The Most Commonly Stolen Cars in the U.S.

Curious about the most stolen car in America?

Car theft remains a serious concern in the United States, affecting vehicle owners nationwide. Criminals target specific models due to ease of theft, high resale value, and demand for spare parts. Below, we provide an in-depth analysis of the most frequently stolen vehicles, the reasons they are targeted, and how owners can protect their cars from theft.

Listed below are the most commonly stolen makes and models, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), based on the latest data for the 2023 report as of 2025.

Table of Contents

A hacker bypassing a car’s security system with a tablet, illustrated in watercolor

A cybercriminal in a hoodie using a tablet to hack a stolen car’s security system.

Most Stolen Cars in the U.S.

The list of most stolen vehicles changes annually based on crime trends, technology improvements, and law enforcement efforts. However, these models consistently rank among the most targeted by car thieves:

1. Chevrolet Silverado

  • The full-size pickup truck is a frequent target due to its high resale value and popularity among drivers.
  • Older models lack modern anti-theft features, making them vulnerable.
  • Parts like catalytic converters and tailgates are easy to steal and resell.

2. Ford F-Series (F-150, F-250, F-350)

  • The best-selling truck in America also ranks among the most stolen.
  • Older models are easier to hotwire, while newer ones have vulnerabilities in keyless entry systems.
  • Demand for parts, especially in secondary markets, makes them attractive to criminals.

3. Honda Civic

  • Frequently stolen due to widespread availability and high resale value.
  • Older models, particularly those from the early 2000s, are easy to steal without sophisticated tools.
  • Popular among thieves dismantling vehicles for resale.

4. Honda Accord

  • Frequently stolen due to widespread availability and high resale value.
  • Older models, particularly those from the early 2000s, are easy to steal without sophisticated tools.
  • Popular among thieves dismantling vehicles for resale.

5. Toyota Camry

  • One of America’s best-selling sedans, making it a prime target.
  • Demand for Toyota parts in overseas black markets contributes to theft rates.
  • Vulnerability in older keyless entry systems makes some models easier to steal.

6. Nissan Altima

  • A common choice among car thieves due to widespread ownership and high resale potential.
  • Certain model years have security flaws in ignition and keyless entry.
  • Frequently targeted for catalytic converter theft.

7. GMC Sierra

  • Similar to the Chevrolet Silverado in demand and vulnerability.
  • High-value parts like truck beds, catalytic converters, and electronics are commonly stolen.
  • Often stolen for use in further criminal activities due to power and durability.

8. Dodge Ram

  • Popular among thieves for resale and parts.
  • Vulnerable key fob relay attacks allow criminals to steal newer models.
  • Demand in construction and farming industries makes it a valuable black-market vehicle.

9. Jeep Grand Cherokee

  • High-end trims are targeted for their luxury and resale value.
  • Older models lack robust security features, making them easier to steal.
  • Frequently targeted for export to international black markets.

10. Hyundai Elantra and Kia Optima

  • Recently surged in thefts due to vulnerabilities in ignition design.
  • The “Kia Boyz” trend on social media exposed a method of stealing certain models with minimal effort.
  • Manufacturers have since implemented security updates, but many vehicles remain at risk.

Why Are These Vehicles Targeted?

Several key factors contribute to vehicle theft trends:

  • High Resale Value: Thieves steal vehicles to resell them intact or in parts.
  • Lack of Anti-Theft Features: Older models often lack immobilizers, making them easier to hotwire.
  • Interchangeable Parts: Vehicles with parts that fit multiple models are prime targets.
  • Demand in Black Markets: Some vehicles are stolen for export or sale in illegal markets.
  • Weak Keyless Entry Systems: Relay attacks on keyless fobs have led to a rise in thefts of modern vehicles.

How to Protect Your Car from Theft

1. Use Anti-Theft Devices

  • Steering wheel locks, brake locks, and gear shift locks create visible deterrents.
  • Immobilizers and kill switches prevent unauthorized ignition access.
  • GPS trackers help locate stolen vehicles quickly.

2. Park Strategically

  • Always park in well-lit areas with surveillance cameras.
  • Use secure garages when possible.
  • Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight inside the vehicle.

3. Secure Your Key Fob

  • Store key fobs in signal-blocking pouches to prevent relay attacks.
  • Disable keyless entry features if they are not needed.
  • Never leave spare keys inside the vehicle.

