The most stolen cars in the U.S.

By Allstate

Last updated: January 2026

Key points

  • Hyundai, Kia, Honda, and Chevrolet dominate the list of most-stolen vehicles, often because of their abundance and certain security vulnerabilities.
  • Online trends have driven up theft rates in specific cars, particularly older ones without modern anti-theft tech.
  • Locking your doors, installing an anti-theft system and parking in well-lit areas, are basic preventive measures that can help deter car theft.

In 2023 more than one million vehicle thefts were reported, and overall thefts increased about one percent nationwide from 2022 according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). Find out which cars are most commonly stolen, how you can avoid buying a stolen car and what you can do to help prevent your vehicle from being stolen.

Thief dressed in black opening car door with screwdriver.

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The top 10 most stolen vehicles of 2023

Each year, the NICB compiles a "Hot Wheels” report that provides information on the most stolen vehicle makes and models. Here are the 10 most stolen vehicles of 2023 by make and model:

  1. Hyundai Elantra
  2. Hyundai Sonata
  3. Kia Optima
  4. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  5. Kia Soul
  6. Honda Accord
  7. Honda Civic
  8. Kia Forte
  9. Ford F150 Series Pickup
  10. Kia Sportage

How to avoid buying a stolen car or part

The NICB warns that even if you didn't know you bought a stolen vehicle, it can be confiscated and returned to its original owner. To help avoid buying a stolen vehicle, NICB recommends that you:

  • Contact your state's motor vehicle department to check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
  • Run a title search on the vehicle.
  • Ask your insurance company if they can inspect the vehicle before you buy.
  • Be wary of buying a car from anyone you don't know who is using a cell phone for contact, especially from online ads
  • Walk away if you don't trust the seller and something doesn’t feel right

Stolen car parts, from catalytic converters to bumpers, doors, wheels and hoods are also on the rise, says the NICB. To avoid unknowingly having stolen parts installed on your vehicle, the NICB suggests:

  • Using repair shops with Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified technicians.
  • Getting shop recommendations from friends, family or your insurance provider.
  • Asking for a written warranty for installed parts and completed paint work.

How to prevent auto theft

Taking steps to help prevent your car from being stolen could save you a lot of time and money, particularly if you drive one of the most stolen cars or live in an area prone to auto theft. Some basic preventive measures, such as locking your doors, installing an anti-theft system and parking in well-lit areas, can help deter thieves.

It may also be a good idea to review your auto insurance coverage, since comprehensive coverage may help if your vehicle or just certain parts of it are stolen. Knowing you've taken action to help protect your car may give you some peace of mind.