Is Your Car More At Risk of Theft Than Others? Expert Explains 3 Key Factors

See What Makes Your Car an Attractive Target for Thieves and How You Can Avoid It

Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

Car thefts are accelerating. Over a million vehicles were stolen in the United States in 2023 alone and 2024 doesn’t seem to be going in a better direction.

Interestingly, some cars are more at risk than others.

Marc Phillips, a car expert at RoadRunner Auto Transport, shares his expertise on awareness of the factors that make your car a target, and how you can significantly reduce the risk of theft.

3 Key Factors That Make Your Car More Susceptible to Theft

While there can be many reasons why a thief might choose one car over tens of others, the following three are key factors:

• Lack of Engine Immobilizers

Certain car models are simply easier to steal due to high demand and a lack of sophisticated security features. “These vehicles often lack advanced anti-theft technology, making them easier to break into and hotwire,” says Marc.

One concern is that some car models lack immobilization devices. Over 8 million Kia and Hyundai models lack this essential anti-theft technology, making them prime targets. 

“Engine immobilizers are a critical line of defense against theft,” Marc adds.

This weakness was actually exploited in a viral TikTok trend, making these specific cars even more attractive to thieves.

• Popularity of Car Models

Certain makes and models are more attractive to thieves than others.

The most commonly stolen vehicles tend to be from the early 2000s, with the 1997 Honda Accord and early 2000s pickups frequently targeted. Interestingly, the 2021 Toyota Camry is the newest model on the list of most stolen vehicles in 2022.

Marc explains that thieves are interested in these models because they can be quickly resold or stripped for parts.

• Opportunity Makes a Thief

Leaving your car unattended in a high-risk location is an invitation for theft. Marc emphasizes, “Thieves operate in seconds, and an unlocked car with valuables inside is simply too tempting to resist.”  

Specifically, where you park your vehicle matters significantly. Cars parked in poorly lit, secluded areas are at a higher risk. 

On top of that, if valuables are in plain sight, your car becomes an obvious target.

Prevention is Key

Marc recommends the following preventive measures:

1. Choose a well-lit area where your car can be easily seen from multiple vantage points.
2. Park beneath or near the scope of view of parking lot security cameras.
3. Even if you’re only out of the vehicle for a short period, never leave your keys in the car.
4. Use a steering wheel lock when your car is parked as an additional layer of security.
5. Keep valuables out of plain sight or leave them at home.
6. Before leaving your vehicle, make sure all doors and windows are locked and securely shut.
7. If possible, store your vehicle in a locked garage.
8. Installing state-law-compliant window tint can prevent thieves from viewing the interior of your vehicle.
9. Consider installing an aftermarket vehicle recovery system device to track your vehicle if it gets stolen.
10. Stay up to date on car theft tactics and techniques to better protect your vehicle.

Marc finishes with, “Increasing car theft is an unfortunate reality. Remember that an understanding of what thieves target and how to protect your car can go a long way.”

 

[ENDS]

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About RoadRunner

RoadRunner Auto Transport is a leading US-based car shipping company with 30+ years of expertise. They offer secure, speedy, and personalized vehicle transport services nationwide, catering to various vehicle types with door-to-door delivery using open and enclosed carriers. Renowned for their client roster, including US celebrities, they provide detailed shipment process and tracking on their website, with the locations and quotation.

Spokesperson: Marc Philips

 

Sources

Number of thefts in the U.S. data from National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB)

Most commonly stolen vehicles data from Insurance Information Institute

KIA and Hyundai cars at risk data from AP