What Happens to Stolen Cars?
Stolen vehicles are often used briefly for transportation, to facilitate other crimes, or dismantled for parts; many are recovered within days or weeks. Simple security measures can greatly reduce the risk of theft.
Contrary to the common image of a thief driving a stolen car forever, stolen vehicles are frequently used for short-term transportation, to commit other crimes, or are stripped for parts; some are altered with fake VINs or sold with fraudulent paperwork. Law enforcement recovers many stolen vehicles within days or weeks, and prevention—locking doors, taking keys, not leaving cars running, parking in well-lit areas, and removing valuables—is the most effective defense.