Vehicle Thefts Show a Decline, Yet Certain Models Remain Preferred Targets

Introduction to the Trend

After years of witnessing a surge in vehicle thefts, there’s been a notable shift in this trend, although certain models continue to be favored by thieves. The number of stolen cars reported in 2024 saw a substantial decrease, breaking the pattern of year-after-year increases that began in 2020.

The Current State of Vehicle Thefts

About 850,700 vehicles were stolen in the U.S. last year, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). This figure represents a drop from the more than 1 million stolen vehicles in 2023. Despite this overall decline, some vehicles are still being targeted fairly often by thieves. The NICB reports that two Hyundai models – the Elantra and Sonata – were still the most targeted vehicles for theft last year, maintaining their positions from 2023.

The Impact of Social Media on Vehicle Thefts

Thefts of Hyundai and Kia cars skyrocketed in 2020, following the spread of videos on TikTok that showed how to exploit the cars’ vulnerabilities and steal them. Thieves took advantage of the fact that these cars lacked engine immobilizers, a standard piece of anti-theft technology.

Efforts to Combat Vehicle Thefts

However, things have been improving for owners of these affected models. The automakers have been offering anti-theft software upgrades to vehicle owners, and the number of Hyundais and Kias stolen in 2024 dropped nationwide.

Most Commonly Stolen Vehicles in 2024

The most commonly stolen vehicles in 2024, according to the NICB, were:

(National vehicle theft data from the NICB)

Regional Variations in Vehicle Theft Rates

It’s not just the type of vehicle you drive, but also where you live that affects how likely you are to be targeted by car thieves. Washington, D.C., California, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada have the highest vehicle theft rates.

Conclusion

While the decrease in vehicle thefts is a welcome trend, it’s crucial for car owners, especially those with models frequently targeted by thieves, to remain vigilant. Taking preventive measures such as using anti-theft devices and being mindful of where you park your vehicle can significantly reduce the risk of theft.

FAQs

• Q: Which vehicles were the most stolen in 2024?
  A: The Hyundai Elantra and Hyundai Sonata were the most targeted vehicles for theft in 2024, followed by other models like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Honda Accord.
• Q: Why did Hyundai and Kia cars experience a surge in thefts?
  A: The surge was largely due to videos shared on social media platforms like TikTok that showed how to steal these cars by exploiting their lack of engine immobilizers.
• Q: Are there any efforts to combat vehicle thefts?
  A: Yes, automakers have been offering anti-theft software upgrades to vehicle owners, which has contributed to a decrease in thefts of certain models.
• Q: Where are vehicle theft rates the highest?
  A: Washington, D.C., California, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada have the highest vehicle theft rates in the U.S.