In the US, vehicle theft is a growing concern, impacting personal safety and security. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reported a concerning 1% increase in stolen vehicles in 2023 compared to 2022, with over a million cars stolen. Tess Koppelman’s experience in Kansas City, where her Kia Sorento was broken into twice in one summer, highlights this troubling trend and the search for solutions.
For years, full-size pickup trucks dominated the list of most stolen vehicles, a predictable outcome given their high resale value and demand for parts. However, recent trends have dramatically shifted this dynamic, with two particular manufacturers, Hyundai and Kia, now holding six of the top 10 spots on the NICB’s list for 2023, and even capturing the top three positions. This seismic shift can largely be attributed to a viral social media phenomenon—the infamous #KiaBoyz TikTok challenge—which exposed a glaring security vulnerability in many of their models, making them astonishingly easy to steal.
As a senior media editor, I’ve seen countless trends come and go, but few have had such a direct and devastating impact on everyday consumers. Nicholas Zeitlinger, a public affairs specialist with the NICB, candidly admits, “Besides large-scale trends like the security vulnerabilities of Kias and Hyundais made popular through online trends, as well as the general popularity of full-size pickups, we don’t have detailed answers as to why each of these vehicles are popular targets.” But understanding which vehicles are most at risk, and more importantly, why, is crucial for every car owner. Let’s dive deep into the top five most stolen cars from the 2023 NICB report, exploring the stories and vulnerabilities behind each one.
1. **Hyundai Elantra**
Topping the list as the most stolen car in the U.S. for 2023, the Hyundai Elantra saw a staggering 48,445 thefts that year alone. This isn’t just a slight increase; the thefts of Elantra models have skyrocketed by an astonishing 147%. The most commonly targeted model year for the Elantra is the 2017 version, a clear indication that the security weaknesses plaguing Hyundai’s vehicles spanned across several production years, leaving many owners vulnerable to sophisticated and not-so-sophisticated criminals alike.
According to Maya Afilalo, industry analyst at AutoInsurance.com, the Kia Elantra’s high theft rate is largely due to the #KiaBoyz trend on social media, which demonstrated an easy way to steal certain Kia and Hyundai models. Unlike traditional hot-wiring, thieves found a much quicker method for these specific vehicles.
The trick involved simply removing the ignition module cover and lock, and then, astoundingly, using a common USB into the key slot to start the car. This revelation transformed car theft into a viral sensation, making models like the Elantra irresistible targets for joyriders and professional thieves alike. Nicholas Zeitlinger of the NICB specifically cited the #KiaBoyz trend as the most likely cause for sedans dominating the top spots on their vehicle-theft list, noting that “Before the trend started, these models did not appear on our top 10 most stolen vehicles lists.”
While the 2023 numbers were alarming, there might be a glimmer of hope on the horizon. NICB data for the first two quarters of 2024 shows that thieves nabbed 17,363 Elantras. If this trend holds steady and doesn’t surge in the latter half of the year, it could indicate a potential slowing of thefts, perhaps due to increased awareness, security upgrades, or simply thieves moving on to other targets. Nevertheless, the Elantra’s journey to the top of this unenviable list serves as a potent reminder of how quickly technological vulnerabilities can be exploited in the digital age.
Car Model Information: 2022 Hyundai ELANTRA SEL
Name: Hyundai Elantra/Avante
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Aka: Hyundai Avante,Hyundai Lantra (1990–2000, Australia and Europe),Hyundai i30 Sedan (2020–present, Australia)
Production: 1990–present
Class: Compact car
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Hyundai Stellar
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with bare URLs for citations
Summary: The Hyundai Elantra, also known as the Hyundai Avante, is a compact car produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai since 1990. In Australia and some European markets, the Elantra was initially marketed as the Lantra during its first two generations, due to the similarly named “Elante” trim for the Mitsubishi Magna in the former market, and the Lotus Elan in the latter. After Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) dropped the “Elante” trim from the Magna range, and Lotus ceased production of the Elan in 1995, Hyundai standardized the “Elantra” name for both Australian and European markets following the introduction of the third-generation in 2001. The first-generation model was also sold as the Bimantara Nenggala in Indonesia between 1995 and 1998. Its home market name, Avante was first appeared starting from the second generation in 1995. The “Avante” name is not used in most export markets due to its similarity with Audi’s “Avant” designation, used for their station wagon models. As of 2018, Singapore is the only export market outside South Korea to utilize the “Avante” name. Since the seventh-generation, the “Elantra” name was retired in Australia, when Hyundai intergrated it into the i30 range, badging it as the i30 Sedan.
