Car theft remains a serious concern for Maryland drivers, affecting owners of sedans, pickup trucks, and popular family vehicles. Knowing which models are frequently targeted can help drivers make smarter choices about parking, security devices, insurance coverage, and everyday vehicle habits.
Maryland State Police reports that thousands of vehicles are stolen in the state each year, while theft prevention data shows that many stolen vehicles are left unlocked or have keys inside.
The latest Maryland vehicle theft information lists the Hyundai Elantra, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and several other familiar models among the most frequently stolen vehicles.
1. Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra ranks first on Maryland’s current list of most stolen vehicles. This compact sedan has been widely sold across the United States, making it a familiar sight on Maryland roads. Its popularity also means there are many examples in circulation.
Maryland State Police identifies the Elantra as the state’s leading stolen vehicle in its 2025 vehicle theft prevention information. The National Insurance Crime Bureau also ranked the Hyundai Elantra as the most stolen vehicle nationwide in 2025, with 21,732 reported thefts.
The theft history surrounding Hyundai vehicles has received significant attention in recent years. Certain older Hyundai models became particularly vulnerable to theft because they lacked an electronic immobilizer in configurations where competing vehicles commonly had that technology.
Social media trends also contributed to increased theft attempts involving some Hyundai and Kia models. Manufacturers responded with software updates, security improvements, and other measures intended to reduce the risk. NICB reported that thefts involving Hyundai and Kia vehicles continued to decline in 2025.
For Maryland Elantra owners, basic security habits remain important regardless of the vehicle’s model year. Drivers should lock every door, close the windows, take the keys or key fob with them, and avoid leaving the vehicle running while unattended. Parking in a well-lit location can also make unauthorized access more difficult.
Maryland State Police reports that 60 percent of stolen vehicles were left unlocked and 50 percent had keys inside the vehicle, highlighting how simple precautions can matter.
Owners can also consider additional security equipment when appropriate for their vehicle. A visible steering wheel lock, professionally installed alarm, GPS tracking device, or other compatible anti-theft technology can add another layer of protection.
Drivers should also check whether their specific Hyundai qualifies for a manufacturer security update or other theft-prevention measure. Security needs can vary according to model year and equipment, so owners should verify recommendations for their particular vehicle rather than assuming every Elantra has identical protection.
2. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord holds the second position on Maryland’s list of most stolen vehicles. The Accord has been popular with American drivers for decades because of its practicality, reliability, fuel economy, and broad availability.
Its large number of vehicles on Maryland roads contributes to its presence in theft statistics. Nationally, the Honda Accord ranked second among the most stolen vehicles in 2025, with 17,797 reported thefts, according to NICB data.
A frequently stolen vehicle does not necessarily have a single weakness that explains every theft. Older vehicles may have different security systems from newer versions, while thieves can also take advantage of unlocked doors, keys left inside, unattended running engines, or poorly secured parking locations.
The age and condition of a vehicle can influence its attractiveness as well. Parts availability and demand can also affect which vehicles receive attention from criminals.
Maryland drivers who own an Accord should develop a consistent parking routine. When possible, choose a secure garage or a well-lit location with regular foot and vehicle traffic.
Check that the doors are locked before walking away, and make sure no key fob or spare key has been left inside the vehicle. If the car has a manufacturer-approved security system or immobilizer, keeping that equipment functioning properly is important.
Insurance is also an important part of vehicle theft protection. Comprehensive auto insurance generally provides coverage for vehicle theft, subject to the terms, deductible, limits, and exclusions of the policy. Collision coverage by itself does not normally provide theft protection.
Drivers should review their policy and understand whether the vehicle’s current value, loan balance, and selected coverage are appropriate. Anyone financing an Accord should also understand the difference between comprehensive coverage and optional products such as gap insurance.
The Honda Accord’s position on Maryland’s list should encourage owners to take sensible precautions rather than create unnecessary concern.
A well-maintained vehicle with functioning security equipment, locked doors, and careful parking habits has better protection against opportunistic theft. Owners should also report a suspected theft to law enforcement and their insurance company as soon as possible. Prompt reporting can support recovery efforts and help begin the insurance claim process.
3. Hyundai Sonata
The Hyundai Sonata ranks third among Maryland’s most commonly stolen vehicles in the latest state information. Like the Elantra, the Sonata has been affected by the broader theft trend involving certain Hyundai models.
The Sonata is a midsize sedan that has been sold in large numbers, giving criminals access to many potential targets. National NICB data placed the Sonata third in 2025, with 17,687 reported thefts.
Security characteristics vary considerably by model year. Consumers should therefore avoid assuming that every Sonata has the same level of theft protection. Some older vehicles may have different immobilizer equipment from newer versions.
Hyundai has introduced theft-prevention measures in response to the theft trend, and the effectiveness or availability of a particular update depends on the vehicle. Owners should confirm their vehicle’s status through Hyundai or a qualified dealership.
Drivers can reduce opportunities for theft by making the vehicle harder to access and operate without authorization. Locking the doors should become an automatic habit.
Keys should never be left in the cabin, and spare keys should be stored securely at home rather than inside the vehicle. If a key fob is used, owners should keep it secure and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for protecting it.
Maryland’s theft statistics show why these habits deserve attention. According to Maryland State Police, 95 percent of stolen vehicles had no apparent anti-theft devices, 66 percent of thefts occurred at night, 60 percent involved vehicles that were left unlocked, and half involved vehicles with keys inside.
These figures do not mean every theft can be prevented, but they show that security measures and responsible parking can address several common opportunities.
Sonata owners should also consider how their parking environment affects risk. A private garage generally provides more physical protection than an exposed street parking space, while a well-lit area can provide better visibility than a dark location.
Owners who regularly park outdoors may benefit from combining several layers of protection instead of relying on a single measure. A visible steering wheel lock, functioning alarm, tracking device, and secure parking routine can work together to make theft more difficult.
4. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ranks fourth on Maryland’s current list. Pickup trucks are widely used throughout Maryland for work, transportation, recreation, and family needs, which creates a large population of potential targets.
The Silverado 1500 also ranks highly in national theft statistics. NICB recorded 16,764 thefts of this model in 2025, placing it fourth nationally.
Pickup trucks can attract attention for several reasons. Their high market demand gives stolen vehicles potential resale value, while individual components may also have value in illicit markets.
Work trucks may carry expensive equipment, tools, or other property, creating additional incentives for criminals to target them. Owners should therefore think about protecting both the vehicle and anything stored inside it.
Silverado owners can start with basic measures that require little effort. Lock the truck every time it is parked, take the keys with you, and avoid leaving valuable equipment in visible locations.
If tools must remain in the truck, secured storage can provide additional protection. Owners should also make sure factory security features are working correctly and investigate compatible aftermarket equipment if additional protection is needed.
Location matters as well. A truck parked overnight in a dark, isolated area can face a different level of risk from a truck secured inside a garage.
When a garage is unavailable, choosing a location with good lighting and regular activity may help reduce opportunities for theft. Businesses operating fleets of Silverado trucks can also use controlled-access parking, cameras, tracking systems, and documented key-management procedures.
5. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is fifth on Maryland’s current list of most stolen vehicles. The Civic is among the most recognizable compact cars in the United States and has been sold in large numbers for many years.
Its popularity, broad parts availability, and long production history contribute to its presence in theft statistics. Nationally, NICB recorded 12,725 stolen Honda Civics during 2025.
Civic owners should pay attention to the security equipment installed on their particular model year. Older and newer vehicles can differ in their immobilizers, alarms, key systems, and other technology.
This makes it important to use information specific to the vehicle rather than relying on general assumptions. A dealership or qualified automotive professional can help identify available security improvements when necessary.
Simple habits remain valuable for Civic owners. The driver should lock the vehicle whenever it is unattended, even during a short stop.
Keys should be removed from the vehicle, windows should be closed, and valuables should not be displayed through the windows. These steps reduce opportunities for both vehicle theft and theft of personal property.
Parking is another practical consideration. Whenever possible, drivers should select a secure garage or a well-lit location. Homeowners may also consider exterior lighting and cameras around their parking area. These measures are not guaranteed to stop a determined criminal, but they can improve visibility and create additional barriers.
The Civic’s high ranking should not discourage people from owning or driving the model. Millions of Civics are used safely every day. Instead, the ranking provides useful information for owners who want to assess their personal theft risk.
Combining good parking habits, functioning security technology, comprehensive insurance, and prompt action when something appears suspicious can provide stronger protection.
6. Kia Optima
The Kia Optima ranks sixth in Maryland’s current list. Although Kia discontinued the Optima name after the 2020 model year in the United States, many Optima vehicles remain on American roads. The model also appears prominently in national theft statistics. NICB reported 11,521 Optima thefts in 2025, placing it sixth nationwide.
Certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles received significant attention during the vehicle theft surge of recent years. The risk varied according to model year and equipment, so owners should identify the exact security configuration of their Optima.
Kia introduced theft-prevention measures and software updates for eligible vehicles, while some owners have also added physical security devices.
Optima owners should check for available manufacturer security improvements and make sure any applicable updates have been completed. A steering wheel lock can provide a visible physical barrier, while an alarm or tracking device may add additional protection. These measures should complement basic habits rather than replace them.
Maryland’s vehicle theft data shows that unattended vehicles can become easy targets when security precautions are ignored. The state reports that many stolen vehicles were unlocked or had their keys inside. Such circumstances can turn a short parking stop into a serious loss. Owners should therefore avoid leaving keys in the vehicle even when they expect to be away for only a few minutes.
The Kia Optima’s position on the list is particularly relevant for owners of older examples. A vehicle can remain valuable and useful long after its original purchase, meaning security should not be overlooked simply because the car is several years old.
