Car break-ins and thefts remain a significant concern for drivers across the United States, with certain vehicles, states, and locations more commonly affected than others. This guide explores the latest data on car theft trends, high-risk areas, and effective strategies for preventing vehicle break-ins. These patterns can help drivers take steps to better protect their vehicles and belongings.
Key takeaways
- Hyundai Elantra and Hyundai Sonata are the most commonly stolen vehicles, with 48,445 and 42,813 stolen last year.
- Maryland has seen the highest increase in car thefts since 2022: a 134% increase.
- Residential areas are the most common locations for break-ins: 30% occurred on residential streets, and more than 1 in 4 (28%) happened in residential driveways.
- A car break-in influenced parking habits for 59% of people. After a car break-in, 33% started avoiding parking in certain areas like streets or public lots, 22% started parking in well-lit or high-traffic areas, and 17% began opting for secured parking garages and lots.
- Toyotas (48%) and Hondas (37%) are considered the safest cars.
The most targeted cars for break-ins
Car break-ins and thefts affect drivers nationwide. Learn which cars are most often targeted, the types of damage and theft drivers commonly face, and perceptions of vehicle safety.
Drivers viewed Toyota as the safest brand (48%), followed by Honda (37%) and Subaru (24%). Despite their advanced safety features, luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Lexus were perceived as safer by the fewest respondents, only 9–10%.
The Hyundai Elantra and Hyundai Sonata were the most commonly stolen vehicles last year, with 48,445 and 42,813 thefts, respectively. Among incidents reported by drivers, the most common was stolen personal items, which accounted for 43% of break-ins. Other frequent damages included broken windows (27%), attempted theft (20%), and keyed or scratched exteriors (17%). Broken locks occurred in 12% of cases.
Nearly half of drivers who experienced a car break-in (46%) chose not to report it to their insurance, potentially due to concerns over premiums or the minor scale of the damage. Some drivers have adopted a preventive approach, with 17% intentionally driving older or cheaper cars to reduce their risk of being targeted.
Hotspots for vehicle break-ins
Vehicle break-ins can happen anywhere, but some states and locations are experiencing notable shifts in theft rates and common break-in sites. Here's a closer look at where these incidents are occurring most often and where their frequency is declining.
Maryland reported the most significant increase in car thefts, with a 134% rise since 2022, while Hawaii saw the largest decrease, with thefts dropping by 31%. Residential areas emerged as the most common settings for vehicle break-ins: 30% of incidents occurred on residential streets, while 28% took place in driveways. Together, these numbers emphasize the prevalence of vehicle break-ins close to home.
Protect your ride: Security tips
Drivers take a range of theft prevention measures to protect their vehicles. From adjusting daily habits to using technology, these strategies reflect what drivers believe are the most effective ways to safeguard their cars.
The top three security measures cited by drivers were locking their car at all times (66%), installing a car alarm system (66%), and keeping valuables hidden or out of the car (61%). In addition, 1 in 4 drivers used a home security camera to deter break-ins or theft, while 16% relied on dash cameras as a preventive measure.
Experiencing a car break-in also influenced parking habits for 59% of respondents. Among them, 33% now avoid specific areas such as public lots or streets, 22% park in well-lit or high-traffic locations, and 17% choose secured parking garages or lots to better protect their vehicles.
Stay ahead of car break-ins
Car break-ins and thefts are a frustrating reality for many drivers, but there are ways to stay ahead of the risks. Whether it's choosing a safer parking spot, locking up every time, or hiding valuables out of sight, simple actions can make a big difference. Knowing which cars and areas are most targeted can also help you take smarter steps to keep your vehicle and belongings secure.
