The most stolen cars of 2025 are a mix of high-tech vehicles and older models, according to new reports. Car thefts have changed a lot in recent years, with thieves targeting both flashy electric cars and easy-to-resell classics. Let’s look at which cars are disappearing the most and what drivers can do to stay safe.
Car Theft Trends in 2025
Car thefts have been rising since the early 2020s, but 2025 has brought new challenges. Thieves are using smarter tools, like hacking devices and signal boosters, to steal cars without keys. At the same time, older cars without modern security systems are still popular targets because they are easier to break into.
Experts say the most stolen cars of 2025 fall into two categories: luxury vehicles with expensive parts and common models that thieves can sell quickly. For example, electric cars with advanced batteries are hot items for criminals, while pickup trucks and SUVs remain easy to resell on the black market.
Why These Cars Are Stolen
Thieves choose cars based on three things: value, demand, and ease of theft. Luxury cars like the Tesla Model Y and Ford F-150 Lightning are stolen for their parts, which can be sold for thousands of dollars. Older cars, like the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry, are targeted because they are everywhere, and their parts fit many vehicles.
Another reason is technology. Keyless entry systems, which let drivers unlock cars with a fob, have a weakness. Thieves use “relay attacks” to copy the fob’s signal from inside a home and steal the car in minutes. This trick has made high-end cars like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class a top target.
Top 5 Most Stolen Cars of 2025
- Tesla Model Y: Electric cars are in high demand, and their batteries are worth a lot. Thieves strip them down and sell the parts online.
- Ford F-150 Lightning: This electric truck is popular for its power and tech. Its large size also makes it easy to spot and steal.
- Honda Civic (2010-2015): Older Civics lack modern anti-theft tech. Their engines and transmissions fit many other cars, so parts sell fast.
- Chevrolet Silverado: America’s favorite pickup is also a favorite for thieves. They often ship stolen Silverados overseas.
- Hyundai Kia: Models from 2015-2021 are still easy to steal due to a viral TikTok challenge showing how to hot-wire them with a USB cable.
| Car Model | Reason for Theft |
|---|---|
| Tesla Model Y | High demand for electric car parts, valuable batteries |
| Ford F-150 Lightning | Popular electric truck, easy to resell |
| Honda Civic (2010-2015) | Lacks modern security, parts fit many vehicles |
| Chevrolet Silverado | Common pickup, often shipped overseas |
| Hyundai/Kia (2015-2021) | Still vulnerable to USB hot-wiring theft |
How to Protect Your Car
While no car is 100% theft-proof, there are ways to lower the risk. First, always lock your doors and roll up windows. Thieves often target unlocked cars first. For keyless entry cars, store the fob in a metal box or Faraday pouch to block signal thieves. Installing a steering wheel lock or GPS tracker can also help. Police say trackers like Apple AirTag or Tile have helped recover stolen cars within hours. Finally, park in well-lit areas or garages. Thieves avoid spots where they might be seen.
The Role of Technology in Car Theft
Car companies are fighting back with better security. By 2025, many new cars come with fingerprint scanners or facial recognition to start the engine. Tesla has added “Pin to Drive,” which requires a code before the car moves. However, hackers are always finding new ways to break in. In 2024, a group in Europe used software to trick electric cars into unlocking. This shows that even high-tech cars are not safe. Drivers need to stay updated on the latest theft methods and security updates.
Are Older Cars Safer?
You might think older cars are safer because they’re less high-tech, but that’s not true. Older models are often stolen more because they lack alarms, GPS, or engine immobilizers. For example, a 2004 Toyota Corolla is stolen twice as often as a 2023 Corolla. Thieves know how to break into these cars quickly and quietly.
The Impact on Insurance
Car thefts in 2025 are causing insurance rates to rise. Drivers with high-risk cars, like Hyundais or Kias, are paying up to 30% more for coverage. Some companies now require customers to install anti-theft devices to get a discount.
What’s Next?
Car makers and police are working together to reduce thefts. By 2026, all new cars in the U.S. will need to have anti-hacking software and GPS tracking built in. Until then, drivers should stay alert and use common-sense tips to protect their vehicles.
FAQs
Why are Hyundai and Kia cars still stolen so much in 2025?
Older Hyundai and Kia models lack engine immobilizers, making them easy to steal with basic tools. A TikTok trend in 2021 taught thieves how to do it, and the problem continues.
What’s the best way to stop a keyless car theft?
Use a Faraday pouch to block your key fob’s signal. This stops thieves from copying it with a relay device.
Are electric cars stolen more than gas cars?
Yes and no. Electric cars are targeted for their expensive batteries, but gas cars are still stolen more overall because there are more of them on the road.