and dealerships continue to be a major target for criminals.

Whether large-scale thefts by unauthorized transport carriers or vehicles stolen from store lots by just one or two criminals, dealerships are vulnerable, especially as criminals learn to exploit modern vehicle systems. Criminal techniques evolve as security measures advance. However, a diligent approach to protecting your current inventory and vehicles in transit can help greatly reduce your chances of being victimized.

Theft trends

Effectively reducing opportunities for theft requires an up-to-date understanding of risk exposures. Modern vehicle technology has created great conveniences, but also new exposures. Some techniques for theft that have become common include:

• CAN injection: Criminals bypass alarms by injecting signals directly into the vehicle’s Controller Area Network wiring.
• OBD port cloning: Thieves exploit on-board diagnostic systems to program new remote key fobs.
• Keyless entry exploits: Remote fobs and keyless ignition systems can be exploited via relay attacks and signal boosters that enable remote unlocking and ignition.

Auto manufacturers have developed technology to address these exposures, such as Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology to combat relay attacks and signal boosting, and they will certainly roll out other theft reduction tools in the future. However, as mentioned above, criminals innovate as well, so dealerships need to implement technological and physical obstacles to theft.

Protecting on-site vehicle inventory

Imagine a high-end jeweler or art gallery leaving valuable necklaces or paintings exposed to anyone passing by. Yet, for dealerships, displaying vehicles worth tens of thousands of dollars is standard practice. Protecting your on-site inventory requires tried-and-true security measures and the latest surveillance technology.

• Secure entry and exit points: Despite risks of theft and vandalism, many dealerships still operate without perimeter fencing or controlled gate access. Whether it’s due to costs or the belief it ruins sales display, lack of perimeter security leaves your vehicles at greater risk. Theft isn’t just an after-hours problem. Vehicles can be stolen in broad daylight, even during test drives. Having authorized personnel near property access points and hiring security services can help safeguard your lot.
• Alarms and surveillance: Make sure every building on your property is protected by up-to-date security and alarm systems, monitored and tested regularly. Video monitoring systems should include motion-activated cameras and, if possible, be observed by a security professional for maximum coverage.
• Key control: Keys and fobs change hands many times throughout the day, whether vehicles are on the lot, in the showroom or the service department. Maintaining strict key management is essential and should include these steps:
• Store keys and fobs in locked cabinets or drawers and limit access to required staff.
• Keep a log of keys and fobs removed from cabinets or drawers and conduct end-of-day key counts.
• Use an electronic key-tracking system.
• Store fobs in signal-blocking metal mesh bags when not in use.
• Disable keyless features on vehicles when not part of active transactions.
• Customer-facing deterrents: Visible deterrents such as steering wheel locks, window security decals, and immobilizers help prevent theft while also reassuring customers.

Protecting vehicles in transit

Criminal, unauthorized transport dispatchers target dealerships by directing vehicle deliveries to fraudulent locations. Once the vehicles arrive, the thieves simply drive away. These operations can be very convincing, but there are actions that can thwart the scheme:

• Ensure any external transport services you work with are reputable. Follow your security protocols and conduct rigorous background checks on their employees.
• Whether drivers are your employees or from an outside transport service, make sure they know approved routes and drop-off sites, and always verify any changes.
• Make thorough security training part of driver training, including how to spot suspicious instructions and steps to take when identified.
• Implement emergency protocols and train drivers to follow them, including when to contact law enforcement.
• Use GPS tracking, alarms and immobilizers.
• Keep detailed records of all communications during vehicle transport.

These are just some actions that can help reduce the risk of theft by unauthorized carriers. For more guidance, refer to our Loss Prevention bulletin, Auto Transport Theft.

Future-ready solutions

Building on foundational theft-prevention strategies, Zurich Resilience Solutions (ZRS) equips auto dealerships with advanced risk engineering tools and guidance to address emerging threats and evolving criminal tactics. Here are some tools and practices designed to strengthen your dealership’s security:

• AI-powered surveillance: Smart cameras can detect suspicious behavior and trigger real-time alerts.
• Telematics integration: Monitor vehicle movement and access using connected data.
• Cybersecurity for connected vehicles: This can help safeguard digital systems from hacking and unauthorized access.
• Internal controls: Strengthen security with role-based access, employee vetting and digital audit trails.

Enhancements like these can complement traditional theft prevention strategies and position your dealership for long-term resilience. With a commitment to innovation and tailored support, ZRS helps dealerships safeguard their inventory, reputation, and long-term profitability.

For more information, contact your Zurich Risk Engineering representative.

This is an updated version of an article originally published in the Fall/Winter 2025 issue of Dealer Principal magazine.

Additional resources

Loss Prevention: Auto Transport Theft

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Vehicle Theft Prevention

National Insurance Crime Bureau: Prevent Auto Theft

1. Steward, McKynzie. “These are the Most-Stolen Cars of 2025.” Kelley Blue Book. 27 March 2026.