While theft laws can vary from state to state, they're generally defined as taking someone else's property without permission and consent. Most states also require that the offender intends to permanently deprive the victim of the property. Some states include auto theft within their general theft statutes, while other states have a separate statute that specifically addresses the theft of a car or automobile. In Michigan, the theft of a car is a separate statute from its other statutes addressing theft. Michigan's auto theft laws prohibit the theft of motor vehicles, which includes any vehicles driven by mechanical power, but that does not include traction engines, road rollers and such vehicles that only run on rails or tracks.

Below you'll find key provisions of auto theft laws in Michigan based on our research.

Statute(s): Michigan Compiled Laws Section 750.413 (Taking possession and driving away a motor vehicle)

What's Prohibited?

It's prohibited to willfully and without authority take possession of and drive/take away any motor vehicle that belongs to someone else. It's also prohibited to assist anyone doing so.

Charges and Penalties: Violation of this statue is a felony that's punishable by a prison term not exceeding 5 years.

Related Statute(s):

Michigan Compiled Laws

Section 750.356a (Larceny from motor vehicle)
Section 750.362a (Larceny of rented motor vehicle)
Section 750.367c (Theft of motor vehicle fuel)
Section 750.414 (Use of motor vehicle without authority but without intent to steal)

Quite complicated right? That’s why as a responsible owner, we must make sure that our vehicles are safe and secured by installing reliable alarm systems and by making sure that our transponder key is working properly. Also, we have to make sure that our vehicles are somewhere where we can see them and we don’t leave any personal belongings inside of our vehicles.

If you find that your transponder key and alarm system is not working, contact a reliable automobile locksmith in Michigan right away! You can trust Auto Lock Specialists LLC if you are in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Auto Lock Specialists LLC, a mobile automotive locksmith in Kalamazoo, offers the highest level of experience to fit your automotive locksmith needs. Call us at (269) 762-3753 if you wish to hire a locksmith in Southwest Michigan.