Car theft values escalating in Thuringia, according to insurance firms - Increased Value of Stolen Cars Reported by Insurance Firms in Thuringia
The economic damage from car thefts in the state of Thuringia has seen a significant increase, rising by nearly a third (32%) compared to the previous year. According to the German Insurance Association (GDV), this trend has been consistent for four consecutive years.
In 2024, the state of Thuringia recorded 166 instances of car thefts, a nearly 11% increase from the previous year. Despite this rise, Thuringia remains relatively safe for car owners compared to the national average.
Nationwide, the number of car thefts slightly decreased compared to the previous year, with 14,162 insured passenger cars stolen in 2023. The total damage from car thefts nationwide also slightly decreased, amounting to approximately 312 million euros.
Jörg Asmussen, CEO of the GDV, explained the increase in car thefts in Thuringia. He noted that high-value SUVs and models from the upper mid-range and luxury classes were particularly targeted by car thieves. The value of stolen cars in Thuringia has significantly increased, with insurers paying an average of over 20,100 euros per theft, a 19% increase from 2023.
The theft rate in Thuringia is two per 10,000 insured cars, which is below the national average of three per 10,000 cars. Comprehensive insurance, which offers protection for damage to your own vehicle such as theft, fire, storm, glass breakage, or wildlife collisions, is a voluntary additional insurance for cars.
The most frequently stolen car brands in Thuringia in 2024 are Japanese models, with Toyota (especially the Land Cruiser) and Lexus variants (NX and UX) topping the list nationwide, indicating they are likely among the most stolen in Thuringia as well.
It's essential for car owners to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their cars from theft. Installing an alarm system, parking in well-lit areas, and never leaving valuable items in plain sight can help deter potential thieves.
As the economic damage from car thefts continues to rise, it's crucial for authorities to take action to address this issue and ensure the safety of car owners in Thuringia and across Germany.
