Car theft is a big problem in the United States. In 2019, there were an estimated 721,885 motor vehicle thefts nationwide, which is a 1.4% decrease from 2018. However, this still amounts to a vehicle being stolen every 41 seconds. While this number has decreased over the years, it's still relatively high. So, which cars are being stolen the most? Here we will count down what are the 10 most stolen cars in the US.
Vehicle Theft In The United States
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the Honda Civic was the most stolen vehicle in the United States in 2016. There were 7,508 reported thefts of Honda Civics that year, which was an 8 percent increase from the year before. The Toyota Camry was the second most stolen vehicle, with 6,377 reported thefts. The NICB notes that cars are typically stolen for their parts or to be resold.
The most popular models among car thieves were not necessarily the most expensive or luxurious cars on the market. Many of the most commonly stolen vehicles are older models that may not have sophisticated security features. This is likely because these vehicles are easier to steal and sell for parts. The NICB recommends that drivers take precautions to protect their cars from theft, such as parking in well-lit areas and using a steering wheel lock.
Before we jump into the list, however, we want to clarify something for you. You will see that a lot of these vehicles are older and that is because the black-market demand for parts for that vehicle is so high, that they are still sought after by thieves. Joyriders look for something to steal as a matter of convenience. Professional thieves, on the other hand, have a systematic approach to what make and model of vehicle they target, which is why these 10 vehicles are considered the most stolen vehicles in the United States in 2021, regardless of what year they were manufactured.
#10 - 12th Generation Toyota Corolla (2019-2022 series models)
The 12th generation of the Toyota Corolla is the tenth most stolen car in the United States. This compact sedan is popular among both young drivers and those looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient vehicle. While the Corolla has many admirable qualities, its popularity makes it a target for thieves. In addition to being one of the most stolen cars in the US, the Corolla is also one of the most frequently broken into vehicles. If you own a Corolla, be sure to take extra care when parking and locking your car.
#9 – KL Jeep Cherokee (2014-2022 model series) / WK2 Grand Cherokee (2011-2022 model series)
When it comes to car thefts, certain models seem to be more popular with thieves than others. Since 2018, the Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee were among the most popular stolen cars in the United States. There are a number of reasons why these vehicles may be targeted by thieves. For one, they are relatively easy to steal due to their design. Additionally, Jeeps are often equipped with valuable items such as GPS systems and stereo systems, which can make them attractive targets for thieves looking to make a quick profit.
#8 - 1st Generation Honda CR-V (1997-2001 model series)
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, the 2000 Honda CR-V was the ninth most stolen car in the United States. Honda's are notorious for being easy to steal, and the CR-V is no exception. The simple design of the vehicle makes it easy for thieves to break into and hotwire, which is why they're such a popular target. To protect your CR-V from being stolen, keep it locked at all times and park in well-lit areas. You may also consider investing in a security system or GPS tracker.
#7 - 6th Generation Nissan Altima (2019-2023 model series)
The 6th generation of Nissan Altima is one of the most popular cars in the US and one of the most stolen cars in the US. There are a few reasons for this. First, the Altima is a very popular car, and many of them are on the road. Second, the Altima is a very desirable car, and it's a stylish car with many features that people want. And third, the Altima is an easy car to steal, not a difficult car to break into, and easy to drive away.
If you have a Nissan Altima from the 2019-2023 model years, you need to be extra careful about where you park it and how you secure it. Ensure you have good anti-theft devices installed and use them every time you leave your car unattended.
#6 - 2nd Generation GMC full-size pick-up (1999-2006 model series)
The 2nd-generation of GMC full-size pick-up is the sixth most stolen car in the United States, likely due to its popularity and high resale value. Its parts are good for many model years that are still on the road. If you own a GMC full-size pick-up, be sure to keep it in a secure location and take extra precautions to deter thieves.
#5 - 6th Generation Toyota Camry (2007-2011 model series)
The 6th generation of Toyota Camry has been one of the most popular cars in America for many years, making it a popular target for thieves. The Camry is typically stolen for its parts, which can be used to repair other cars or sold for profit. If you own a Camry, keep it in a well-lit and secure area, and consider installing an anti-theft device.
#4 - 5th Generation Honda Accord (1993-1997 model series)
The 5th generation of Honda Accord, which was made from 1993-1997, was the most stolen car in America, and thieves made off with thousands of these vehicles. Its easily interchangeable parts make it an ideal grab for thieves.
#3 - 2nd Generation Honda Civic (1996-2000 model series)
The 2nd generation of Honda Civic was the third most stolen car in the US in 2021. The Civic is a popular car for thieves because it is easy to hotwire and has an extensive aftermarket for stolen parts. The most common type of theft for the Civic is "unlawful entry," which means the thief did not use force to enter the car.
To prevent your Civic from being stolen, park it in a well-lit area and use a steering wheel lock or alarm system. You could also engrave your VIN on all major parts of your car, which will deter thieves from selling them as stolen goods.
#2 - 11th Generation Ford full-size pick-up (2004-2008 model series)
The second most stolen car in the United States was the 11th generation of Ford full-size pickup. This is not surprising, as these vehicles are often left unlocked and unsecured, making them easy targets for thieves. There were thousands of reported thefts of this model, and the average loss per vehicle was over $6,000. The best way to protect your Ford full-size pick-up from theft is to park it in a garage or other secure location, ensuring all doors and windows are locked when you leave it unattended.
#1 - 7th Generation Chevrolet full-size pick-up (1997-2007 model series)
The 7th generation of Chevrolet full-size pick-up was the most stolen car in the US. The Chevy full-size pick-up is a popular target for thieves due to its high resale value and ease of access. This vehicle is often stolen for its parts or used as a getaway car. To protect your Chevrolet full-size pick-up from theft, park in well-lit areas, use a steering wheel lock, and consider installing an anti-theft device.
Bonus Question For Extra Credit!
GoodCar believes that arming you with the proper information can help you make a better decision when it comes to buying a new or used car. That is why we shared this information with you, but now comes the bonus question, which of the cars on this list (if any) do you think are also on the list of most carjacked cars in the US?
