The 2004 full-size Chevrolet pickup is the most stolen vehicle in 2022 with a reported 49,903 thefts, a 3.5% increase from 2021, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). The Chevrolet pickup is followed by the 2006 full-size Ford pickup with 48,175 – also seeing an increase from last year’s 47,999 reported thefts. Both cars retained their most stolen car status from 2021. It is also worth noting that full-size pickup trucks were observed to have the highest theft rate in the US, according to the same report from the NICB.
Similarly, the Honda Civic retained its third rank with 27,113 reported thefts, a 14% decrease from last year’s 31,673. New entries into the most stolen cars list are the Hyundai Sonata with 21,707 thefts and the Hyundai Elantra with 19,602 thefts in 2022.
The Most Stolen Cars by State
Although the reported number of motor vehicle thefts across all states reached more than one million in 2022, some locations have higher theft rates than others. Find out the top stolen car in your state by clicking or tapping the states on the interactive map below.
Click or Tap on the States to Find the Top Stolen Cars Where You Live
America’s Top 10 Stolen Cars
Thieves like certain vehicle models for a number of reasons, such as being easy to steal or having parts that are popular to sell. Owner complacency can also play a big role in vehicle theft, especially if key fobs are left in the car or if you leave your vehicle running in a parking lot or your driveway. Being aware of which car models are most often stolen can help you determine if you should take extra safety precautions with your vehicle. The following are the top 10 most stolen cars in America.
10. Honda CR-V
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 13,832
- Model Most Stolen: 2001
- Starting Price: $25,377
The Honda CR-V remains on our list of most stolen cars in America. From 13,308 thefts recorded in 2021, it now has 13,832 in 2021. The decrease in theft incidents brought it to 10th place from last year's 8th. That said, the 2000 model was the most popular model year among thieves.
9. GMC Full-Size Pickup
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 16,622
- Model Most Stolen: 2005
- Starting Price: $31,669
GMC’s full-size pickup is the first truck on our list with 16,662 theft incidents in 2022 — 1,023 more than 2021 figures. Most thefts still involve the 2005 year model similar to last year. Theft of pickup trucks has been on the rise lately making them the segment with the highest theft rate in 2022.
8. Toyota Camry
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 17,094
- Model Most Stolen: 2021
- Starting Price: $26,283
The Camry is another popular car from Toyota. That, plus its high resale value, may be why most thieves target it. However, theft reports slightly decreased from 17,270 to 17,094. The 2021 model was the most stolen model as it is popular for its high gas mileage and reliability.
7. Kia Optima
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 18,221
- Model Most Stolen: 2015
- Starting Price: $18,417
The Kia Optima lands the 7th spot in the most stolen cars in America with 18,221 reported thefts. Its 2015 model is the most stolen year model. Its popularity among consumers and resulting proliferation made it one of the prime targets for car thieves in 2022.
6. Hyundai Elantra
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 19,602
- Model Most Stolen: 2017
- Starting Price: $19,295
The Hyundai Elantra is the 6th most stolen car in America with 19,602 reported thefts. Its 2017 model happens to be popular among car thieves as it is the most stolen across its US models. Overall, the Elantra is a popular compact sedan known for its looks and price.
5. Hyundai Sonata
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 21,707
- Model Most Stolen: 2013
- Starting Price: $23,172
The Hyundai Sonata, a mid-size sedan, takes the 5th most stolen car spot with 21,707 reported thefts. The Sonata is a popular car and its 2013 model appears to be eyed most by thieves making it the most stolen model year in the NICB’s 2022 list.
4. Honda Accord
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 27,089
- Model Most Stolen: 1997
- Starting Price: $25,036
From 30,274 Honda Accord thefts reported in 2021, numbers were lower by a significant 3,185 in 2022, putting it at 27.089. The 1997 model remains the most popular with thieves. Besides having little-to-no anti-theft technology, various models use its parts — thieves can get a hefty sum for these.
3. Honda Civic
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 27,113
- Model Most Stolen: 2000
- Starting Price: $21,824
Another vehicle with older models with no anti-theft technology is the Honda Civic, so it's unsurprising that its 2000 version remained the most stolen in 2021. That said, thefts of the Civic decreased to 31,673 — lower by 2,471 than the previous year.
2. Ford Full-Size Pickup
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 48,175
- Model Most Stolen: 2006
- Stating Price: $28,433
The full-size Ford Pickup retains its place as the second most stolen car in America. However, this year, slightly more units were stolen than in 2021. Thefts went from 47,999 to 48,175. Its popularity among American drivers makes it attractive to thieves, and most still went for the 2006 version.
1. Chevrolet Full-Size Pickup
Stats
- Number of Thefts: 49,903
- Model Most Stolen: 2004
- Starting Price: $28,728
Chevrolet’s full-size pickup retains its title as the most stolen car in America for 2022. From 49,903 reported thefts in 2021, numbers for this full-size pickup truck increased by 3.5% in 2022, putting it at 49,903 reported thefts. Most incidents still involve the 2004 model. Despite Chevy trucks having anti-theft technology, it seems that thieves can still get their hands on this popular truck.
