Ford patents autonomous anti-theft parking

Ford has filed a patent for an autonomous car system designed to protect vehicles from theft by moving itself to a safer location when it detects suspicious activity on a parking lot. The patent, titled "Systems and Methods to Prevent Vehicle Object Theft," was filed in 2025 and published in 2026 by Ford Global Technologies, LLC.

System detects suspicious activity

The proposed system would use onboard sensors, cameras, radar, lidar, or ultrasonic sensors to monitor the environment around the vehicle on public or private parking lots. If the system identifies a potential theft risk, it could suggest a new parking spot or orientation to the driver through a human-machine interface (HMI).

Vehicle moves autonomously for security

The patent describes scenarios where the car could autonomously move to a safer location, even with the engine running, to reduce the risk of theft. This includes parking between two vehicles, on uneven ground, or lowering its suspension to make it harder for thieves to access parts like the catalytic converter or wheels.

Protecting the vehicle’s contents

The system also aims to protect the vehicle’s contents after the driver leaves. It could press the car against a wall or obstacle to prevent the tailgate or trunk from fully opening, making it harder for thieves to remove rear lights or expensive headlights. The user can choose which parts to prioritize based on parking conditions.

Theft remains a significant issue

Vehicle theft is a major problem, with over 850,000 cars stolen in the U.S. in 2024, resulting in about $8 billion in losses. Ford has previously offered services like Stolen Vehicle Services and Start Inhibit, which allows remote blocking of a car’s ignition. This new patent introduces a more proactive approach to theft prevention.

Patent stage only, with challenges ahead

Despite the innovative nature of the patent, the technology is still in the conceptual phase, with no clear timeline for production. Questions remain about regulatory approval for autonomous parking maneuvers and potential liability in case of accidents during such movements.