Car theft is a major concern for vehicle owners across the United States. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) recently updated its list of the most stolen cars in America, and some of the results may surprise you.
Pickup trucks used to dominate the top spot on the list, but sedans from Hyundai and Kia were the top three most stolen cars of 2023. According to the bureau, there was a surge in Hyundai and Kia model thefts due to social media trends demonstrating how to steal specific models.
Nevertheless, getting a steering wheel lock or some other form of security system never hurts if your car ends up on this list or if for nothing else but some peace of mind.
What Vehicle Is Most Often Stolen?
These were the top 10 most stolen cars for 2023, and the number of thefts was recorded according to the NICB report:
- Hyundai Elantra: 48,445 thefts
- Hyundai Sonata: 42,813 thefts
- Kia Optima: 30,204 thefts
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500: 23,721 thefts
- Kia Soul: 21,001 thefts
- Honda Accord: 20,895 thefts
- Honda Civic: 19,858 thefts
- Kia Forte: 16,209 thefts
- Ford F150 Series Pickup: 15,852 thefts
- Kia Sportage: 15,749 thefts
The analysis is based on the 1,020,729 vehicle thefts from 2023 reported to law enforcement and entered into the FBI’s National Crime Information Center.
The Role of the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB)
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) partners with law enforcement and insurance companies to combat insurance fraud and vehicle theft. To reduce car theft, NICB coordinates efforts from all manufacturers to identify frequently stolen vehicles. It also works with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to disrupt criminal networks and help member companies recover stolen vehicles.
The NICB tracks and gathers reports on stolen cars, providing valuable data for vehicle owners and the automotive industry. Its reports help identify patterns in car theft and offer recommendations for preventive measures.
Additionally, it participates in federal, state, and local task forces, fusion centers, and intelligence groups to prevent car theft. It also strategically collaborates with lawmakers and regulators in each of the 50 states to fight insurance fraud and crime trends.
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How Are Stolen Cars Used After Theft?
Cars that have been stolen are often dismantled for parts, which can be sold on the black market. In some cases, the entire vehicle is resold under a fake identity, which makes it challenging to track down. Thieves may also use stolen cars for illegal activities before abandoning them.
The rise in car theft has increased demand for comprehensive insurance covering stolen vehicles. Investing in security systems to prevent theft can spare car owners from the distress and financial burden of losing their vehicles.
What Were the Hardest Cars to Steal in 2023?
While thieves commonly target specific makes and models, others are much harder to steal because of advanced security features. Luxurious cars, like Tesla and BMW, often come with advanced anti-theft systems, such as GPS tracking, immobilizers, and remote shutdown features.
These technologies make it more difficult to access and steal cars. Owners of these cars enjoy lower insurance premiums and greater peace of mind, knowing their cars are better protected from theft.
Do Stolen Cars Affect Insurance Premiums?
If your car is ever stolen, it can significantly affect your insurance premiums. Most insurance providers will raise your rates after a theft, primarily if you reside in a high-theft region. Stolen vehicles are covered by comprehensive insurance, but the increase in car thefts can make these policies more expensive.
To avoid higher premiums, car owners should invest in anti-theft devices and park in secure locations. Practicing active prevention efforts can sometimes result in lower insurance rates.
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How To Prevent Your Car From Being Stolen
With car thefts on the rise, taking preventative measures is more crucial than ever. So here are steps you can take to prevent your car from getting stolen:
- Park in well-lit, secure areas.
- Always lock your doors and windows when you park.
- Use anti-theft devices like GPS trackers, kill switches, and steering wheel locks.
- For additional security, consider installing an immobilizer and alarm system.
- Never leave valuables out of sight; you can keep them in your car’s glove box or trunk.
- Avoid leaving your car running unattended.
- Do not leave your keys in your vehicle.
- You can park in garages or monitored parking lots.
- Check the security features in your car regularly and update any outdated systems.
- If your car is stolen, call law enforcement and your insurance company immediately. Reporting a stolen car as soon as possible increases the chance of recovery.
What To Do if Your Car Is Ever Stolen
According to the NICB report, 34% of stolen vehicles in America are recovered on the same day as the theft and 45% are recovered within two days. Here are steps on what to do if your car gets stolen, as recommended by NICB:
- Report to the police that your vehicle has been stolen immediately. Notifying law enforcement of the theft also gives you a record to offer to your insurer.
- Notify your insurer that your car was stolen. Insurance companies often ask for a police report before processing a claim.
- Be prepared to provide important vehicle information: You will be required to provide the details of the make/model of the vehicle, color, license plate number, and the vehicle’s VIN. The VIN can be found on your insurance policy documentation or on the Proof of Insurance card. There are three processes for filing a stolen vehicle report to your insurer: over the phone, online, or even directly to your insurance agent.
Ultimately, prevention is vital. Stay informed, follow recommendations from organizations like the NICB, and ensure you take all reasonable precautions to keep your car safe from thieves.
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