The 2019 Hot Wheels report is out, and it looks like car thieves had a new favorite last year.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau uses crime data from across the country to create the report. In 2018, the Honda Civic was the top target of theft, but in 2019, thieves sought a higher-dollar heist.
The top 10 cars stolen in 2019 were:
10. Honda CR-V, stolen 10,094 times. The most popular model year was the 2001.
9. GMC full-size pickup: 11,164 thefts, led by the 2018 model year.
8. Ram full-size pickup: 11,292 thefts; 2001
7. Toyota Corolla: 12,137 thefts, 2018
6. Nissan Altima: 13,355 thefts; 2015
5. Toyota Camry: 15,656 thefts; 2007
4. Honda Accord: 30,745 thefts; 1997
3. Chevrolet full-size pickup: 32,583 thefts; 2004
2. Honda Civic: 33,220 thefts; 2000
1. Ford full-size pickup: 38,938 thefts; 2006
More than 2,500 additional Ford full-size pickups were stolen last year compared to 2018, but that wasn't necessarily what made it the hottest commodity. Really, thieves just stole fewer Civics — about 5,200 less than in 2018.
When it comes to the specific model, the 2000 Honda Civic had the most thefts, followed by the 1997 Honda Accord. Which should shut down anyone that uses the "no one wants my car anyways" methodology when choosing not to lock their car.
In 2019, the top three model years stolen were 2018 vehicles (47,859 thefts), followed by 2019 models (45,188 thefts), and 2017 models (39,425 thefts).
Once again, the NICB recommended four layers of protection to keep your vehicle safe, including:
- Tracking Devices that use GPS and wireless technologies to remotely monitor your vehicle.
- Immobilizing Devices, like smart keys, kill switches, starter, ignition, and fuel pump disablers and wireless ignition authentication.
- Warning Devices, such as the standard audible alarms, steering column collars and pedal locks.
- And finally, my favorite, common sense. Close your windows, lock your doors and, if you remember, take the keys out of the ignition.
If possible, park in a well-lit areas as well.
