Vehicle theft is a growing concern across the United States, with New Mexico and Texas among the states experiencing high rates of auto theft. Law enforcement agencies and insurance companies track stolen vehicle trends to help residents take preventive measures.
If you live in these states, knowing which cars are targeted most by thieves can help you protect your vehicle.
The Most Stolen Vehicles in New Mexico
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), New Mexico consistently ranks among the top states for car theft. The most frequently stolen vehicles in the state include:
- Chevrolet Silverado – This full-size pickup truck is a favorite among thieves due to its high resale value and availability of parts.
- Ford F-150 – Another popular truck, the Ford F-150 is targeted for similar reasons, with criminals often stripping it for valuable components.
- Honda Civic – Known for its reliability, the Civic is commonly stolen because older models lack advanced security features.
- Honda Accord – Like the Civic, the Accord remains a high-theft vehicle due to demand for replacement parts.
- Toyota Camry – A frequently stolen sedan due to its long-lasting engine and easy-to-sell components.
The Most Stolen Vehicles in Texas
Texas, being a larger state with more vehicles on the road, also experiences high car theft rates. The most stolen vehicles in Texas include:
- Chevrolet Silverado – Just as in New Mexico, this truck tops the list in Texas as well.
- Ford F-150 – The best-selling vehicle in the country is also a top target for criminals.
- Dodge Ram – With its popularity among drivers, the Ram pickup is frequently stolen for resale or parts.
- GMC Sierra – This truck is often targeted due to its high value and interchangeable components with other GM vehicles.
- Nissan Altima – A favorite among criminals because of its resale demand and ease of theft.
Why Are These Vehicles Stolen So Often?
Several factors contribute to the frequent theft of these specific models:
- High Resale Value – Popular models fetch high prices on the black market.
- Interchangeable Parts – Stolen vehicles are often dismantled and sold for parts.
- Lack of Advanced Security Features – Older models are particularly vulnerable due to outdated security systems.
- High Demand – Vehicles that are commonly used for work and transportation are prime targets.
How to Protect Your Vehicle
While no security measure is foolproof, taking the following precautions can reduce the likelihood of your car being stolen:
- Always Lock Your Doors – Even if you’re stepping away for a short moment, always secure your vehicle.
- Park in Well-Lit Areas – Thieves prefer working in the dark, so parking under streetlights or in monitored lots helps deter crime.
- Install a Car Alarm – Audible alarms can scare off potential thieves and alert nearby people.
- Use a Steering Wheel Lock – A visible deterrent makes it harder for thieves to drive away with your car.
- Consider a GPS Tracker – If your car is stolen, a tracking device can help law enforcement recover it faster.
What to Do If Your Car Is Stolen
If you become a victim of auto theft, follow these steps immediately:
- Contact Law Enforcement – File a police report with all relevant details, including your vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number.
- Notify Your Insurance Company – Reporting the theft promptly can help speed up the claims process.
- Check Surveillance Cameras – If your car was stolen near businesses or parking garages, video footage may provide clues.
- Monitor Online Listings – Stolen vehicles and parts sometimes appear on classified websites.
- Use Vehicle Recovery Systems – If your car has GPS tracking, share the location data with the authorities.
Conclusion
Vehicle theft remains a serious issue in New Mexico and Texas, with trucks and sedans topping the list of stolen vehicles. Awareness and proactive measures can help residents protect their property and reduce the risk of theft.
By staying vigilant and using security enhancements, car owners can make it more difficult for thieves to succeed.
For more information on vehicle theft prevention, visit the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
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