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Brand: Hyundai Model: Elantra
Price: $18,961 Mileage: 48,433 mi.
2. **Hyundai Sonata**
Trailing closely behind its sibling, the Hyundai Sonata secured the second spot on the 2023 list, with 42,813 units stolen. The most targeted model year for the Sonata is the 2013 version, another testament to the widespread nature of the security flaw across Hyundai’s product line. Like the Elantra, the surge in Sonata thefts is largely attributed to the notorious #KiaBoyz trend, turning this once-popular family sedan into a high-risk asset for its owners.
Maya Afilalo points out that these cars are easy targets for thieves because they “don’t require special skills or tools to steal,” lowering the entry barrier for even novice thieves. The theft rate for the Sonata nearly doubled compared to the previous year, surprising both owners and insurance companies and turning a reliable car into a significant liability.
However, there’s some positive news amidst the grim statistics. NICB data for the first two quarters of 2024 reveals Sonata thefts at 14,524. Should this pace continue without a substantial increase in the latter half of the year, it would represent a significant drop in overall thefts for the model. This potential reduction could be linked to ongoing efforts by Hyundai and Kia to address the issue. Many older Kia and Hyundai models notably lacked engine immobilizers—a critical anti-theft device—but this is finally changing. In May 2024, the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) published a report indicating that recent software updates from Kia and Hyundai have led to a significant reduction in thefts. This proactive response, though belated for some, offers a glimmer of hope for current and future Sonata owners.
Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SONATA SEL Plus
Name: Hyundai Sonata
Caption: 2024 Hyundai Sonata SEL (US)
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Production: 1985–present
Class: Mid-size car
BodyStyle: sedan (automobile)
Layout: ubl
Predecessor: Hyundai Stellar
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size car that has been manufactured by Hyundai since 1985. The first generation Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction. While the nameplate was originally only sold in South Korea, the second generation of 1988 was widely exported. The Sonata is currently manufactured in South Korea, China, and Pakistan. It was named after the musical term, sonata.
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Brand: Hyundai Model: Sonata
Price: $22,590 Mileage: 50,599 mi.
3. **Kia Optima**
Rounding out the top three is the Kia Optima, with 30,204 thefts in 2023, solidifying Kia’s significant presence on this unwelcome list. The 2015 model year stands out as the most targeted for the Optima, falling squarely within the range of vehicles most affected by the critical security flaw. The reasons behind the Optima’s high theft rate mirror those of its Hyundai counterparts: a widespread lack of engine immobilizers in older models and its unfortunate inclusion in the viral #KiaBoyz challenge.
This vulnerability made the Kia Optima an easy target, as thieves could bypass its ignition system with minimal effort. While the Optima’s growing popularity increased its visibility, the HLDI reports indicate that Kia models made between 2015 and 2019 are particularly susceptible to theft due to a specific security gap that was exploited once the theft method became widely known.
However, the HLDI report also offers a silver lining for Optima owners and those considering newer models. Significant security advances made after 2023 are reportedly helping to reduce theft rates for these vehicles. This means that while older Optimas remain at higher risk, newer models are being equipped with more robust anti-theft technologies designed to deter the methods popularized by the viral trend. Still, for owners of the older, more vulnerable models, the Optima’s sudden appearance on the most-stolen list is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in vehicle security.
