Added on August 20, 2014  The News Wheel
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The Most-Stolen Cars in America: Is Yours One?

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The Most-Stolen Cars Blue car Ford Junk Yard

You should be aware and prepared if your car is one of the most stolen cars. Photo: Oswald N

Every car owner dreads the idea of their car being stolen, but rarely is aware of the chances that they actually face. Forbes has unveiled the list of the most frequently-stolen cars in the United States, which sheds light on which models are targets for thieves.

The Most-Stolen Cars in America

The ten most stolen cars of 2013, incorporating every existing model year and according to total units cited, are:

  1. Honda Accord, 53,995
  2. Honda Civic, 45,001
  3. Chevrolet Silverado, 27,809
  4. Ford F-150, 26,494
  5. Toyota Camry, 14,420
  6. Dodge/Ram Pickup, 11,347
  7. Dodge Caravan, 10,911
  8. Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee, 9,272
  9. Toyota Corolla, 9,010
  10. Nissan Altima, 8,892

Of only the new cars sold in the 2013 model year, here are the most-nabbed victims (total units cited):

  1. Nissan Altima, 810
  2. Ford Fusion, 793
  3. Ford F-150, 775
  4. Toyota Corolla, 669
  5. Chevrolet Impala, 654
  6. Hyundai Elantra, 541
  7. Dodge Charger, 536
  8. Chevrolet Malibu, 529
  9. Chevrolet Cruze, 499
  10. Ford Focus, 483

Both surveys were based on data collected by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), and the prevalence of the Honda Accord matches the survey done by LoJack we covered in May.

You’ll notice that luxury cars, like Mazda, BMW, and Rolls Royce, are absent from the list. That’s because these cars exist with less frequency on the streets, are typically in less dangerous neighborhoods, and draw too much attention. In actuality, common family and student vehicles are the targets for thieves.

So, what should you do if your car is on this list? Fortunately, the NICB has several useful suggestions to keep your car safe and in your possession.

NCIB Hot Wheels

Do you own a Honda Accord? Might want to invest in a Club. And a LoJack. And a security bear in the trunk.

Tips to Keep Your Car Safe

First, take simple steps to avoid leaving your car in a situation that makes theft an easy act. Thus, never leave your keys in the ignition; always close your windows and sunroof; avoid dangerous areas of town. Keep your car in the garage instead of the driveway, or at least keep it in a well-lit area if you don’t have a garage.

Also, the NICB recommends finding any method to slow thieves down to deter them from breaking into your car. For instance, investing in anti-theft devices such as a steering wheel lock, alarm system, or even an anti-theft sticker will be enough to discourage a thief from wasting time on your vehicle. Even an ignition kill switch could make the difference.

Emphasize that your car can be tracked. Keep your VIN number etched on major components and areas of the vehicle, such as the windshield and the engine. If you have the money, invest in a GPS tracking system or a new car altogether, as they feature built-in immobilizers that make hot-wiring difficult.

Basically, of all the cars on the street, don’t make yours the easiest target. And, don’t let the thief drive away if they break in.

Unfortunately, a car still is stolen every 45 seconds, and if you become the victim, we also have advice on what you can do to recover it.

Source: Forbes