Top 10 Most Stolen Cars in America
Valerie Raskovic
Jan 31, 2024
Despite advancements in vehicle security technology, car theft remains a prevalent issue in America. Car thieves are continuously adapting and getting better at circumventing factory installed vehicle anti-theft devices and ignition systems. Certain vehicles attract thieves more than others. That's why we've put together this list of the top 10 most commonly stolen vehicles in America.
#10 Jeep Grand Cherokee
At the number ten spot we have the Jeep Grand Cherokee as the vehicle is popular with criminals due to their desirable components, relatively easy to circumvent ignition systems and overall popularity.
#9 Toyota Camry
The primary reason for the Toyota Camry being on this list is its wide spread popularity. Many thieves will specifically target the Toyota Camrys because they’re easier and faster to resell.
#8 Toyota Corolla
The Corolla's ubiquity and the demand for its parts and wide spread popularity make it an attractive target for thieves.
#7 Honda Accord
The Honda Accord has long been a favorite among thieves due to its prevalence on the road and the high demand for spare parts. Also, Honda Accord models prior to 1998 did not feature anti-theft immobilizer technology making them very easy to start with just basic tools.
#6 Hyundai Elantra and other Hyundai models made between 2011 to 2017
Both Hyundai and Kia models have made it to the latest NICB ranking of the most stolen vehicles in 2022. The main issue is that as the parent company Hyundai manufactured these Hyundai and Kia vehicles with subpart anti-theft systems making them a prime target for thieves. Some years of the Hyundai Elantra are more susceptible than others. Check with your local dealership to ensure your vehicle has the latest software updates.
#5 Honda CR-V
Thieves predominantly target 2001 CR-Vs due to less advanced anti-theft systems. Additionally, Honda's reputation for reliability contributes to a significant market for used cars and parts.
To enhance theft deterrence, Honda introduced additional measures in 2002 CR-V’s. Cars originally equipped with keyless entry underwent modifications, incorporating a "copy protection system" to increase the difficulty of cloning entry codes.
#4 Nissan Altima
The Altima's prevalence on American roads makes it a target, especially for its parts. This vehicle is also used in more violent crimes making it a favorite amongst criminals, primarily due to its predictable handling characteristics and abundance.
#3 Kia Optima
Thefts of the Kia Optima went viral when criminals showed how they started this vehicle with just a screwdriver and a USB wire. The Kia anti-theft systems are very easy to circumvent with 2015 being the most suspectable model year. Kia has made some improvements in the anti-theft software however, the Kia Optima still remains among the top 5 most stolen vehicles in the USA.
#2 Ford Pick Up Trucks
In 2022, full-size Ford pickups held the second-highest position for overall thefts in the U.S., surpassing 48,000 stolen vehicles. The most targeted model year is 2006 mainly due to the ease of stealing older F-Series trucks, which have an easy to access ignition switches located under the steering column. The door handles are also easily removable, providing quick access for thieves to these vehicles.
#1 Chevrolet & GMC Full Size Pickups
As the #1 most stolen vehicle in the USA goes the Chevrolet Silverado pickup and its GMC Sierra alternate. As both vehicles are manufactured by General Motors, they share majority of their components.
They are popular with thieves mainly due to how easy they can resell; their high value and high demand for parts making them a prime target. Most suspectable are 2004 and older models mostly due to the fact that they do not feature anti-theft immobilizer key technology making them relatively easy to start with very basic tools.
If you own any of the vehicles on this list you are advised to take precautions such as using steering wheel locks, installing alarms and parking in well-lit areas to reduce the risk of theft. Staying informed about the latest security features and being vigilant can help protect your vehicle from potential thieves.
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