Car Model Information: 2011 Kia Optima LX
Name: Kia Optima/K5
Caption: Kia K5 (DL3)
Manufacturer: Kia
Aka: Kia Magentis (2000–2010),Kia Optima (2000–2020),Kia Lotze (2005–2010)
Production: 2000–present
Class: Mid-size car
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Kia Credos
ModelYears: 2001–present
Categories: 2010s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with short description
Summary: The Kia K5, formerly known as the Kia Optima, is a mid-size car manufactured by Kia since 2000 and marketed globally through various nameplates. First generation cars were mostly marketed as the Optima, although the Kia Magentis name was used in Europe and Canada when sales began there in 2002. For the second-generation models, Kia used the Kia Lotze and Kia K5 name for the South Korean market, and the Magentis name globally, except in the United States, Canada, Malaysia and the Middle East, where the Optima name was retained until the 2021 model year. The K5 name is used for all markets since the introduction of the fifth generation in 2019.
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Brand: Kia Model: Optima
Price: $7,435 Mileage: 116,255 mi.
4. **Chevrolet Silverado 1500**
Breaking the Hyundai-Kia dominance, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 secures the fourth position on the 2023 list, with 23,721 units stolen. While still a significant number, this represents a notable drop from its previous standing. In 2022, a staggering 49,903 full-size Chevy pickups were stolen, making the Silverado the No. 1 most stolen vehicle that year. Its drop from the top slot in 2023 marked the first time in a decade that a full-size pickup of any make didn’t claim the unenviable distinction.
The most targeted model year for the Silverado 1500 is the 2004 version. This trend towards older models is not accidental. As Maya Afilalo explains, “Pickup trucks had long been popular targets for theft due to their high resale value and high demand for their parts.” Furthermore, she notes that “some older models lack advanced anti-theft technologies, making them easier to steal compared to newer vehicles.” The first-generation Silverado, particularly the post-2003 facelifted vehicles, has a cult following and basic security measures that are relatively easy for thieves to circumvent.
Despite the overall decrease in thefts compared to its peak, the Silverado’s consistent presence on the list underscores a persistent issue: the appeal of valuable parts. Chop shops have a steady demand for components from these popular trucks, making them a lucrative target. While newer models have improved security, the sheer volume of older Silverados on the road, coupled with their less sophisticated anti-theft systems, ensures they remain high on thieves’ wish lists. The nearly double-digit drop in stolen Chevys of this model compared to two years earlier is positive, but the enduring popularity of its parts means owners should still be vigilant.
Car Model Information: 2022 Dodge Charger R/T
Name: Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra
Caption: 2022 Silverado 2500HD High Country
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: 1998–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Chevrolet Silverado is a range of trucks manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand. Introduced for the 1999 model year, the Silverado is the successor to the long-running Chevrolet C/K model line. Taking its name from the top trim level from the Chevrolet C/K series, the Silverado is offered as a series of full-size pickup trucks, chassis cab trucks, and medium-duty trucks. The fourth generation of the model line was introduced for the 2019 model year.
The Chevrolet Silverado shares mechanical commonality with the identically related GMC Sierra; GMC ended the use of the C/K nomenclature a model generation prior to Chevrolet. In Mexico, high-trim level versions of the Silverado use the Chevrolet Cheyenne name (not to be confused with the 2003 concept). Competing against the Ford F-Series, Ram pickup, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan, the Silverado is among the best-selling vehicles in the United States, having sold over 12 million trucks since its introduction in 1998 as a 1999 model year.
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Silverado 1500
Price: $33,961 Mileage: 44,022 mi.
5. **Kia Soul**
Making its debut on the list this year, the Kia Soul lands in the fifth spot with 21,001 thefts in 2023. The 2015/2016 models are particularly targeted by thieves, indicating yet another instance where Kia’s vehicles, specifically those from a certain production period, were manufactured with a critical security vulnerability that makes them easy prey. The Soul’s entry onto this list further highlights the widespread impact of the engineering oversight in various Kia models.
