What are the top 5 most stolen cars?

In the United States, vehicle theft rates are tracked by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), which compiles annual data from law enforcement and insurers to identify the models most commonly stolen. This article presents the latest publicly released top-five models and explains why they tend to be targeted, along with practical steps for owners to reduce risk.

In the most recent NICB release, the five models most frequently reported stolen across the country are Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Pickup, and Toyota Camry.

Context and Data Source

The NICB's annual “Hot Spots” report analyzes stolen-vehicle data submitted by law enforcement and insurers. It reflects reported thefts for a specific calendar year and can vary by region; not all thefts are reported or recovered, and some cases involve professional thieves using specialized tools. The list is a U.S.-based snapshot, refreshed each year with a new calendar-year dataset.

The Top 5 Stolen Models

Before listing the models, note that NICB’s ranking reflects the most-stolen vehicle models in the latest year available in their public data release. The names below align with NICB’s commonly cited classifications.

• Honda Civic


• Honda Accord


• Ford F-Series


• Chevrolet Pickup


• Toyota Camry

These five models have appeared at or near the top of NICB’s annual top-five lists in recent years, driven by broad market prevalence and a mix of theft techniques and vulnerabilities. The exact order can shift year to year as theft patterns and vehicle technology evolve.

Why These Cars Are Targeted

Several factors drive why these models frequently appear on theft lists. They are among the most common vehicles on American roads, which makes them highly desirable for resale or for harvesting parts. Theft vulnerabilities can include older generations with simpler anti-theft systems, as well as certain models whose key fob or remote-start technologies have historically been exploited. Additionally, strong demand for used parts and high resale value for popular models keeps theft incentives high.

Notes on year-to-year variation

Even within the top five, exact rankings can shift from year to year. The NICB’s data can reflect changes in theft techniques, the rollout of newer anti-theft features, and fluctuations in model popularity. In some years, a model like the Toyota Camry or Ford F-Series may rise or fall in the order relative to peers.

Prevention and Protection Tips

Owners can reduce their risk by layering security measures and staying aware of evolving theft methods. The following checklist highlights practical steps applicable to most vehicles in the United States.

• Install and maintain a modern ignition immobilizer or factory anti-theft system; ensure alarms and remote locking are active.


• Use vehicle tracking or telematics devices that can assist law enforcement in locating a stolen vehicle.


• Park in well-lit areas, use a secure garage when available, and consider security cameras or neighborhood watch programs.


• Nev er leave keys or fobs in the vehicle; remove valuables and consider a steering-wheel or gear-shift immobilizer as additional deterrents.


• Consider VIN etching on windows and components; disable remote start if it isn’t needed and keep software up to date to address security recalls.

While no single measure guarantees protection, layering security and staying informed about new vulnerabilities can significantly reduce theft risk.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Is Stolen

If your vehicle is stolen, contact local law enforcement to file a police report as soon as possible and provide the vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate, and any tracking data if available. Notify your insurer promptly and share the police report and tracking information. If the vehicle is recovered, work with law enforcement and your insurer to complete the claim and arrange retrieval.

Summary

Current U.S. data on vehicle thefts show a consistent pattern: the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Pickup, and Toyota Camry are among the most-stolen vehicle models in NICB’s latest public tallies. The rankings reflect a mix of market popularity, demand for parts, and vulnerability factors tied to vehicle technology. Owners can mitigate risk through layered security, proactive monitoring, and timely responses if a theft occurs. As theft patterns evolve with technology and consumer behavior, NICB updates its rankings annually, so staying informed helps drivers and insurers alike.

What is the #1 most stolen car in America?

The #1 most stolen car in America is the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, specifically the 2022-2024 model years. According to research from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), its theft rate is 39 times higher than the national average for all vehicles. Thieves are attracted to the high horsepower and performance of this muscle car.
 

• Chevy Camaro: The standard Camaro is also frequently stolen, with a theft rate 13 times higher than average. 
• Other top vehicles: Other vehicles that frequently appear on lists of most stolen cars include the Acura TLX, GMC Sierra 2500, and various Dodge and Ram models. 

What is the safest car from theft?

Midsize luxury SUVs and electric vehicles have the lowest theft rates. Tesla Model 3 and Model Y have the lowest theft rates overall.

Which car is hardest to steal?

The Hardest Car Brands to Steal (and Why)

• BMW. BMW enhances the security of its cars via encrypted key fobs and motion-sensing alarm system features.
• Audi.
• Mercedes-Benz.
• Subaru.
• Hyundai Sonata (2022 and Newer)

What car is never stolen?

Cars with the lowest theft rates include Tesla models (Model 3, Model Y), Volvos (XC90, XC60), and certain SUVs like the Subaru Outback and GMC Acadia. Vehicles with advanced anti-theft technology, a lower market desirability for thieves, and less common models are less likely to be stolen. Additionally, electric vehicles like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Toyota RAV4 Prime also show low theft rates. 
This video discusses cars that thieves avoid: 59sCar Help CornerYouTube · Mar 31, 2024
Examples of least stolen cars

• Tesla: Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X
• Volvo: XC90, XC60, XC40
• Subaru: Outback, Ascent
• BMW: iX, 3 Series
• Ford: Mustang Mach-E, Explorer
• Toyota: RAV4 Prime, Venza
• Other models: GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Equinox, Lexus RX 350, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Volkswagen ID.4 

Why these cars are less likely to be stolen

• Advanced technology: Many of the least stolen cars, like Teslas, have integrated tracking and remote lockout features. Subaru vehicles are digitally designed, making them difficult to hotwire. 
• Lower demand: Thieves often target models that are common and easy to sell, so less common models or those in unusual colors are less attractive. 
• Higher theft prevention: Features like keyless entry can be a target for theft, but vehicles with advanced security systems are more protected. 

General tips to protect any vehicle

• Park smart: Use well-lit areas, and never leave your car running unattended. 
• Lock up: Always lock your doors and roll up your windows, even for a short time. 
• Hide valuables: Do not leave valuable items visible inside the car. 
• Use anti-theft devices: Consider a steering wheel lock or a kill switch as an additional deterrent.