Critical Information of Vehicle Theft

All types of vehicles - automobiles, motorcycles and commercial equipment - are at risk for theft. LoJack has collected information from a variety of well-respected sources to help you learn about all types of vehicle theft. For those wishing to do more in depth research, we have provided links to key sites.

Questions regarding vehicle theft protection and prevention tips can be directed to theftexperts@lojack.com.

Motor Vehicle Theft

43 percent of vehicles stolen in 2008 (latest FBI data) were never recovered, amounting to 411,444 stolen cars and trucks not returned to their rightful owners.

How does your city rank for theft?

Check Out These Vehicle Theft Statistics:

Federal Bureau of Investigation Statistics (2008):

• Nearly one million vehicles were reported stolen in 2008
• In U.S., one vehicle stolen every 33 seconds
• The rate of stolen vehicles not recovered is currently at a 20+ year high (43%)
• Estimated total value of vehicles stolen nationwide is over $6.4 billion

2009 Top Makes and Models Stolen and Recovered in U.S. (Released 02/10)

1. Honda Civic
2. Honda Accord
3. Toyota Camry
4. Acura Integra
5. Cadillac Escalade
6. Toyota Corolla
7. Chevrolet Tahoe
8. NIssan Altima
9. Chevrolet Silverado
10. Ford F-250 Series

• Thieves choose these vehicles because of the huge profit potential when the cars are stripped down to their components, which then supply a vast black market for stolen parts
• Popularity of mini vans, pickups, trucks, and sport utility vehicles is making them an increasingly attractive target for thieves
• Vehicle theft is the costliest property crime in the U.S., costing consumers more than $8.6 billion annually
• Nearly 40% of all vehicle thefts occur in or near ports or border communities

For 2009 the states with the most stolen and recovered vehicles were: (Released 2/10)

1. California
2. Texas
3. Florida
4. New York
5. Massachusetts
6. New Jersey
7. Arizona
8. Maryland
9. Nevada
10. Georgia

• More than 56,000 motorcycle reported stolen in 2009 representing a loss of more than $370 million
• In U.S., more than 6 motorcycles are stolen every hour 
• Typical recovery rate of motorcycles is only 25-30%

For 2009, the five states with the highest motorcycle theft rates are: (Released 4/10)

1. California (6,273)
2. Texas (5,526)
3. Florida (5,009)
4. North Carolina (3,045)
5. Georgia (2,067)

For 2009, the most stolen motorcycles are:

1. Honda
2. Yamaha
3. Suzuki
4. Kawasaki
5. Harley-Davidson

2009 Motorcycle Thefts by State

Construction Theft

The criminal world has discovered a lucrative and growing market: heavy construction equipment. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, close to $1 billion a year is lost nationwide due to the theft of construction equipment and tools.