5 Car Security Tips to Prevent Car Theft
The total number of motor vehicle thefts increased by 8%, going from almost 938,000 in 2020 to over a million in 2021. Knowing how to prevent car theft is essential. After all, increasing your security is better than tracking down a stolen vehicle, especially for vehicle owners in high-risk areas, such as Colorado, Washington D.C., California, New Mexico and Oregon. MoneyGeek shares several strategies so you can protect your investment.
- Practice protecting your car. The simplest thing you can do to keep your car safe is to practice common safety habits, such as keeping your car doors and windows locked when you’re in and out of the vehicle.
- Be mindful of your keys. Losing your keys or leaving them in your car is an open invitation for any thief to take your vehicle. Keep a close eye on them and make sure they’re on your person or near you at all times, even if you’re at home. Consider getting alarms for your keys in order to keep track of their whereabouts on your phone.
- Install safety devices. While practicing good car safety habits is always advisable, you can go the extra mile and install safety devices. You can get vehicle immobilizers, steering wheel locks, GPS tracking devices and more to curb car theft.
- Park in secure areas. While you cannot always control where you can park, you can be selective about where you leave your car. Aim for well-lit areas and places with CCTV cameras or opt for a parking lot that has security.
- Protect your wheels: If a thief can’t steal your car, they can try to steal your wheels instead. If you intend to not use your vehicle for a period of time, it’s a good idea to get lug nut locks or wheel clamps to protect it.
What You Need to Do if Your Car Was Stolen
Having your car stolen can be an overwhelming situation, but knowing what to do immediately after can help make the process of recovery easier. Ideally, you need to report your car as stolen to the authorities and your insurer as soon as possible; the later you report it, the lower your chances of recovering your vehicle.
If you ever happen to be in the unfortunate situation of having your car stolen, maintain a logical, level-head and follow the steps below.
Call the police and file an auto theft report
Once you’ve realized your vehicle has been stolen, contact law enforcement immediately and inform them of the vehicle details, such as the color, license plate, make and model year and any distinct features it may have.
Call your insurer
Contact your auto insurance provider and inform them of the theft. Even if you don’t have a comprehensive policy, notifying them can ensure you’re protected if your stolen vehicle causes property damage or injuries. Depending on your insurer, you may have to report the claim online or by phone. Make sure to have all the necessary details on hand to expedite the process.
Call your leasing or financing company
If your car is being financed or leased, contact them with details of the theft. Have them contact your insurance company directly so that your insurer can pay for the claims.
Inform the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Notifying the DMV of the stolen vehicle is essential as they have a database of stolen vehicles — this is useful in case the thief tries to register it.
Check the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s (NICB) VINCheck
If the NICB or any of its partner agencies and companies find your stolen vehicle, it will be reported on VINCheck. Use your vehicle’s identification number (VIN) to look up your car on this tool regularly in case it gets recovered.
5 Steps to Claim Insurance After Car Theft
You may be covered for theft by your auto insurance policy depending on the circumstances and the type of auto insurance you have. Typically, the best auto insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage, which will cover theft and repair expenses associated with break-in damage.
If your auto insurance policy covers theft, keep the following steps in mind in case you need to file a claim.
File an auto theft report
Most insurance companies require a police report if you want to file an auto theft claim. Contact the police to report the stolen vehicle so they can document everything necessary.
Note the details
Prior to contacting your insurance provider, make sure you have the necessary information ready, such as your Certificate of Title, location of all keys to the vehicle, names and information of those who have access to the vehicle, an accurate description of your vehicle and any personal property stolen from your vehicle.
Contact your insurer
You can report the theft online or via phone by contacting your insurance agent. Make sure to contact them as soon as possible and give them all the information you have compiled.
Contact your leasing company
If you’re leasing or financing your vehicle, contact your company and let them know to discuss the case directly with your insurer.
Inform authorities if your vehicle is recovered
In case your vehicle gets recovered, remember to inform the police and your insurance provider immediately.
Car Theft FAQs
Vehicle theft can be an extremely stressful experience, which is why being aware of vehicle theft statistics can help you protect your ride. In order to promote safer driving and car practices, below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about car theft.
Expert Insights
Knowing how to prevent car theft can help ensure you avoid a stressful situation. MoneyGeek contacted several industry experts and gathered their insight on how to keep your car protected.
- How can car owners of older models keep their cars protected?
- While newer models have new anti-theft technology, what other precautions can owners of modern models take to further protect their vehicles?
Operations Manager at Craig and Landreth Cars
Executive Director at DefensiveDriving.org
Co-Founder at Low Offset
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- Compare Car Insurance Quotes & Rates: Comparing quotes from multiple insurers is the best way to find affordable car insurance. You may see changes in your auto insurance rates over time, even if you have no claims. Learn how to find the best auto insurance for you.
- View the Most Stolen Cars in California, Florida, Colorado and Texas: See how these states compare with the most stolen cars in the country.
About Nathan Paulus
sources
- Insurance Information Institute. "Facts + Statistics: Auto theft." Accessed May 13, 2023.
- National Insurance Crime Bureau. "Vehicle Thefts Continue to Skyrocket in Many Areas of U.S.." Accessed May 13, 2023.
- National Insurance Crime Bureau. "Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles By State 2021." Accessed May 13, 2023.
- National Insurance Crime Bureau. "NICB Releases Annual 'Hot Wheels' Report: America's Top Ten Most Stolen Vehicles." Accessed May 13, 2023.