Are Subaru cars stolen a lot?
In short, Subaru cars are not among the most stolen vehicles in the United States, and the brand generally records a lower theft rate than many other mainstream automakers.
The question matters because vehicle-theft patterns shift with market demand, security technology, and regional crime trends. This article reviews the latest data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), explains how risk varies by model year and geography, and offers practical steps Subaru owners can take to reduce vulnerability.
What the data shows
According to NICB’s latest annual Stolen Vehicle Statistics by Brand, Subaru’s theft risk sits well below the brands most frequently stolen. The brands that consistently show higher theft rates in recent years include Honda, Toyota, Ford, Nissan, Chevrolet, and BMW, while Subaru generally ranks lower in both nationwide totals and per-vehicle risk. It’s important to note that theft rates can fluctuate by year and region, and individual models may attract more attention than others due to demand for parts or resale value.
Here is a snapshot of brand-level trends from NICB’s current data to provide context for Subaru’s standing.
- Honda
- Toyota
- Ford
- Nissan
- Chevrolet
- BMW
- Hyundai
- Kia
- Mitsubishi
Although Subaru is not among the top theft performers, regional differences exist and a model’s age or features can influence risk. Owners should use this information as a guide rather than a guarantee of safety.
Subaru in context
Subaru’s share of the U.S. market is smaller than the volume brands that frequently top theft lists, which commonly include Honda, Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet. However, theft can still occur for any vehicle, especially in areas with higher crime rates or where specific models have attractive parts or resale value. In many years, Subaru remains outside the list of the most-stolen brands, but that does not mean vulnerability doesn’t exist—owners should stay vigilant and use security practices that suit their region and model.
Model considerations
Beyond brand data, theft risk can vary by model year and the presence (or absence) of advanced immobilizers and security features. If you own an older Subaru model that predates newer anti-theft technologies, it may be relatively more attractive to thieves than newer models with modern immobilizers. Always check your specific model’s security features and keep up with any manufacturer-recommended security updates.
How to protect your Subaru
Proactive steps can meaningfully reduce the likelihood of theft, whether you’re in a high-crime area or a quieter neighborhood. The following list highlights practical, widely recommended measures.
- Lock doors and set the factory alarm whenever you park, even for short errands.
- Enable any available immobilizer or anti-theft system on your Subaru and keep it activated.
- Park in a well-lit, secure location; use a garage when possible.
- Use a visible anti-theft device (steering wheel lock, wheel clamp, or aftermarket immobilizer) as an added deterrent.
- Install a GPS tracking device or subscribe to a vehicle recovery service that works with police and insurers.
- Consider VIN etching on glass and doors to deter theft for parts and to aid recovery if stolen.
- Avoid leaving valuables in sight inside the vehicle; remove charging cables, bags, and electronics from view.
- For keyless-entry models, use a Faraday pouch or other signal-blocking method to prevent relay theft of fobs kept inside your home or near doors.
- Keep software and security system firmware up to date; consult your dealer about security updates for your model.
- Be mindful of neighbors’ and local police advisories about theft patterns and hotspots in your area.
Systems and devices vary by model year, so tailor these steps to your specific Subaru. Combine manufacturer protections with common-sense habits for best results.
Summary
Subaru vehicles are not typically among the most stolen in the United States, and the brand’s theft rate is generally lower than the top offenders on NICB’s radar. Theft risk varies by year, model, and region, so owners should stay informed about local patterns and leverage both built-in security features and proven anti-theft practices. By combining smart parking, secure storage of keys, and additional deterrents, Subaru owners can further reduce the chance of theft while continuing to enjoy their vehicles.
For readers seeking the latest numbers, consult the NICB’s most recent Stolen Vehicle Statistics by Brand and regional crime advisories, and talk with your local Subaru dealer about model-specific security options and updates.
