Most Stolen Cars of 2010

If you’ve ever had a vehicle stolen, you share the frustration of more than 700,000 other U.S. residents who experienced vehicle theft in 2010.

Thanks to anti-theft technology coupled with law enforcement deterrence auto vehicle theft declined more than 7 percent between 2009 and 2010. Auto theft remains the most expensive property crime in the United States.

Late-1990s Honda and Toyota vehicles top the list of most stolen cars, a consistent trend since 2000, largely because they are prevalent among drivers. Why are older cars targets for thieves? A couple of reasons: Older cars are less likely to be equipped with an anti-theft device and they can be stripped down for valuable parts.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), in 2010 the most stolen cars in the U.S. were:

1. 1994 Honda Accord
2. 1995 Honda Civic
3. 1991 Toyota Camry
4. 1999 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size)
5. 1997 Ford F150 Series/Pickup
6. 2004 Dodge Ram
7. 2000 Dodge Caravan
8. 1994 Acura Integra
9. 2002 Ford Explorer
10. 1999 Ford Taurus

What can you do to prevent your vehicle from being stolen?

Preventing Vehicle Theft

Here are some basic anti-theft tips:

Always lock the doors.
Never leave your vehicle while the engine is running. It doesn't save you much time, and it's an open invitation for thieves to steal your car.
Take your keys with you. Even a spare key hidden out of sight is a bad idea. The bad guys know all the hiding places.
Roll up your windows all the way. It's amazing what an experienced car thief can do with a sliver of an opening.
Secure your garage. If you park in a garage at home, make sure it's locked down. And never leave your keys in the car.
Hide valuables. Keep your personal belongings out of sight, preferably in the trunk.

For more information about ways to prevent vehicle theft, visit: http://learningcenter.statefarm.com/auto/safety/preventing-car-theft/

Car Theft By State

Although car thieves aren't exactly picky, their targets do vary depending on the state. In Texas, the most stolen vehicle is the 1999 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size), while the top of the list in California is the 1991 Honda Accord. Check out the NICB Hot Wheels Report to find out what makes and models were stolen most in your state.