The Epidemic of Auto Theft
In the latest report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) for 2023, it’s revealed that vehicles from Kia, Hyundai, and Honda dominate the list of the top ten most stolen vehicles in the U.S. Among these, the Hyundai Elantra tops the list with a staggering 48,445 thefts reported last year, followed by the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima with 42,813 and 30,204 thefts respectively. Ford and Chevrolet also see their models among the most targeted, indicating a widespread issue across various popular brands.
Recovery Rates and Preventative Measures
While vehicle theft remains a significant concern, the NICB notes a recovery rate of over 85% for stolen passenger vehicles, with one-third being recovered within a day of the theft report. NICB President David J. Glawe emphasizes the collaboration with law enforcement and industry partners to implement advanced technologies and strategies to curb these crimes. Owners are urged to remain proactive and vigilant, adopting recommended safety practices to safeguard their vehicles.
Legal and Safety Enhancements
The theft vulnerability of certain Kia and Hyundai models has drawn legal actions, with seventeen state attorneys general suing over the absence of standard immobilizers—devices that prevent the engine from starting without the correct key. In response to a surge in thefts linked to a social media trend and subsequent legal pressure, Hyundai and Kia agreed to a $200 million class-action settlement to address the security flaws. The companies have since updated their software to better protect against theft, aiming to restore confidence among consumers and decrease the likelihood of future incidents.