Preventing and reducing motor vehicle thefts in the State of Washington.

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Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority

Preventing and reducing motor vehicle thefts in the State of Washington.

Prevent Vehicle Theft

Tips on what you can do to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen and ways to protect yourself when purchasing a vehicle through a private seller.

Let’s Drive Down Auto Theft

Have you heard? 45,033 vehicles were reported stolen in Washington in 2022. That’s 45% higher than in 2021.

You can help keep your car safe:

  • Don’t leave your car running
  • Keep valuables out of sight
  • Use an anti-theft device
  • Lock up every time
  • Park in well-lit areas

WATPA is sharing these tips as part of a campaign to help Washington vehicle owners prevent auto theft. Watch for the ads on social media and share with your family and friends.

You also can download a flyer, social media graphics and text, and other materials with theft prevention tips. We invite law enforcement agencies, car dealerships, insurance agents, schools and service organizations to download and share the materials with their communities. Tool kit: Drive down auto theft in Washington

Partner with us for your Community Events!

Tips to Protect Your Vehicle

  • Remove or Hide All Valuables
  • Lock Your Vehicle
  • Do Not Leave Keys or Fobs in Your Vehicle
  • Do Not Leave Your Vehicle Running Unattended
  • Use Anti-Theft Devices
  • Park in Well-Lit Areas

Tips to Protect Yourself

When buying a vehicle from a private seller:

  • If the price sounds too good to be true- it might be stolen
  • If the seller claims “lost” or “no title” it might be stolen
  • Verify that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is present and intact
  • Check the VIN through NICB’s Free VIN Check
  • Check to see if the seller’s name matches the paperwork
  • Ask to see and photograph the seller’s identification
  • If the seller balks at any of these precautions, leave and call the tip line immediately with all the information you have.

Anti-Theft Devices

  • Audible & Visual Alarms
  • Fuel Disabler
  • Battery Disabler
  • Pedal Locking Device
  • Steering Wheel Locking Device
  • Trailer Lock
  • Location Tracking Device

Catalytic Converter Theft Protection

  • Catalytic converters contain valuable metals (platinum, rhodium, and palladium)
  • Follow the same tips for protecting your vehicle from theft.
  • Etch your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the converter.
  • Install a shield or other anti-theft device.

Motorcycle Theft Protection

  • Place unique markings on your cycle and photograph them.
  • Use theft prevention devices such as wheel locks, alarms, or fork locks
  • Follow other tips to protect your vehicle.

Check out the National Insurance Crime Bureau for more information about theft prevention, frauds and scams related to vehicles, trailers and motorcycles.

Other Resources

Crime Stoppers

Useful Links

Law Enforcement Community Awareness

Other State & Auto Theft Sites