The Kia Soul’s increased theft statistics stem from the same issue as other Kia models: the absence of engine immobilizers in certain model years makes them vulnerable to the #KiaBoyz trend. This has led to owner hardships and numerous lawsuits against Kia and Hyundai for not including these crucial anti-theft devices in vehicles manufactured between 2015 and 2020.
The ripple effect of these thefts has been felt acutely in major U.S. cities. For example, the city of Chicago sued the automakers after its 2022 records showed that Kia and Hyundai vehicles accounted for a staggering 41% of all car thefts in the city. Other major metropolitan areas reported similar, alarming percentages: Seattle saw a 620% increase in Kia and Hyundai thefts between 2021 and 2022, with Cleveland and New York City also reporting comparable surges. The Kia Soul, now joining the ranks of its more frequently stolen brethren, embodies the urgent need for enhanced security measures and owner awareness.
Car Model Information: 2023 Kia Soul LX
Name: Kia Soul
Caption: 2023 Kia Soul GT Line
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: 2008–2025
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: hatchback
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
ModelYears: 2010–2025
Categories: 2010s cars, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with dead external links from December 2017
Summary: The Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Kia since 2008. Often described and marketed as a crossover since its introduction, the Soul is a hatchback with a box proportion and tall roof, which are designed to maximize its interior space. Despite its SUV-like styling, the Soul was never available with all-wheel drive, instead it is exclusively a front-wheel drive vehicle. The Soul first appeared in 2006 in the form of a concept model displayed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The production model made its debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2008. During its introduction, Kia stated that the Soul is aimed at the North American market, and targeted towards buyers in the 18 to 35-year old range. The second-generation model was introduced in 2013 for the 2014 model year, which featured a larger exterior and interior dimensions along with a reworked chassis, while keeping its boxy styling. The Soul is currently in its third generation, which was introduced in 2018 for the 2019 model year. Since 2014, Kia has also marketed a battery electric variant as the Soul EV. The name “Soul” comes from the homophone of Seoul, the city that hosts Kia’s headquarters.
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Brand: Kia Model: Soul
Price: $16,961 Mileage: 58,302 mi.
6. **Honda Accord**
Shifting gears from the recent viral vulnerabilities, we arrive at a long-time fixture on the most-stolen lists: the Honda Accord. In 2023, 20,985 units of this popular sedan were stolen across the U.S., making it a consistent target for thieves. While this number is substantial, it actually represents a drop of around 11% compared to the previous year, showing a slight shift in the theft landscape, even as other models surged.
The 1997 model year of the Honda Accord stands out as the most targeted, a testament to its enduring popularity and the lucrative market for its parts. Maya Afilalo, an industry analyst at AutoInsurance.com, succinctly explains why older Hondas, much like pickup trucks, remain prime targets. She notes, “Honda Civics and Accords rank among the most stolen vehicles, largely because their popularity creates a high demand for stolen parts. Additionally, as with pickup trucks, older models often lack advanced security features.” This combination of high demand and lower security is a thief’s dream.
Indeed, the fifth-generation Honda Accord, produced around the turn of the century, still offers reliable and basic transportation to countless drivers. However, this very reliability, coupled with less sophisticated anti-theft measures compared to today’s vehicles, makes it an attractive proposition for those with less-than-honorable intentions. The sheer volume of these older Accords on the road also contributes to their visibility as targets, ensuring a steady supply for chop shops needing parts.
For owners of these classic Accords, the message is clear: vigilance is key. While newer models boast improved security, the older 1997 model, in particular, continues to be a hot commodity in the illicit market. If you’re considering one of these dependable older models, or already own one, it’s wise to consider an aftermarket immobilizer or even a simple kill switch to enhance its protection. This simple step can make a world of difference in deterring opportunistic thieves.
Car Model Information: 2021 Honda Accord LX 1.5T
Name: Honda Accord
Caption: 2023 Honda Accord LX (US)
Alt: Front three-quarter view of a front-engined four-door car.
