Hyundai, Kia Top America’s Most Stolen Vehicles List

It's not a list any we expect any automaker wants to top.  The list we speak of is the Most Stolen Vehicles in America, as compiled every year by the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

For 2023,  Hyundai and Kia models experienced the highest theft rates, with the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata ousting full-size pickups from the top two spots. The Kia Optima ranked third.  It's really no surprise really given the rise in Hyundai and Kia thefts due to social media trends that highlighted how to steal these vehicles.

Overall, the NICB says vehicle thefts rose 1 percent from 2022 to 2023.  When it comes to the top 10 most stolen makes and models, Hyundai and Kia occupy six  spots. Only one full-size pickup made the top 5, and that's the Chevrolet Silverado which moved from No. 1 to No.4. The Ford F-150 made a huge jump to No. 9 after ranking No.2 in 2022.

“These rankings highlight the persistent threat of vehicle theft across the country,” said NICB President and CEO David J. Glawe. “NICB works with law enforcement agencies and industry partners to deploy advanced technologies and strategies to combat vehicle theft from organized criminal networks and individuals. Even as we work to deter crime, it is crucial for owners to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect their vehicles.”

Complete Top 10 List

The NICB says its new report follows another NICB trend analysis, which indicates that the U.S. is still experiencing a surge in vehicle theft rates that started at the onset of the pandemic. The NICB says that this past year, vehicle theft claims rose 1 percent from 2022 to 2023.

NICB is coordinating efforts by all of the manufacturers to identify vehicles frequently stolen to reduce vehicle theft and partnering with state and federal law enforcement agencies to disrupt criminal networks and help recover stolen vehicles for member companies. It also participates in federal, state and local task forces, fusion centers, and intelligence groups to deter vehicle theft and works strategically with lawmakers and regulators in all 50 states to boost efforts by insurers and law enforcement to fight insurance fraud crime trends.

NICB Theft Prevention Tips 

• Park in well-lit areas.
• Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
• Hide valuables out of sight, such as in the glove box or trunk.
• Do not leave your keys in your vehicle.
• Do not leave the area while your vehicle is running.
• If your vehicle is stolen, call law enforcement and your insurer immediately because reporting a vehicle as soon as possible after it is stolen increases the chance of recovery.

What To Do If Your Vehicle Is Stolen

Report your vehicle as stolen immediately to police:

• NICB says its data shows that 34 percent of recovered stolen vehicles are recovered on the same day as the theft, and 45 percent are recovered within two days. Reporting the theft to law enforcement also provides a record to show to your insurer. 

Report your stolen vehicle to your insurer:

• Definitely report the theft to police ASAP. NICBN says insurers often need a police report before honoring a claim.

Be prepared to provide important vehicle information:

• You will need to provide the make/model of the vehicle, color, license plate number, as well as the vehicle’s VIN number.  (The VIN can be found on your insurance policy documentation or on the Proof of Insurance card.)
• The process for filing a stolen vehicle report to your insurer could be over the phone, online, or even directly to your insurance agent.

Learn more about reporting stolen vehicles here.

Photo Credit:  NICB.