What Thieves Look For
You don’t have to drive a luxury car to be a target. In fact, most car break-ins happen not because of the vehicle itself but because of what’s inside. Thieves look for speed, ease, and resale value. Many of the most stolen items are things drivers don’t even think about. Everyday objects left behind during quick errands or long commutes can lead to smashed windows and stolen gear. So, before you leave your vehicle, know what makes it worth breaking into. Here are 20 items thieves target most often.
1. Sunglasses
Do you tend to leave sunglasses on your dashboard? Big mistake. Designer pairs especially catch eyes—and not just yours. Thieves swipe them fast because they’re valuable, easy to flip, and small enough to pocket. Even off-brand ones can disappear if they look expensive enough.
2. Purse
Leave a purse in plain view, and it’s basically bait. People spot straps or handles instantly and assume there are expensive items, like jewelry, inside. A smash-and-grab takes seconds. So, hiding it or taking it with you makes all the difference.
3. Wallet
Wallets tucked in glove boxes or under seats aren’t safe. Thieves know those hiding spots and go for them first. With IDs, credit cards, and cash packed into one item, it’s one of the easiest high-value things to steal.
4. Stereo Systems
Stereos still get stolen—yes, even built-ins. Aftermarket systems and amps are big targets, especially in older cars. Head units, speakers, and subs can easily be ripped out if they’re worth the hassle. High-end audio setups draw more attention.
5. Hood Ornaments
Hood ornaments—especially on luxury or classic cars—are weirdly collectible. Repeat offenders steal them just for bragging rights. Others flip them online. They’re easy to rip off and sell, and they disappear fast. Sure, locking mounts can help, but they’re not foolproof.
6. GPS Devices
Even without the device, leftover suction marks scream, “Expensive tech here.” Thieves look for those clues, then check glove boxes or under seats for GPS units. If it’s detachable, take it with you or stash it completely out of sight.
7. Laptops
See a laptop bag and assume there’s a laptop with accessories inside. That’s how crooks think. Just an empty case is enough to trigger a smash-and-grab. Electronics are high-value and easy to sell, so any visible tech gear instantly raises your car’s risk level.
8. Cash Or Loose Change
A few bucks in quarters might not matter to you but to a thief? It’s gas money. Loose change in trays or cup holders is easy to grab and go. Even small amounts are worth breaking in if the risk feels low enough.
9. Identification Documents
IDs and passports are gold to identity thieves. They’re often more valuable than cash. Leave that paperwork in plain sight, and you’re handing over all your details. Once stolen, fixing the damage can take months, sometimes longer.
10. Keys
Keeping spare keys—house, car, mailbox—inside your car is also a huge risk. Criminals who grab them may come back later or find your address through your registration. It’s not just a break-in anymore—it’s access to everything else you own.
11. Jackets And Coats
That coat slumped on your seat? To a thief, it screams opportunity. The bulk suggests something’s stashed inside, and if it’s a name-brand or heavy-duty winter piece, that alone could be worth swiping. Most thieves grab first, check later.
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12. Toolkits
Power tools, wrenches, or job-specific gear left in trunks or truck beds are also simple targets. They’re valuable and easy to resell. Work vehicles get hit often because they look like mobile toolboxes, and most don’t have extra protection built in.
13. Garage Door Openers
If someone steals your garage remote and finds your address in the glove box, they’ve basically got a key to your house. It’s the entry point for a follow-up break-in, especially when the car’s parked near your home overnight.
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14. Car Registration
Your registration has your name, address, and car details—everything a criminal needs to pose as you. They often take it with other documents, then use them in scams, resales, or to help steal the car itself later on. So, hide those papers carefully.
What's In Your Glovebox? by GloveBox
15. Groceries Or Shopping Bags
Bags left on the seat are easy to loot. Doesn’t matter if it’s just cereal or paper towels—thieves don’t know that. In busy cities, they’ll smash a window for store bags, hoping they’ve scored alcohol, electronics, or something valuable.
16. Phone Chargers
Cables seem minor, but thieves grab them constantly, especially branded or fast-charging ones. If it looks new or expensive, they’ll take it. Some just want a charger, others assume tech is nearby. Either way, it’s one more reason to clear your console.
17. Custom Car Accessories
Big touchscreen upgrades, flashy rims, or racing pedals stick out fast. Thieves love aftermarket parts because they’re pricey and simple to flip online. So, if something didn’t come with the car, chances are it makes your ride a bigger target.
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18. Dash Cams
Robbers spot suction mounts and go straight for them. Dash cams or GoPros are small, expensive, and easily resold. Even if the camera’s not there, the mount alone tips them off, so they’re tempted to check your car.
19. Footwear
Expensive-looking sneakers or even everyday name-brand shoes left on the floor can catch attention. High-value footwear is easy to recognize. Keep that Nike box or flashy Yeezy silhouette hidden—better yet, leave them at home.
20. Baby Seats Or Pet Carriers
Just because something’s bulky doesn’t mean it won’t get swiped. Pet carriers and baby seats are hot resale items—especially sleek, modern ones. No matter if they are locked in place. Leaving them visible invites the wrong kind of attention.
