Knowing what vehicles are on the top ten most stolen list is mostly important just so you are aware. There are extra precautions you can take to make your car less appealing to car thieves and you might have to think twice about where you park it. Also, if you live in an area riddled with problems, you may wish to steer clear of a few of these vehicles just to avoid the hassle. Usually, as long as you have a safe place to put your car at night, you lock it and you are diligent about the alarm you can avoid your car coming up missing. Thieves go for easy marks, not complicated takes.
1. Honda Accord
While the 1994 is the most popular Accord to go missing, all Honda Accords are very tempting to car thieves. It is a reliable car that lasts a long time which means people are often looking for parts or a cheap buy on such a vehicle. It is easy to turn around and make a profit on, making it very appealing. The older models are usually more popular just because the keying systems and alarms are less complex.
2. 1998 Honda Civic
The 1998 Honda Civic is a close second to the Accord. Stolen for some of the same reasons, the Civic has the added benefit of being a car that many people like to race. This means they can steal a car and change the overall look of it quickly and it becomes harder to track down and find once it is gone.
3. 2006 Ford Pickup Full Sized
The 2006 model of this pickup usually does not have lojack and is easier to steal than some of the later versions. It has enough power to tow and a large bed capacity. This is the type of vehicle often stolen for a purpose, someone wants to use the bed. It is considered more of a joyride situation, but that doesn’t mean you will always get the car back.
4. 1991 Toyota Camry
Toyota Camrys like Hondas last a very long time. This is considered one step above an Accord and is a comfortable car. If you live near the Mexico border this is a popular car to be stolen and taken across and sold as a whole vehicle. It is known to run forever and it makes it bait for those looking to turn a quick sale.
5. 2000 Dodge Caravan
The Dodge Caravan is the only minivan to make the list. Some speculate it is because it is the most popular minivan on the market, so by default more are stolen than any other minivan. This year has an easy key system to get around and thieves can make off with it quickly.
6. 1994 Acura Integra
A high-class steal, those looking to get their hands on this car are likely racers. They will know how to get around car alarms, adding lojack and a club can be a great deterrent.
7. 1999 Chevrolet Pickup Full Size
This pickup is one that is easy to exchange parts on, meaning that no matter what condition it is in, it is still something people will be looking at. It is the type of truck often left without any precautions making it easy to take.
8. 2004 Dodge Pickup Full Size
Dodge is known for its reliable and powerful engine. These trucks go missing quickly so you should be sure to always lock down the vehicle when it is unattended. Leaving something hooked to it if you often tow things is a great deterrent.
9. 2002 Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is the only SUV to make the list which is surprising. Many believe this is more popular than the Toyotas because it is easier to work on. Fords can exchange parts with many other Fords making it a desirable get for a car thief.
10. 1994 Nissan Sentra
Finally the Nissan Sentra, this is another racing car. While many use it as their everyday car there are many people out there looking for spare parts. Stealing these cars usually means your vehicle is in pieces within a few hours at best.
Keeping you car or truck repaired and in good working condition is key to road safety. Always make sure your tail lights and head lights are working. Proper windshield repair is also important to consider as cracks can lead to structural weaknesses in your vehicle.
For more information, visit these resources:
- http://www.fixmywindshield.com/
- http://www.justcorvettes.com/