Introduction: Vehicle Theft Is on the Rise
Vehicle theft is no longer just about hot-wiring a car and driving off. In recent years, there's been a surge in auto-related crimes targeting specific vehicle components — with wheels and tires among the most lucrative targets. In fact, many stolen vehicle reports today are tied not just to full car thefts but to parts theft, particularly high-value wheels and rims.
Brands like Honda, Kia, and Ford dominate the list of the most stolen vehicles in the U.S. year after year. Their popularity and widespread use make them prime targets for thieves looking to make quick profits — often by stripping parts rather than taking the entire car.
This blog post breaks down the top 15 vehicles most commonly stolen in the United States and explores how locking wheels — like Honda wheel locks — can help protect your car and reduce your risk.
Top 15 Most Stolen Vehicles in the US (Based on Latest Data)
Every year, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) releases a list of the most stolen vehicles in the United States. These rankings are based on police reports and insurance claims — and the patterns are clear: thieves target high-demand, easy-to-resell models. Below are the most recent rankings of stolen vehicles, along with insight into why each is a prime target:
Top 15 Most Stolen Vehicles (U.S.)
- Honda Civic
- Honda Accord
- Ford F-150
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Toyota Camry
- Nissan Altima
- Hyundai Elantra
- Kia Optima
- Dodge Charger
- Toyota Corolla
- GMC Sierra
- Ford Explorer
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Kia Forte
- Chevrolet Malibu
Why These Vehicles?
- Honda and Ford models have remained on this list for years due to their widespread ownership and interchangeable parts, making them valuable for chop shops.
- Kia and Hyundai vehicles have recently surged in thefts, partly due to security vulnerabilities that went viral online.
- Trucks like the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado are often targeted for their wheels, suspension parts, and catalytic converters.
What many drivers don’t realize is that not all vehicle theft involves driving away. In many cases, thieves are targeting specific high-value parts — especially wheels and tires — and that’s where tools to enable locking wheels can play a critical role in prevention.
Why These Vehicles Are Prime Targets
You might wonder: why do certain vehicles keep topping the stolen car lists year after year? While some thefts involve high-tech methods to start and drive off with a vehicle, many others focus on something much simpler — valuable parts that can be removed and resold in minutes.
Popular = Profitable
Vehicles like the Honda Civic, Ford F-150, and Kia Optima are not only popular with drivers — they’re also popular with thieves. The reason is simple: the more common a car is, the more demand there is for its replacement parts. Wheels, tires, and rims from these vehicles can be sold quickly and anonymously online, often with no trace back to the original theft.
Wheel Theft is Fast and Low Risk
While stealing an entire car may take time and effort — not to mention risk — wheel theft is fast, quiet, and easy, especially without proper protection like locking wheels. A skilled thief with a jack and power tool can remove all four wheels in under 10 minutes. Many theft victims walk out in the morning to find their car sitting on bricks, rims gone, and thousands of dollars in damages.
Older Models Are Vulnerable
Older models, especially from Honda, Kia, and Ford, often lack the sophisticated anti-theft technology found in newer vehicles. That makes them even more appealing to thieves, who look for easy opportunities with minimal resistance.
If you drive one of these commonly stolen vehicles, especially an older model, adding locking lug nuts or wheel locks is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to add a layer of protection.
The Overlooked Problem: Wheel Theft
When most people think about vehicle theft, they imagine someone driving off in their car. But there's another kind of theft that’s growing fast — and often overlooked until it happens to you: wheel theft.
What Makes Wheels a Prime Target?
Wheels, tires, and rims are high-value parts that can be quickly removed and sold for a profit. Aftermarket wheels can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars, and even stock wheels from brands like Honda, Kia, and Ford are in constant demand on the resale market. Thieves know this — and they know exactly which models to look for.
How It Happens
- Thieves target cars in dark, unattended areas — apartment complexes, street parking, even driveways.
- They use portable jacks and impact wrenches to lift the vehicle and remove all four wheels within minutes.
- In many cases, the car is left sitting on cinder blocks or bricks, causing additional damage to suspension components and body panels.
The worst part? Most victims don’t hear a thing. Wheel theft is silent, fast, and rarely caught on camera — making it one of the easiest types of auto-related crimes to get away with.
The Brands Most Affected
- Honda Civics and Accords are particularly vulnerable due to the popularity of their wheels among enthusiasts and parts buyers.
- Kia vehicles, especially models with upgraded trim packages, are also targeted for their sport-style rims.
- Ford trucks and SUVs, such as the F-150 and Explorer, are targeted for their larger wheels, which are often resold or used on lifted trucks.
As wheel theft becomes more common, vehicle owners are turning to locking wheels as a basic but highly effective deterrent.
Locking Wheels: How They Help Protect Your Vehicle
When it comes to preventing wheel theft, one of the simplest and most effective solutions is installing wheel locks or locking lug nuts. These inexpensive devices can make a big difference by stopping thieves in their tracks.
What Are Locking Wheels?
Locking wheels typically involve replacing one standard lug nut on each wheel with a uniquely patterned locking nut. This nut can only be removed with a matching ‘key; that comes with the lock set. However, wheel ‘locks’ didn’t actually lock – until Lock Horns came around with ‘Wheel Locks… that Actually Lock’.
