Top 5 stolen vehicles in Houston
FOX 26 reporter Matthew Seedorff spoke with the Houston Police Department about the data showing the top 5 most stolen vehicles in Houston. The list may surprise you!
HOUSTON – New data shared by the Houston Police Department reveals the top vehicles targeted by thieves so far this year.
“It’s a problem, but it’s a preventable problem,” said Sgt. Tracy Hicks of the HPD Auto Theft Crime Task Force.
TIP: A Texas woman prays for healing after lightning kills her son and leaves her grandson in a coma
In 2022, there were nearly 18,000 vehicles reported to HPD as stolen within the Houston city limits. According to their most recent data, approximately 53 cars are stolen per day on average in Houston.
“We as citizens need to toughen up our targets,” said Sgt. Hicks. “We have to make it harder [criminals]. Just make it tougher with layers of protection.”
Historically, trucks are the most commonly taken by thieves in Houston. However, in April there was a new trend. According to Houston police, two Hyundai car models appeared in the top five most stolen vehicles in April. Also, the Kia Optima and Soul were in the top 10.
Top 5 stolen vehicles in Houston during April:
*Source – HPD
- Chevrolet Silverado – 187
- GMC Sierra 1500-105
- Hyundai Elantra – 72
- Hyundai Sonata-51
- Ford F-150 – 39
Police believe a relatively new TikTok trend featuring Kia cars could be to blame for the recent spike in thefts.
“You had four of those in the top 10, which also beat the Ford and Dodge trucks,” said Sgt. Hicks. “Which is worrying.”
According to Sgt. Hicks, KIA and Hyundai owners could be eligible for anti-theft software updates. For drivers concerned with KIA cars, click HERE and Hyundai cars, click HERE.
DOWNLOAD THE FOX 26 HOUSTON APP BY CLICKING HERE
Sgt. Hicks says they are also seeing an increase in the number of stolen Corvettes and Jeeps in Houston. Authorities recommend purchasing alarms with an electronic kill switch, tracking device, vibration and glass break sensors.
“Go buy an aftermarket alarm,” said Sgt. Hicks. “Make sure your alarm has a tracker.”
For those shopping for a used car, Sgt. Hicks recommends removing the actual key from an electric fob. If the vehicle is stolen, it is likely that the key will not work in the car doors.
“When you buy a used vehicle, you take the key out,” said Sgt. Hicks. “If this truck is stolen, the key probably won’t be cut and it won’t work in the door.”
Right now, Sgt. Hicks believes Houston is on track to reach 19,500 to 20,000 stolen vehicles by 2023.
