Car theft is a persistent concern for many vehicle owners, with certain models being more susceptible to theft than others. If you own one of the most stolen cars in America, it's essential to understand how this can impact your insurance premiums and coverage options.
» Own a theft-prone car? Compare our best car insurance providers with specialized theft coverage for 2025.
Key Takeaways
Hyundai and Kia models dominate the list of most stolen cars in America, holding six of the top ten spots.
Car theft can lead to higher insurance premiums for high-risk vehicles.
Comprehensive coverage is critical to safeguard against theft-related losses.
How Car Theft Can Impact Your Insurance
High-Risk Vehicles Lead to Higher Premiums
Car theft directly influences insurance premiums, particularly for owners of high-risk vehicles. Insurers assess risk based on factors like theft rates and repair costs. If your car is on the list of most stolen cars in America, you may face higher premiums because insurers anticipate a greater likelihood of claims.
Comprehensive Coverage is Costly
Vehicle theft can result in significant financial losses if you don't have comprehensive coverage. This type of insurance protects against theft but often comes at a higher cost for frequently stolen vehicles.
To find the right car insurance that balances protection and affordability, compare multiple quotes from different providers, ask specifically about theft coverage details, and inquire about potential discounts for security features.
Theft Impacts More Than Just Replacement Costs
The financial impact of car theft extends beyond replacing your vehicle. Owners may also face expenses related to temporary transportation, increased premiums after filing claims, and potential deductibles.
10 Cars with the Highest Theft Rates
1. Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra tops the list with 48,445 reported thefts in 2023. Its affordability and widespread availability make it a common target for thieves. Older models, particularly those without advanced anti-theft features, are especially vulnerable.
2. Hyundai Sonata
The Hyundai Sonata ranks second with 42,813 thefts. Known for its sleek design and reliability, it’s also targeted due to vulnerabilities in older models that lack engine immobilizers.
3. Kia Optima
The Kia Optima has a reported 30,204 vehicles stolen. It experienced a sharp rise in thefts due to its popularity and ease of access for thieves exploiting older models’ security flaws.
4. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has a reported 23,721 cars stolen. This full-size pickup remains a favorite among thieves for its durability and high resale value. Its versatility makes it both a practical vehicle and an appealing target.
5. Kia Soul
The Kia Soul has a reported 21,001 vehicles stolen in 2024. Its unique design and affordability contribute to its popularity—and its vulnerability to theft. Many older models lack modern anti-theft technology.
6. Honda Accord
With 20,895 cars stolen, the Honda Accord has long been a target for thieves due to its high demand for parts on the black market. Older models without immobilizers are particularly at risk.
7. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic remains a frequent target thanks to its popularity and availability, with a reported 19,858 vehicles stolen. Thieves often target older models that lack advanced security features.
8. Kia Forte
This compact sedan is known for its affordability and fuel efficiency, but it has become increasingly targeted due to a lack of robust anti-theft measures in older versions. It has a reported 16,209 theft rate.
9. Ford F-150 Series Pickup
There have been a reported 15,852 stolen Ford F-150 Series Pickups. As one of America’s best-selling trucks, it’s highly sought after by thieves for its versatility and high resale value.
10. Kia Sportage
With 15,749 vehicles stolen, the Kia Sportage rounds out the list with its practicality and stylish design, making it both a popular choice for buyers and an attractive target for thieves.
Why These Cars Top America's Most Stolen List
Several factors contribute to why these vehicles dominate the list of most stolen cars in America:
- The "Kia Challenge" social media effect: Widespread TikTok videos exposing security flaws in 2011-2021 Hyundai and Kia models without push-button ignitions caused theft rates to skyrocket by over 200% in many cities. This prompted class-action lawsuits and manufacturer security updates.
- Lack of anti-theft technology: Many older models lack features like engine immobilizers, advanced alarm systems, or tracking capabilities, making them easier targets.
- Popularity and parts value: High-demand vehicles like Hondas are often stolen for their parts, which fetch high prices on the black market.
» Curious about safer, more affordable options? Discover the 10 safest cars with the lowest insurance rates in 2025.
Where Most Cars Are Stolen in America
According to data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), car theft trends vary significantly across regions, with clear patterns in both volume and rate:
Top 10 States by Vehicle Theft Volume (2023)
| State | Thefts in 2023 |
|---|---|
| California | 208,668 |
| Texas | 115,013 |
| Florida | 46,213 |
| Washington | 43,160 |
| Illinois | 41,528 |
| Colorado | 34,068 |
| New York | 32,715 |
| Ohio | 31,647 |
| Georgia | 28,171 |
| Missouri | 27,279 |
California tops the list with over 208,000 vehicles stolen in 2023, while the Washington DC area experienced a concerning 52% increase compared to 2022.
Thieves also target different vehicles depending on location—pickup trucks are more likely to be stolen in rural areas, while urban areas see different models being targeted.
Insurance Implications for America's Most Stolen Cars
Owning one of America's most frequently stolen vehicles can significantly impact your insurance costs and coverage needs:
Higher premium costs: Insurers charge 10-15% more for comprehensive coverage on high-theft models like the Honda Civic, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia Optima.
Comprehensive coverage is essential: This protection covers your vehicle's replacement value (minus deductible) if stolen and repairs for attempted theft damage.
Location-based rate adjustments: Living in urban areas with higher theft rates can compound premium increases for these models.
What to Do if Your Car is Stolen
- File a police report immediately: Provide your VIN, license plate number, and detailed vehicle description. Write down your VIN number or take a photo of it in case a theft occurs in the future.
- Contact your insurer within 24 hours: Submit your police report, title/registration documents, and last known location. Your insurance provider may already have your title and registration documents on file.
- Prepare for the recovery period: Follow up regularly with police and your insurer during the typical 30-day waiting period before theft claims are processed. Keep all related documents organized and maintain a record of all communications.
How to Keep Your Car and Finances Safe Against Car Theft
Take these steps to reduce theft risk and potentially lower your car insurance costs:
- Install anti-theft devices: Tools like steering wheel locks, alarm systems, or GPS trackers can deter thieves and qualify you for car insurance discounts of 5-10%.
- Update vehicle software: Hyundai and Kia owners should install manufacturer security updates that address vulnerabilities in older models exposed by social media challenges.
- Optimize your deductible: Balance monthly premium costs against potential out-of-pocket expenses if theft occurs. Lower deductibles mean less financial strain during a claim but higher regular premiums.
- Consider gap insurance for financed vehicles: Protect yourself from continued loan payments if your stolen car's insurance payout is less than your remaining loan balance. Skipping this coverage is one of the most common car insurance mistakes that can leave you paying thousands for a vehicle you no longer possess.
- Practice basic security habits: Park in well-lit areas, lock your doors consistently, and never leave valuables visible inside your vehicle.
Conclusion
Driving one of America's most-stolen cars doesn't mean you're stuck with sky-high insurance rates. With the right protection strategies, you can keep both your vehicle and your bank account safer.
If you own one of the popular theft targets we've listed, comprehensive coverage isn't just nice to have—it's essential. However, installing steering wheel locks, using GPS trackers, and practicing smart parking habits can help protect your ride while potentially earning you insurance discounts.
» Ready for complete coverage? Explore our ultimate guide to car insurance in 2025.
