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Every year, the National Insurance Crime Bureau releases a list of the most commonly stolen makes and models of the previous year. The report includes lists of the most frequently stolen new cars, most frequently stolen cars per state, and the most frequently stolen cars overall.
Is your car on one of these lists?
In 2016, the most stolen vehicles nationwide:
1. 1997 Honda Accord
2. 1998 Honda Civic
3. 2006 Ford Pickup (Full size)
4. 2004 Chevrolet Pickup (Full size)
5. 2016 Toyota Camry
6. 2015 Nissan Altima
7. 2001 Dodge Pickup (Full size)
8. 2015 Toyota Corolla
9. 2008 Chevrolet Impala
10. 2000 Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee
The most stolen new vehicles:
1. Toyota Camry
2. Nissan Altima
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Dodge Charger
5. Ford Fusion
6. Hyundai Sonata
7. GMC Sierra
8. Hyundai Elantra
9. Ford Pickup (full size)
10. Ford Transit
While vehicle thefts are down overall since their peak in 1992, largely due to improvements in vehicle anti-theft measures and public awareness, the last two years has since a slight uptick in thefts.
"The increase in vehicle thefts over the past two years should be a reminder that drivers must do their part to protect their vehicles," NICB President and CEO Joe Wehrle said. "Far too many thefts occur because the vehicle is left unlocked and the key or fob is inside. Taking the time to lock it up every time you leave it can save a whole lot of headache and expense in the long run."
A key to preventing car theft is remembering that, generally, car thieves are opportunists. When possible, they'll go for easy targets. They also know tricks car owners like to employ, like leaving an extra key in a magnetic box in the car's wheel well. In other cases, thieves might not make off with your car, but if they see something tempting inside it, they won't be above smashing and grabbing whatever is in sight. Remove your valuables anytime you park your car in public and avoid parking in areas that seem dark or unsafe.
Another common source of vehicle loss? Car accidents. Don't let a bad wreck rob you of a car (or more). Don't text and drive.