4. Invest in a Car Alarm System

  • Modern alarms with motion detection and sirens can deter thieves.
  • Some systems notify owners via mobile apps when a theft attempt is detected.

5. Stay Informed

  • Regularly check local car theft reports to stay aware of trends.
  • Follow manufacturer updates and recall notices for security vulnerabilities and software fixes.
  • Report suspicious activities to local authorities.

Car Theft Statistics and Trends

Car theft trends evolve over time based on criminal tactics and law enforcement responses. Below is a simplified representation of vehicle theft statistics using a diagram:

A [Car Thefts in the U.S.] –> Most Commonly Stolen Vehicles | B {Pickup Trucks & Sedans}
B –>C [Chevrolet Silverado]
B –>D [Ford F-Series]
B –>E [Honda Civic]
B –>F [Honda Accord]
B –>G [Toyota Camry]
B –>H [Nissan Altima]
B –>I [GMC Sierra]
B –>J [Dodge Ram]
B –>K [Jeep Grand Cherokee]
B –>L [Hyundai & Kia Models]

Where Do Recovered Theft Vehicles Go?

When an insurance company takes ownership of a vehicle due to incidents such as theft, it typically sells the recovered vehicle at an insurance auction after settling the claim and processing the necessary paperwork. Online auction houses, such as insurance auctions, have largely replaced traditional police and public auto auctions.

Many recovered theft vehicles can serve as valuable inventory for personal use, resale profit, exports, business purposes, or as project cars and parts—all at competitive prices.

Many buyers purchase such vehicles through insurance auctions, dealer-only auctions, or via RideSafely—without needing a dealer license. Explore the diverse range of vehicles available at RideSafely.

If you are considering buying a car at an auction, you can take advantage of wholesale prices without needing a dealer license. Buy cars at wholesale auctions: No dealer license is required.

Additionally, salvage car auctions provide an excellent opportunity to earn profits while gaining valuable experience in the automotive industry. Salvage car auctions – Turn profits while you learn.

For those interested in impounded vehicles, a valuable resource is available: Guide to finding and buying impounded cars.

Conclusion

Vehicle theft remains a persistent issue, but by understanding which cars are most at risk and taking proactive security measures, owners can significantly reduce their chances of becoming victims.

FAQs About Car Theft and Recovery Auctions

The most stolen cars include the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Hyundai & Kia models.

Thieves prefer vehicles with high resale value, interchangeable parts, and weaker security systems. Older models without immobilizers or keyless security features are particularly vulnerable.

Common methods include hotwiring older models, using relay attacks on keyless entry systems, stealing catalytic converters, and exploiting weak security vulnerabilities in certain vehicles.

You can protect your car by parking in well-lit areas, using anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks, installing a car alarm or GPS tracker, and securing your key fob from relay attacks.

Many recovered stolen vehicles are sold through insurance auto auctions, such as those available on RideSafely. These auctions provide buyers with opportunities to purchase vehicles at competitive prices.

Yes, recovered theft vehicles are often resold through insurance and salvage car auctions. Buyers should always check the vehicle history and title status before purchasing.

Online auto auctions, like RideSafely, offer a wide range of recovered theft vehicles at competitive prices. Buyers can explore listings and bid on cars without needing a dealer license.
Vehicle theft remains a persistent issue, but by understanding which cars are most at risk and taking proactive security measures, owners can significantly reduce their chances of becoming victims.

Buy Recovered Theft Vehicles at Auction

Looking for recovered theft vehicles at auction? RideSafely offers a vast selection of used and theft-recovered vehicles nationwide. Easily filter by make, model, condition, and budget to secure the best deals at wholesale prices. Don’t miss out—find your ideal vehicle today!

Start Your Search

What People Are Saying

You might also like

Damaged auction car with common vehicle damage codes for buyers

How to Decode Auction Damage Codes

/
0 Comments
Read more

Frequently Asked Questions

All/Buyer Services/Documentation/General/Payment/Process/Shipment/Vehicle
0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

© 2003 - 2026 RideSafely.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved. RideSafely® is a trademark of RideSafely.com, Inc. All logos, trademarks, and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Operated by RideSafely.com.

Need Help? Ask a Question

You will be promptly notified via email by RideSafely when your Knowledgebase inquiry is addressed or updated.

+ = Verify Human or Spambot ?