Auto theft is an unsettling experience for any car owner. In the United States, the problem has been escalating over recent years due to economic challenges and even social media trends that glorify car theft. While all vehicles can be targeted, certain models are stolen more frequently.
These vehicles may be easier to steal, more widely available, or have parts that fetch high prices on the black market. Understanding which cars are most at risk can help individuals and businesses take preventive measures to protect their vehicles.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), there were over one million reported car thefts in 2023, marking a 1% increase from the previous year. That equates to a vehicle being stolen every 32 seconds.
Certain states report higher theft rates than others, with California, Texas, and Florida leading in overall numbers. However, when adjusting for population size, Washington, D.C., Colorado, and Nevada experience the highest rates of theft. With car theft on the rise since 2019, it is crucial to stay informed about which vehicles are at the greatest risk.
Not all cars are stolen at the same rate. Thieves often target models that are easier to steal, lack advanced security features, or are widely available, making them difficult to trace. Some models have interchangeable parts, making them especially attractive for resale in the underground market.
Additionally, social media challenges like the Kia Boyz trend have spurred an increase in thefts of specific brands, particularly Hyundai and Kia. With these factors in mind, let’s examine the top ten most stolen cars in the U.S.
1: Chevrolet Pickup – A Prime Target
Chevrolet’s full-size pickup trucks top the list of most stolen vehicles. These trucks are widely popular, making them readily available targets. Additionally, their high resale value and ability to transport valuable goods make them even more attractive to thieves. The 2004 model is the most frequently stolen due to its outdated security features. With nearly 50,000 thefts annually, Chevy pickups remain a significant concern for owners.
2: Ford Pickup – Close Behind
Ford’s full-size pickups, particularly the F-150 and F-250 models, are another prime target. As the second most popular vehicle in the U.S., their widespread presence makes them an easy mark. In one notable 2022 incident, thieves stole nearly $1 million worth of F-150s from a factory lot. The 2006 model is the most commonly stolen, contributing to an annual total of 48,175 thefts.
3: Honda Civic – A Persistent Favorite
The Honda Civic has long been a favorite among car thieves. Its widespread ownership, especially in California, makes it a prime target. Older models, particularly from 2000, lack modern security features, making them easier to steal. Additionally, Civic parts are in high demand, allowing thieves to sell them quickly. In 2023, over 27,000 Civics were stolen nationwide.
4: Honda Accord – A Decade-Long Trend
Like the Civic, the Honda Accord has been a frequent victim of auto theft for many years. The Accord is the most popular car in the U.S., making up more than 3% of all vehicles on the road. Older models, especially from 1997, have minimal anti-theft features. The ease of reselling parts and the car’s widespread availability contribute to its high theft rate, with 27,089 stolen in 2023.
5: Hyundai Sonata – A Social Media Trend
The Hyundai Sonata’s rise in thefts can largely be attributed to the Kia Boyz social media craze. This trend exposed security vulnerabilities in older Hyundai and Kia models, leading to a dramatic spike in thefts, particularly among teenagers. The 2013 Sonata was the most stolen model, contributing to a total of 21,707 thefts in 2023.
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6: Hyundai Elantra – Another Kia Boyz Victim
The Hyundai Elantra follows the Sonata as another frequent target of the Kia Boyz trend. Despite automakers releasing security updates and settlements to affected owners, theft rates remain high. The 2017 model is particularly at risk, and overall, 19,602 Elantras were stolen in 2023.
7: Kia Optima – A Growing Concern
The Kia Optima is yet another victim of the social media-driven theft wave. Even after receiving software security upgrades, some models remain vulnerable. Older Optimas, particularly from 2015, are frequently targeted. In 2023 alone, 18,221 Optimas were stolen, highlighting the need for improved security measures in these vehicles.
8: Toyota Camry – A Declining Yet Significant Risk
While the Toyota Camry dropped in ranking from fifth to eighth place, it remains one of the most stolen vehicles in the U.S. Its affordability, reliability, and popularity make it an attractive target. Many older models lack sufficient security features, and thieves often steal Camrys for their easily resellable parts. The 2021 model was the most frequently stolen, with 17,094 thefts reported in 2023.
9: GMC Pickup – Another Pickup Truck Targeted
GMC’s full-size pickups share many components with Chevrolet trucks, making them just as desirable to thieves. The 2005 model is the most stolen due to its outdated security features. In total, 16,622 GMC pickups were stolen in 2023, demonstrating that pickup trucks remain a lucrative target for car thieves.
10: Honda CR-V – The Popular SUV
Honda’s CR-V rounds out the list as the most frequently stolen small SUV. Its popularity among families and residents in snowy regions means there are plenty on the road. Older models, particularly from 2001, are in high demand for their parts, leading to 13,832 thefts in 2023. Like other Hondas on this list, the CR-V’s longevity and ease of resale make it a prime target.
As car theft continues to rise, taking preventive measures is essential. Owners of frequently stolen vehicles should invest in anti-theft devices, park in secure areas, and use tracking systems. Law enforcement and manufacturers must also work together to improve vehicle security and reduce theft rates. By staying informed and proactive, car owners can help mitigate the risk of auto theft and protect their valuable assets.
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