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Car Theft Is Dropping, But These Models Are Still at Risk

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Car theft in the United States has started to decline. According to a report from Mercury Insurance using National Insurance Crime Bureau data, auto theft fell by 23% in 2025 compared with the same period in 2024. Earlier, thefts had already dropped by 16.7% the year before. These declines followed a major spike in 2023 when theft rates reached record levels.

Automakers responded quickly after the surge. As a result, several manufacturers introduced new security improvements designed to protect vehicles from theft. Hyundai and Kia, in particular, faced strong criticism after researchers exposed weaknesses in some of their ignition systems.

Because of that pressure, both brands recently agreed to retrofit around seven million vehicles in the United States. The companies added zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors to older models. At the same time, they committed to installing engine immobilizers in all future vehicles sold in the American market.

Modern Car Theft Methods Are Changing

Car thief using keyless signal device

Gemini AI | Modern thieves use quiet digital tricks like signal interception and OBD access to steal cars quickly.

Although overall numbers have dropped, vehicle theft remains a serious concern in many areas. California still struggles with higher-than-average theft levels. Los Angeles County continues to rank among the regions most affected by the problem.

However, today’s car thieves rarely use traditional break-ins. Instead, many rely on advanced, low-noise methods that leave little to no visible damage. Common techniques include keyless entry relay attacks, exploiting on-board diagnostic (OBD) ports, and intercepting wireless signals from key fobs.

Because these approaches happen quickly, many owners never realize a theft is underway until the vehicle disappears.

Steps Drivers Can Take to Prevent Theft

Security experts continue to encourage drivers to remain cautious. Mercury Insurance recommends several simple yet effective precautions that reduce theft risks.

Drivers can protect their vehicles by:

1. Using steering-wheel locks to block wheel movement
2. Storing key fobs in signal-blocking pouches
3. Avoiding leaving vehicles running unattended
4. Installing tracking tools or kill switches

These measures not only slow down thieves but also make vehicles less appealing targets.

Vehicles That Thieves Still Target Most

Popular cars often targeted by thieves

Gemini Ai | Popular cars like the Hyundai Elantra, Kia Soul, and Ford F-150 still attract thieves despite improved security.

Even with improved security, certain vehicles continue to appear frequently in theft reports. In the first half of 2025, four of the ten most stolen cars belonged to Hyundai or Kia.

Those models included the Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, and Kia Soul. Their popularity among thieves once sparked the viral “Kia Challenge,” which showed how easily some cars could be stolen.

Other frequently stolen vehicles include popular best-sellers such as the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Honda CR-V. Also, the Honda Accord, Honda Civic, and Toyota Camry also appear regularly in theft statistics.

Industry experts stress that declining numbers do not eliminate the threat. A Mercury Insurance product manager explained that theft incidents remain significant in several regions, especially California. Because of that reality, vehicle owners should stay alert and continue protecting their cars.

While new technology helps reduce risk, thieves also adapt quickly. Strong habits, visible deterrents, and updated security tools still provide the best defense against modern car theft.

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