Because no state requires this insurance, you'll need to add it if you only have the bare minimum.

Car theft insurance at a glance

Is a stolen car covered by car insurance?

A stolen car can be covered by car insurance, but only if you have comprehensive coverage. This coverage pays the current value, or actual cash value, of your vehicle if it is stolen and not recovered.

A deductible is the amount you pay before your insurance pays the rest of the claim. If you have an older vehicle, compare its value to the cost of your deductible and the amount you pay for coverage. If the difference isn't significant, you probably don't need comprehensive insurance.

In some cases, such as if you have a car loan or lease, you may be required to purchase comprehensive and collision insurance together. This could significantly increase your insurance bill because collision can cost twice as much as comprehensive, if not more.

Even so, you can still find a good deal. To get the best deal on car insurance, always shop around and compare rates.

Vandalism and theft of personal property

Vandalism is covered by comprehensive insurance, which includes broken windows and other damage caused by theft. This coverage also pays if a thief steals a specific component of your vehicle, such as your keys.

Is there anything it won't cover? Personal belongings in your vehicle To cover any belongings, minus your deductible, you'll need renters or homeowners insurance.

How to prevent car theft

Car thieves can be deterred by anti-theft systems such as external steering wheel locks, kill switches, and car alarms. Bonus: Installing an anti-theft system may entitle you to a discount on your auto insurance.

However, you do not need expensive equipment to protect your vehicle. Here are some additional methods for preventing car theft:

• If you are not in your vehicle, turn it off and take the keys with you. You can even do it in your own driveway.
• Lock all doors, windows and the trunk or hatch every time you leave your vehicle.
• When possible, choose off-street, highly visible, and well-lit parking spaces. Don't leave your car in an unattended parking lot or garage for an extended period of time.
• On your keychain, never write your name or address. If it goes missing, thieves can use this information to track down and steal your vehicle.
• Place your vehicle in front of an obstacle, such as a wall or guardrail. This makes it more difficult for thieves to tow or roll your car away if it cannot be started.
• Turn the wheels toward the curb and lock the steering wheel when parking on the street. Again, this makes it more difficult to tow your car away without causing damage.
• If it isn't already there, have your VIN number chemically etched on your windows by a car dealership or local police department. Etching makes it more difficult for thieves to resell your vehicle and its components.