Vehicle theft remains a significant concern across the United States, and recent data reveals a shift in the types of vehicles most targeted by thieves. According to a new report from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), sedans, particularly Kia and Hyundai models, have surged to the top of the list of most stolen vehicles in 2023, displacing the long-standing dominance of full-size pickup trucks. This change highlights evolving theft trends and the importance of staying informed about What Cars Are Most Stolen to protect your property.
Key Findings from the NICB Report on Most Stolen Cars
The NICB’s latest findings indicate a notable trend: Kia and Hyundai vehicles accounted for six of the top ten spots on the list of most stolen vehicles in 2023, including the top three. Specifically, the Hyundai Elantra topped the list with 48,445 thefts, followed by the Hyundai Sonata (42,813) and the Kia Optima (30,204). This surge in thefts of these models is largely attributed to social media trends that publicized methods for easily stealing these vehicles.
Top 5 most stolen vehicles in the USA in 2023, highlighting the dominance of Hyundai and Kia models.
While sedans from Kia and Hyundai are now leading the pack, traditional targets like full-size pickup trucks and other popular mid-size cars remain high on the list. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Honda Accord, Honda Civic, and Ford F150 Series Pickup are also among the top 10 most stolen vehicles, demonstrating that a variety of makes and models are at risk.
Despite the high volume of thefts, the report offers a silver lining: over 85 percent of stolen passenger vehicles are recovered. Impressively, 34 percent of these vehicles are recovered within just one day of being reported stolen, emphasizing the effectiveness of prompt reporting and law enforcement efforts.
NICB President and CEO David J. Glawe emphasized the ongoing threat of vehicle theft, stating, “These rankings highlight the persistent threat of vehicle theft across the country. NICB works with law enforcement agencies and industry partners to deploy advanced technologies and strategies to combat vehicle theft from organized criminal networks and individuals. Even as we work to deter crime, it is crucial for owners to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect their vehicles.”
The Rise of Kia and Hyundai Thefts: Social Media’s Influence
A significant factor contributing to the prominence of Kia and Hyundai models on the most stolen cars list is the proliferation of social media content demonstrating how to steal these vehicles. These videos and posts often highlight vulnerabilities in certain older models that lack engine immobilizers, making them easier to steal using simple methods. This widespread information has unfortunately empowered thieves and led to a spike in thefts targeting these specific makes.
Full List: National Top 10 Vehicle Makes/Models Stolen in 2023
For a comprehensive understanding of what cars are most stolen, here is the complete list of the top 10 vehicle makes and models stolen in the United States in 2023, according to the NICB report:
| Rank | Make/Model | 2023 Thefts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hyundai Elantra | 48,445 |
| 2 | Hyundai Sonata | 42,813 |
| 3 | Kia Optima | 30,204 |
| 4 | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | 23,721 |
| 5 | Kia Soul | 21,001 |
| 6 | Honda Accord | 20,895 |
| 7 | Honda Civic | 19,858 |
| 8 | Kia Forte | 16,209 |
| 9 | Ford F150 Series Pickup | 15,852 |
| 10 | Kia Sportage | 15,749 |
2023 Vehicle Theft Key Takeaways
Key takeaways from the NICB report on vehicle thefts in 2023, including the rise of sedan thefts and overall recovery rates.
Ongoing Vehicle Theft Trends in the U.S.
The NICB report also indicates that the surge in vehicle theft rates that began during the pandemic continues. Nationwide, vehicle theft claims saw a further increase of 1 percent from 2022 to 2023, demonstrating that vehicle theft remains a persistent and evolving challenge.
In response to these trends, the NICB is actively collaborating with vehicle manufacturers and law enforcement agencies to combat vehicle theft. These efforts include identifying frequently stolen vehicles, disrupting criminal networks, and working with lawmakers to strengthen anti-theft measures.
Protecting Your Vehicle: Prevention Tips
To minimize your risk of vehicle theft, the NICB recommends following these preventative measures:
- Park in well-lit areas: Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in visible and well-lit locations.
- Lock your vehicle: Always close and lock all windows and doors when you park, even for short periods.
- Hide valuables: Keep valuables out of sight, ideally in the glove box or trunk.
- Never leave keys in the vehicle: This is a primary invitation for theft.
- Avoid leaving your vehicle running unattended: Even for a moment, leaving a running car unattended makes it an easy target.
What to Do If Your Car Is Stolen
If your vehicle is stolen, immediate action is crucial. Follow these steps:
- Report to the police immediately: Contact your local law enforcement to file a stolen vehicle report. Prompt reporting significantly increases the chance of recovery.
- Report to your insurer: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after reporting to the police. Insurers typically require a police report to process a claim.
- Provide vehicle information: Be ready to provide your vehicle’s make, model, color, license plate number, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can find your VIN on your insurance documents or proof of insurance card.
By understanding what cars are most stolen and taking proactive steps, vehicle owners can reduce their risk and contribute to combating vehicle theft. Staying informed and vigilant are key to protecting your vehicle in today’s environment.
