Thanks to social media, they have taken the dubious honor from the Chevy Silverado
of ConsumerAffairs
If you own a Hyundai or Kia, keep a close eye on it. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports those brands have replaced the Chevy Silverado as the most stolen vehicles in America.
The organization says the two brands, produced by the same company, experienced the highest theft rates in 2023. For years, it was full-sized pickups most in danger of being stolen.
But is the change really a surprise? It shouldn't be. In recent months viral videos on TikTok have shown these brands vulnerabilities at least certain model years. Hyundai and Kia models produced between 2015 and 2022 lacked anti-theft immobilizers.
According to automotive experts, cars that use traditional ignition keys are the vehicles that are at risk. They say anything produced during 2022 and later are safer.
According to a 2022 TikTok video, presented as a TikTok Challenge, anyone can start and steal one of these cars using only a screwdriver and a USB cable.
NICB says social media trends show how to steal these vehicles likely played a factor in pushing Kia and Hyundai models to occupy six spots, including the top three, on the list of the 10 most stolen vehicles.
Other vehicles making the top 10
Also on the list are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Honda Accord, Honda Civic, and Ford F150 Series Pickup. NICB says more than 85% of passenger vehicles reported stolen were subsequently recovered by law enforcement or other means, with 34% recovered within a day of the vehicles being reported stolen.
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.
Heres the list of most stolen vehicles in 2023:
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Hyundai Elantra
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Hyundai Sonata
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Kia Optima
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Chevy Silverado 1500
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Kia Soul
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Honda Accord
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Honda Civic
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Kia Forte
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Ford F150 Series
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Kia Sportage
Photo Credit: Consumer Affairs News Department Images
Posted: 2024-05-13 14:19:49