Manufacturer: Honda
Production: 1976–present
Class: Compact car
BodyStyle: hatchback
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Honda 1300
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Honda Accord, also known as the Honda Inspire in Japan and China for certain generations, is a series of automobiles manufactured by Honda since 1976, best known for its four-door sedan variant, which has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States since 1989. The Accord nameplate has been applied to a variety of vehicles worldwide, including coupes, station wagons, hatchbacks and a Honda Crosstour crossover.
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Brand: Honda Model: Accord
Price: $20,562 Mileage: 96,149 mi.
7. **Honda Civic**
Just nudging out its sibling, the Honda Civic secured the seventh spot on our list, with 19,858 units stolen in 2023. This vehicle shares many of the same theft magnet qualities as the Accord, particularly its pervasive popularity and the immense demand for its components in the secondary market. The Honda Civic 2000 model, in particular, proved to be highly vulnerable, making it the most targeted year for thieves seeking easy gains.
These Civics from the ’90s and early 2000s have attained legendary status for various reasons, but unfortunately, one of those is their notorious ease of theft. Unlike the sophisticated anti-theft technology found in many modern cars, these older Honda models often lack advanced security mechanisms, presenting a significantly lower barrier for entry to car thieves. It’s a classic case where accessibility meets demand, creating a perfect storm for theft.
Maya Afilalo articulates this dynamic perfectly, stating, “At the end of the day, the easier it is to steal a car and the greater the ‘reward’ for doing so—in other words, the hotter the market for stolen parts—the more likely it is to get stolen.” This insight truly highlights why the Honda Civic, despite its age, remains a prime target. The abundance of Honda vehicles on the road, with many models sharing interchangeable parts, makes them incredibly lucrative for chop shops looking to quickly disassemble and resell components.
While newer Honda Civics boast improved security, the ’90s EG and EK models up to the year 2000 remain easy targets for thieves. Owners of these beloved older Civics should consider enhancing security with aftermarket alarms, steering wheel locks, or tracking devices to deter potential thieves.
Car Model Information: 2024 Honda Civic Sport
Caption: 2024 Honda Civic liftback
Manufacturer: Honda
Aka: ubl
Production: 1972–present
Class: Subcompact car
BodyStyle: fastback,Sedan (automobile)
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Honda N600,Honda Z600
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Honda Civic is a series of automobiles manufactured by Honda since 1972. As of 2023, the Civic is positioned between the Honda Fit/City and Honda Accord in Honda’s global passenger car line-up. It is one of the best-selling automobiles in history, with over 27 million units sold through 2021. The first-generation Civic was introduced in July 1972 as a two-door fastback sedan, followed by a three-door hatchback that September. With a 1,169 cc transverse engine and front-wheel drive, the car provided good interior space despite its small overall dimensions. Initially gaining a reputation for being fuel-efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly, later iterations have become known for performance and sportiness, especially the Civic Si, SiR, and Type R versions. It is currently in its eleventh generation, which has been produced since 2021. The Civic has often been rebadged for international markets, and it served as the basis for the Honda CR-X, the Honda CR-X del Sol, the Concerto, the first generation Prelude, the Civic Shuttle (which later became the Orthia) and the CR-V (which in turn was used as the basis for the Honda FR-V).
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Brand: Honda Model: Civic
Price: $26,561 Mileage: 18,230 mi.
8. **Kia Forte**
The Kia Forte carves out the eighth position on our list, with 16,209 units stolen in 2023. This marks yet another entry for Kia, underscoring the brand’s pronounced presence among the most targeted vehicles. What makes the Forte particularly noteworthy is that its newer 2021 model year is the most frequently pilfered, indicating that the security vulnerabilities extend into more recent production runs, challenging the notion that only older models are at risk.
The core issue behind the Forte’s alarming theft rate aligns with its Kia and Hyundai siblings: a significant security flaw in its engine immobilizer devices. This vulnerability, affecting models from 2011 to 2021, essentially made these vehicles easier and more desirable targets for thieves, as Maya Afilalo points out. The #KiaBoyz phenomenon may have brought widespread attention to the problem, but the underlying engineering oversight made the trend possible in the first place.
