Honda Civic, Accord Top 2008 List of Most Stolen Cars

The 1995 Honda Civic was the car stolen the most in 2007, according to “Hot Wheels 2008,” an annual study from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). According to the 2008 report of cars stolen in 2007, older model vehicles are a target for thieves because they provide the best market for stolen vehicle parts.

On a positive note, FBI preliminary Uniform Crime Report (UCR) data shows that motor vehicle theft is headed for an 8.9 percent decrease in 2007.

To protect their investment, NICB recommends vehicle owners follow a “layered approach” to auto theft prevention:

Common Sense: Use the locks and anti-theft devices that are standard on all vehicles. Lock your car and take your keys.

Warning Device: Use a visible or audible warning device.

Immobilizing Device: “Kill” switches, fuel cut-offs and smart keys are extremely effective. Usually, if a car won’t start, it won’t get stolen.

Tracking Device: Global positioning systems (GPS) and radio frequency technology can be used track and recover vehicles.

VINCheck: This service includes information on vehicles that have been declared “total losses” by participating NICB member insurance companies.