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Thanks to advancements in technology, auto thefts are generally downward. However, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) puts out its Hot Wheels list of the most stolen cars every year with the same vehicles topping the list. The agency released its data for 2015, and some of the vehicles on the list are surprising.
In addition to the list, the NICB gives advice in the form of the agency’s four “Layers of Protection” to limit the amount of car thefts, which include:
Common Sense: Lock your car and take your keys. It’s simple enough, but many thefts occur because owners make it easy for thieves to steal their cars.
Warning Device: Having and using a visible or audible warning device is another item that can ensure that your car remains where you left it.
Immobilizing Device: Generally speaking, if your vehicle can’t be started, it can’t be stolen. “Kill” switches, fuel cut-offs and smart keys are among the devices that are extremely effective.
Tracking Device: A tracking device emits a signal to the police or to a monitoring station when the vehicle is stolen. Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles. Some systems employ “telematics,” which combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring of a vehicle. If the vehicle is moved, the system will alert the owner and the vehicle can be tracked via computer.
If you have one of these cars, looking into an extra form of security would be a good idea.
10. 2008 Chevrolet Impala (9,225)
With a total of 9,225 vehicles stolen last year, the 2008 Chevrolet Impala ranks 10th on the list. The ninth generation of the Impala, which was sold from 2006 to 2013, may have been classified as a mid-size sedan, but was easily larger than the majority of its competitors. The SS model boasted a 5.3-liter V8 engine that made the sedan a serious sleeper when it came out. Despite having OnStar as standard in 2008, the Impala accounted for an alarming number of thefts in 2015.
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