This continuation of security weaknesses into later model years for the Forte serves as a stark reminder of the challenges automakers face in quickly adapting to emerging threats. While Kia and Hyundai have been working to implement software updates and hardware solutions, the sheer volume of vulnerable vehicles already on the road, including many Fortes, means owners must remain hyper-aware and proactive. The “alarming trend” of newer models entering this list emphasizes the ongoing fight against auto theft.
For Kia Forte owners, especially those with models from the 2011-2021 range, checking with dealerships for available software upgrades or considering aftermarket immobilizers is not just a suggestion—it’s a critical step. These proactive measures can help to close the security gaps that have unfortunately made the Forte an attractive target, ensuring that your car stays where you parked it rather than becoming another statistic in this troubling trend.
Car Model Information: 2019 Kia Forte S
Name: Kia Forte
Manufacturer: Kia
Aka: Kia Cerato,Kia K3 (South Korea and China)
Production: 2008–2024
Class: Compact car
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive layout
Related: Kia Ceed,Hyundai Elantra
Predecessor: Kia Cerato,Kia Spectra
Successor: Kia K4 (2024)
Categories: 2010s cars, ANCAP small family cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with dead YouTube links, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Kia Forte, known as the K3 in Asia, the Forte K3 or Shuma in China and Cerato in South America, Australia, New Zealand and Russia, is a compact car manufactured by South Korean automaker Kia from mid-2008 until 2024, replacing the Kia Spectra. Throughout its production, it was available in two-door coupe, four-door sedan, five-door hatchback variants. It was not sold in Europe, which got the similarly sized Kia Ceed (except for Russia and Ukraine, where the Ceed and the Forte were sold together). In some markets, such as Korea, Australia and Brazil, the Forte is marketed as Kia Cerato, replacing its predecessor of the same name. In Colombia and Singapore, the name Cerato Forte was used for the second generation, while Naza Automotive Manufacturing of Malaysia has assembled the vehicle since 2009, selling it there under the name Naza Forte. Production of the Forte ended in 2024 and it was replaced by the K4, as Kia realigned their passenger car nomenclature, with the K3 name being transferred to a subcompact car replacing the Kia Rio.
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Brand: Kia Model: Forte
Price: $15,561 Mileage: 65,700 mi.
9. **Ford F-150**
No list of most stolen vehicles would be complete without America’s perennial best-seller, the Ford F-Series pickup. The F-150, specifically, landed in the ninth spot with 15,852 thefts in 2023. While this number keeps it on the list, it actually represents a massive decrease from 2022, when a staggering 48,175 Ford F-Series trucks were stolen. This significant drop can largely be attributed to the meteoric rise of Hyundai and Kia thefts, which have reshuffled the entire landscape of vehicle crime.
Despite a recent dip in overall numbers, Ford F-Series pickups remain highly desirable and frequently stolen, especially the 2006 model year from the eleventh generation. This trend highlights the persistent appeal of older models with less advanced security systems that are easier for criminals to bypass.
Beyond their inherent popularity, the high demand for F-150 parts contributes significantly to their allure for thieves and chop shops. As Maya Afilalo previously noted regarding pickup trucks in general, their high resale value and the demand for their components make them lucrative targets. Older keyed ignition systems, while seemingly straightforward, can be outmaneuvered by determined thieves. Moreover, a surprising factor contributing to thefts, even in newer models, is owners inadvertently leaving key fobs inside the vehicle, making a quick getaway incredibly simple.
For F-150 owners, particularly those with older models, it’s important to know that even with shifting trends, the truck’s desirability means it remains a target. Simple precautions like never leaving keys in the vehicle, parking in well-lit areas, and adding security measures can significantly protect your truck.
