What Cars Are Stolen the Most?
Thieves do have a distinct taste when it comes to stealing vehicles. In the US, there is a list that lists the most stolen cars. Here is the list of the most stolen cars in the US. Own one of these? Make sure you add extra safety to avoid being stolen.
Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra is on top of the list with 31,712 reported thefts. This compact-sized sedan has been a favorite among car thieves for the past few years because many models manufactured before 2022 lacked engine immobilizers, which made them easier to steal.
The Elantra is widely available also makes it a good target for thieves looking to dismantle and sell parts.
Hyundai Sonata
The Hyundai Sonata, unfortunately, followed its sibling's footsteps to become the second most stolen car in the US, with over than 26,000 cases of stolen vehicles per year. Like the Elantra, the Sonata has a weak key-start ignition system. A lot of viral videos show how to hack into the key-start ignition system, which makes it easier for thieves to target and steal the Sonata.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a valuable target for thieves, especially in rural or urban areas where pickup trucks are commonly used rather than a standard car. With 21,666 thefts reported in 2024, due to Silverado's popularity among people living in urban areas and higher spare parts resale value.
Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is known for its luxury design, top-notch amenities, and fuel efficiency. This car is also on the top list of stolen vehicles, with 18,539 theft cases happening annually. Older Accord models are weak due to an outdated security system, and their spare parts are highly priced on the black market due to interchangeable parts between Honda's vehicles, meaning that Accord's parts can be used in other Honda vehicles. Thieves often take apart the components and sell them on the black market or illegal market in the United States.
KIA Optima
The fifth position of the top stolen vehicle is the Kia Optima, with 17,493 theft cases happening in a year. The KIA Optima, especially from the 2011 to 2021 models, is often targeted to be stolen due to a weak design of its engine immobilizers, meaning that the car can be started without a key or key FOB.
Before you purchase a vehicle, make sure you get a car with a proper security system to enhance the safety of your car so it does not get stolen easily. On top of that, check the stolen status to make sure you are not buying a stolen car, as it could lead to legal consequences later.