Tariffs On Auto Parts Could Make Cars More Valuable To Thieves

Walk outside one morning and all you may find left of your car is smashed window glass. Insurers say that one consequence of President Trump’s proposed tariff on imported automobiles and automotive parts, in addition to increased car prices, could be an upsurge in vehicle thefts -- and hikes in auto insurance premiums. The reason: if car parts become harder and costlier to obtain, then thieves, chop shops and black marketeers will steal more automobiles. Auto thefts have already risen nearly 12 percent over the last three years, with the biggest jump -- 6.6 percent -- occurring in 2016 alone. And once thieves take hold of your Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, their blow-torches and crowbars will go to work.