Visual Deterrence Matters
Many criminals check for wheel locks before committing a theft. If they spot a locking wheel nut — especially one that's visibly different from the others — they’ll often move on to the next vehicle.
Compatible With Most Major Brands
Whether you drive a Honda, Kia, or Ford, there are OEM and aftermarket locking wheel kits designed to fit your car.
Investing in a quality set of locking wheels is a small price to pay compared to the cost of replacing a full set of rims and tires.
Spotlight on Honda Wheel Locks
If you drive a Honda, you’re likely familiar with the brand’s reputation for reliability — but unfortunately, Hondas are also among the most frequently stolen vehicles in the US. Because of their popularity, Hondas, especially models like the Civic and Accord, are common targets for both full theft and wheel theft.
Why Honda Wheel Locks Matter
- High Demand for Honda Wheels: Honda wheels are sought after by thieves due to their style, durability, and resale value. Aftermarket modifications are also popular among Honda enthusiasts, making original wheels even more valuable.
- OEM vs. Aftermarket Options: Honda offers genuine Honda wheel locks as part of their accessories lineup, designed specifically to fit factory wheel lug nuts with the correct threading and fitment.
- Thread Size and Fitment: Many Honda vehicles use standard lug nuts with a thread size like M12x1.5, but should check their vehicles’ owner’s manual for their specific size.
Tips for Ford and Kia Owners
While Honda vehicles often get a lot of attention for theft prevention, owners of Ford and Kia vehicles face similar risks — and can take equally effective steps to protect their wheels.
Ford: Heavy-Duty Protection for Trucks and SUVs
Ford trucks like the F-150 and SUVs such as the Explorer are popular targets for wheel thieves because of their larger, more expensive rims. Here’s how Ford owners can protect their wheels:
- Use OEM or Aftermarket Locking Lug Nuts: Ford offers locking wheel nuts designed to fit specific models and rim sizes, ensuring a secure fit.
- Heavy-Duty Locks for Larger Wheels: Because truck wheels are larger and heavier, look for robust locking wheels made from durable materials like hardened steel.
- Regular Inspection: Make sure locking nuts are securely tightened after tire changes or repairs to maintain maximum protection.
- Combine Security Measures: Pair locking wheels with other anti-theft tools like alarm systems and GPS tracking for layered security.
Kia: Combating the Recent Rise in Theft
Kia vehicles, particularly popular models like the Forte, Soul, and Optima, have seen a recent spike in thefts due to electronic vulnerabilities and desirable parts resale value.
- Install Locking Wheel Kits: Universal or model-specific locking wheels are available to fit Kia vehicles, helping to deter quick wheel theft.
- Update Security Systems: Consider upgrading factory alarms and immobilizers to help reduce full-vehicle theft risks.
- Park Strategically: Choose well-lit, monitored areas for parking to reduce opportunities for thieves.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local theft trends and community alerts related to Kia vehicles.
By investing in locking wheels and maintaining overall vehicle security, both Ford and Kia owners can greatly reduce the chances of falling victim to wheel theft.
Bonus: Additional Vehicle Theft Prevention Tips
1. Park Smart
- Choose well-lit, busy areas or secure garages whenever possible.
- Avoid leaving your vehicle in isolated or dark spots where thieves can work unnoticed.
2. Use Alarms and Immobilizers
- Upgrade your factory alarm system to one with shock sensors and motion detection.
- Consider immobilizers that prevent the engine from starting without the proper key.
3. Install Dash Cams with Parking Mode
- Dash cams with motion-activated recording can capture footage of suspicious activity.
- This footage may help police identify thieves and deter future attempts.
4. Consider GPS Tracking
- GPS trackers allow you to monitor your vehicle’s location in real-time.
- In the event of theft, a tracker can speed up recovery.
5. Protect Other Vulnerable Parts
- Catalytic converters and aftermarket accessories are also theft targets.
- Use protective covers and alarms to secure these components.
6. Regularly Check Your Wheel Locks
- Make sure your Honda wheel locks or other locking lug nuts are tight and undamaged.
- After tire changes or repairs, verify locks are reinstalled correctly.
By layering these precautions alongside locking wheels, you’re making your vehicle a much less attractive target for thieves.
Conclusion: Protect Your Ride Before It’s Too Late
Car theft remains a serious issue in the US, with popular models from Honda, Kia, and Ford topping the list of the most stolen vehicles year after year. Beyond the risk of losing your entire vehicle, wheel theft is an often-overlooked threat that can cause costly damage and inconvenience.
Fortunately, protecting your vehicle doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
Don’t wait until you’re the next victim — check if your vehicle supports wheel locks and invest in the peace of mind that comes with better security. Your car (and your wallet) will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the most stolen cars in the US right now?
The most stolen vehicles often include popular models like the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Ford F-150, Kia Optima, and Chevrolet Silverado. These vehicles are targeted due to their widespread use and high demand for parts.
Q2: How do locking wheels help prevent theft?
Locking wheels replace one lug nut on each wheel with a unique lock that requires a special key to remove. This added security makes it much harder and slower for thieves to steal your wheels, often deterring theft attempts altogether.
Q3: Why are Kia cars often targeted for theft?
Kia vehicles have seen a recent spike in thefts due to electronic vulnerabilities and the high resale value of parts like wheels and rims. Using wheel locks and upgrading security systems can help reduce this risk.