Ford turns to stepped-up tech and cooperation with police to thwart F-150 pickup thieves
By COREY WILLIAMS
DETROIT (AP) — Ford Motor Co. has enhanced the technology in its popular F-150 pickup truck to stay ahead of the ever-evolving tactics of car thieves.
This move is part of the automaker’s ongoing efforts to help customers avoid the costly and frustrating experience of vehicle theft. One of the new features includes preventing the engine from starting even if the key fob is inside the pickup.
While motor vehicle thefts have been decreasing in the U.S. after years of increases, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over 850,000 vehicles were stolen in 2024, resulting in losses of $8 billion.
However, thefts dropped by 23% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
The F-150, a top 10 most stolen model, has been a target for thieves due to its popularity and the valuable items often stored in the pickups.
Ford introduced Stolen Vehicle Services with the 2024 F-150 model, which includes a “Start Inhibit” feature that allows owners to disable the engine from their smartphone using the FordPass app, making it impossible for thieves to start the pickup.
This security package is included with the purchase of the pickup and is free for the first year. After that, the cost is $7.99 per month.
Technology vs. Thieves
F-150 owners can receive alerts on their smartphones for potential thefts, unauthorized access, open doors, or movement of the vehicle.
One key feature of the security package is its coordination with law enforcement agencies, enabling quick response to stolen vehicles.
When a theft occurs, owners can contact Ford’s call center, which works with the police to shut down the engine using the “Start Inhibit” feature and track the location of the pickup.
“The sooner we recover the vehicle, the better chance of it being intact,” said Officer Ibrahim Kakish of the Detroit police commercial auto theft section.
Security Measures and Declining Theft Rates
Vehicle theft remains a lucrative crime, with stolen cars often resold or used in other criminal activities. However, security measures like those implemented by Ford are proving effective.
“Professional thieves are changing tactics, but our security measures are keeping up,” said Thomas Burke, a director with the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators.
Easy targets like vehicles with key fobs left inside are common among thieves, but advancements in security technology are reducing such incidents.
In Detroit, motor vehicle theft decreased from 9,260 in 2023 to 8,408 in 2024, with a further reduction this year.
“We’re continuously adapting to prevent vehicle thefts and collaborating with companies to enhance security measures,” Kakish stated.