Regular maintenance should include checking locks, keys, alarms, and other security equipment to ensure everything works as intended.
7. Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 ranks seventh among the vehicles listed by Maryland State Police. As a highly popular pickup truck, the F-150 has a large presence on Maryland roads. It also ranks among the most frequently stolen vehicles nationally. NICB reported 10,102 F-150 thefts during 2025.
The F-150’s widespread use means there are many versions on the road, ranging from basic work trucks to highly equipped models. Security technology can therefore differ substantially by model year and trim.
Owners should review their specific vehicle’s equipment and follow Ford’s recommendations for key security, locking systems, software updates, and available theft-prevention features.
Pickup owners should also think about what they transport. Construction workers, contractors, landscapers, and other professionals may leave tools or equipment in their trucks.
Losing these items can create expenses beyond the vehicle itself. Keeping expensive equipment out of sight or using locked storage can reduce the risk of property theft.
For overnight parking, a secure garage is helpful when available. If outdoor parking is necessary, lighting and visibility are useful considerations. Fleet operators can take additional steps by restricting access to keys, recording vehicle locations, installing tracking systems, and using cameras around company parking areas.
The F-150 ranking demonstrates that vehicle theft affects work vehicles as well as family transportation. Owners should not assume that a large pickup is too difficult or inconvenient for criminals to target.
Basic security habits combined with appropriate technology can make unauthorized access more difficult and can improve the chances of recovery if a theft occurs.
8. Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry ranks eighth on Maryland’s current list of most stolen vehicles. Like the Accord and Civic, the Camry has a long history of popularity among American drivers. Its reputation for practicality and reliability has helped make it a common vehicle on Maryland streets. National NICB data recorded 9,833 Camry thefts in 2025.
A vehicle’s popularity can influence theft statistics because criminals have access to a larger pool of potential targets. Common models may also have established parts markets and broad demand.
That does not mean every Camry owner faces the same risk. Local conditions, parking habits, security systems, vehicle age, and other factors all influence individual exposure.
Camry owners should maintain a consistent security routine. Lock the doors whenever leaving the vehicle, take the key with you, and avoid leaving the engine running while unattended.
Owners should also remove visible valuables. These steps protect the vehicle and reduce the chance of attracting attention to the contents inside.
Modern vehicle technology can provide useful protection, but owners should understand how their systems work. Keyless entry and remote-start features can offer convenience while requiring sensible key-fob security. Drivers should follow Toyota’s guidance for their particular model and use additional security equipment when it makes sense for their circumstances.
A stolen Camry can cause considerable disruption even when insurance covers the vehicle. Finding replacement transportation, dealing with paperwork, and replacing personal property can take time and money.
Preventive steps are therefore worthwhile. A secure parking location, locked vehicle, protected keys, working security technology, and suitable insurance can create a stronger defensive strategy.
9. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V ranks ninth among Maryland’s most stolen vehicles. The compact SUV has become a common choice for families, commuters, and drivers who want additional cargo space without moving to a larger SUV. Its popularity is reflected in national theft figures, with 9,809 CR-V thefts reported in 2025 according to NICB.
CR-V owners should pay attention to the model year because security technology has changed over time. A newer vehicle may have different protections from an older example. Understanding the equipment installed in the specific CR-V can help owners determine whether additional security measures are appropriate.
SUV owners also need to consider the contents of their vehicle. Families may leave bags, electronics, sports equipment, or other belongings inside the cargo area.
Even when these items have limited resale value, visible property can encourage break-ins. Removing valuables or storing them where they cannot be seen can make the vehicle less appealing to opportunistic criminals.
Parking in a secure location can provide another layer of protection. At home, a garage can reduce exposure, while motion-activated lighting and cameras may improve visibility around outdoor parking. During travel, drivers can choose busy, well-lit parking areas when practical. These measures cannot eliminate theft, but they can reduce opportunities.
10. Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima completes Maryland’s current top 10 list. The midsize sedan has been sold in large numbers throughout the United States, making it a familiar vehicle on Maryland roads. NICB recorded 8,445 Altima thefts nationwide during 2025, placing the model tenth in the national ranking.
Altima owners should treat the vehicle’s position on the list as a reason to pay attention to security rather than a prediction that their car will be stolen. Theft patterns can vary considerably between communities and individual neighborhoods. The age of the vehicle, its security equipment, parking location, and owner behavior can all influence risk.
The first steps are straightforward. Take the key with you, lock the doors, close the windows, and avoid leaving the engine running while unattended. If the vehicle has an alarm or immobilizer, make sure it is operating properly. Owners who want additional protection can consider compatible physical security devices or tracking technology.
Drivers should also be careful about where they park. A secure garage is preferable when available, while well-lit public parking can provide better visibility. At home, lighting and cameras can help monitor the area surrounding the vehicle. Owners should avoid leaving spare keys in obvious locations near the vehicle or inside an unsecured outdoor structure.
