The five most popular stolen cars – and how to prevent car theft

Motoring

Some cars are historically more popular than others with thieves than others, especially those who are looking for ‘part out’ and sell individual parts, rather than selling the cars as a whole. 

Luke Bishop, Parts Manager at GM Parts Direct, reveals the top five most popular cars stolen for parts, and what you can do to prevent car theft.  

1) Kia Optima: 30,204 stolen in 2023

In 2021, the Optima was not among the top 10 most stolen cars, but a 2022 viral TikTok challenge, that demonstrated how to easily steal certain Kia models, led to a significant rise in theft.

As the Optima becomes more common on the road, it naturally becomes a higher target for theft, and it contains valuable parts that are in high demand; from catalytic converters containing valuable metals, to the infotainment system, which is expensive to replace and can be sold for a high price on the second-hand market.  

2) Ford F150 Series Pickup: 15,852 stolen in 2023 

The Ford F-series is the best-selling vehicle in the U.S alone, with over 40 million sold. Unfortunately for fans of this popular pickup, it’s popularity is the very thing that makes it so attractive to thieves. These trucks have parts that are in high-demand, which can be sold separately for a significant profit, and the second-hand market for them means that stolen vehicles can be sold quickly and easily, without the value deprecating very much.

3) Honda Civic: 19,858 stolen in 2023

The Honda Civic has long been a favourite with car thieves, especially older models, and the Civic has been the most stolen over the past decade. Older Civics have fewer anti-theft technologies than more modern options, which makes them easier to steal, and as they are reliable and economical vehicles, there is a larger marker for used parts. 

5) Honda Accord: 20,895 stolen in 2023

The Accord also tends to lack the security system technology that is clearly needed, and as the vehicle is known for its longevity, there is a high demand for replacement parts. The Accord is a popular family sedan, which means there’s a strong market for parts as well as the car as a whole.

5) Toyota Camry: 17,094 stolen in 2023 

The Camry has a reputation for being reliable, which makes it highly sought-after in the used car market. Like the Honda Civic and Accord, older Camry models often lack advanced security systems, which make them an easy target for thieves searching for in-demand parts. 

What can you do to prevent car theft?

Here are some quick tips to help you prevent your car being stolen:

  • Install anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks, catalytic converter shields, and alarms – especially if your vehicle is older, with fewer security measures than modern models. 
  • Park in well-lit locations. Good lighting and visibility reduce the risk of theft, compared to shady, hidden areas.
  • Engrave the VIN; make the most desirable parts less attractive to thieves by engraving them with your Vehicle Identification Number. 
  • GPS tracking devices can be easily installed, and can help the authorities locate your stolen car to increase the chances of recovery. 
  • If you have a keyless entry system, keep your key fob in a signal-blocking pouch or metal container so thieves can’t use relay devices to unlock the car themselves. 
  • Valuables left in sight can attract attention from thieves, whether they’re looking for small things to steal or looking for whole cars to sell for parts, so make sure your vehicle is free from anything that could be tempting to criminals.