Car Model Information: 2019 Ford F-150 XLT
Name: Ford F-Series
Caption: 2022 Ford F-150 Lariat Luxury
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Aka: Ford Lobo (Mexico, 1992–present)
Production: 1948–present
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: 1941 Ford
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles that may contain original research, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles that may contain original research from September 2020
Summary: The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since model year 1948 as a range of full-sized pickup trucks — positioned between Ford’s Ranger and Super Duty pickup trucks. Alongside the F-150 (introduced in 1975), the F-Series also includes the Super Duty series (introduced in 1999), which includes the heavier-duty F-250 through F-450 pickups, F-450/F-550 chassis cabs, and F-600/F-650/F-750 Class 6–8 commercial trucks.
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Brand: Ford Model: F-150
Price: $32,411 Mileage: 63,026 mi.
10. **Kia Sportage**
Rounding out our list of the top 10 most stolen cars in the U.S. for 2023 is yet another Kia: the Sportage, with 15,749 units stolen. Its inclusion, particularly with the 2020 model year being the most targeted, serves as a conclusive, if unfortunate, reminder of the widespread security vulnerabilities that have plagued the automaker’s lineup during a critical period.
The reasons for the Kia Sportage’s appearance on this list are, by now, familiar: a critical lack of engine immobilizers in certain model years and its unfortunate susceptibility to the methods popularized by the #KiaBoyz viral trend. This engineering oversight transformed what should have been a reliable family SUV into an easy mark for thieves, leading to considerable distress for owners and significant legal challenges for the manufacturer.
The data unequivocally shows that the period between 2011 and 2021 was particularly problematic for Kia and Hyundai in terms of these security shortcomings. The Sportage, especially its 2020 model, falls squarely within this timeframe, highlighting that the issue was not isolated to just a few models but rather a systemic concern across a broad spectrum of their vehicles. It’s a trend that no carmaker wants to be part of.
For Kia Sportage owners, particularly those with the more vulnerable model years, taking proactive steps is absolutely crucial. This includes promptly seeking out any available software or hardware upgrades from Kia dealerships, which are designed to bolster the vehicle’s defenses against these known theft methods. Implementing additional layers of security, such as a steering wheel lock or a comprehensive alarm system, can significantly reduce the risk and provide much-needed peace of mind in these challenging times.
So, as we navigate the complex landscape of vehicle theft, one thing becomes crystal clear: staying informed and being proactive are your best defenses. Whether you own one of the highly targeted models on this list or drive something completely different, understanding the risks is the first step toward protecting your investment. The good news is, there are practical, actionable strategies you can employ today to safeguard your ride and keep it out of thieves’ hands.
Heeding advice from experts like Maya Afilalo and Nicholas Zeitlinger, and utilizing tips from NICB and AAA, is crucial. Basic actions such as locking doors, parking in lit areas, and not leaving keys unattended are fundamental. For vulnerable Kia and Hyundai models, contacting dealerships for software and hardware upgrades is vital to address known security flaws.
Car Model Information: 2017 Kia Sportage SX Turbo
Name: Kia Sportage
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: 1993–present
Class: Compact SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Predecessor: Kia Retona
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Chassis: ubl
ModelYears: 1995–present
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, ANCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English
Summary: The Kia Sportage is a series of automobiles manufactured by the South Korean manufacturer Kia since 1993 through five generations. Initially a compact SUV built on a body-on-frame chassis, the second-generation Sportage transitioned to a car-based platform which placed it into the compact crossover SUV class, and was originally developed alongside the Hyundai Tucson and since the fifth-generation model launched in 2021, in two sizes with different wheelbase lengths for different markets, alongside the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Kia Sorento. The Sportage has been the best-selling Kia model globally since 2016 after surpassing the Rio. In 2018, the model reached the 5 million production milestone. As of 2023, the Sportage is positioned between the Seltos or Niro and the three-row Sorento in Kia’s SUV global lineup with the latter sharing platform with the Sportage.
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Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Kia Model: Sportage
Price: $11,645 Mileage: 120,891 mi.
Implementing advanced solutions like vehicle tracking devices, such as an Apple AirTag, can significantly boost recovery chances if theft occurs. Comprehensive insurance coverage acts as a financial safety net against theft costs. Consulting an independent insurance agent can help you secure the right policy for peace of mind in a rapidly changing world of car theft.
