What are the most stolen cars in the USA? And what are the carmakers doing about it?
Auto theft is rising in the United States, with a 7% increase from last year, according to a report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). The report also found the most stolen cars in the USA. These vehicles are much more likely to be stolen. For the first time since 2008, car theft in the United States has surpassed 1 million vehicles. This staggering statistic resulted in an alarming $8.9 billion loss for vehicle owners across America.
California and Texas faced the highest thefts, followed by Florida and Georgia. Meanwhile, Illinois and Washington had the most significant year-over-year increases compared to other states.
The Most Stolen Cars In The USA
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) recently released its annual Hot Wheels Report for 2022, revealing the most stolen cars in the USA. Unsurprisingly, Chevrolet and Ford pickups topped the most frequently stolen vehicles list. Coming in at third and fourth place are Honda Civic and Accord models, respectively. Rounding out the top five is the Toyota Camry.
These five vehicles alone accounted for over half of all vehicle thefts in 2022. This data is concerning, as it suggests a higher theft rate among these popular models than other makes and models on the road today.
The NICB report also provides insight into where vehicle thefts occur most often in the United States. California tops the list with over 35 thousand reported thefts in 2019.
What Are These Carmakers Doing To Prevent Car Theft
Fortunately, these carmakers are taking steps to protect their vehicles from theft. Ford and Chevrolet have both introduced comprehensive anti-theft systems in recent years. In addition, models like the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado now have GPS tracking systems and remote vehicle disabling technology.
Honda has also implemented security measures in its models. Keyless entry and engine immobilizers are standard features on most Honda cars today, making them more difficult for potential thieves to access or disable.
Toyota is working to increase the security of its vehicles by introducing an advanced key system that includes several sensors that can detect attempts at unauthorized entry. The company also offers a subscription service that provides real-time tracking and theft alerts to owners of its vehicles.
It is encouraging to see manufacturers taking steps to protect their vehicles from theft, as it can help reduce the rate of car thefts in the US. Drivers must take the necessary precautions when parking and storing their cars, such as locking the doors and removing valuables. These simple measures can go a long way in preventing theft.
What Can Car Owners Do To Prevent Theft
Car owners can take a few simple steps to reduce their risk of becoming victims of car theft. The experts at the NICB recommend that drivers always lock their vehicles and park in well-lit, apparent areas. It is also essential to not leave valuables or other items inside the car where potential thieves could see them.
Additionally, it is recommended that all car owners have an anti-theft device installed in their cars. These devices alert the owner if someone attempts to tamper with the vehicle, providing an extra level of security against theft.
Carmakers are taking steps to make their vehicles more secure against theft. Still, it is up to individual drivers to take the necessary precautions to protect their cars. Taking commonsense measures and investing in an anti-theft device can deter would-be thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle.