A close look at new data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reveals cars are getting harder to steal. Last week, NICB released its list of the top 10 most-stolen vehicles, with the 1994 Honda Accord claiming the top spot.
According to NICB, FBI crime statistics show a 3.3 percent drop in the number of thefts in 2011 from 2010, meaning that last year had the fewest thefts nationally since 1967. Analysts are saying sophisticated anti-theft devices and common sense are credited for the reduction. Moreover, recovery technology is advancing, too.
"While overall thefts continue to decline, we are seeing a trend toward increases in the thefts of late model vehicles - ones that are theoretically harder to steal due to sophisticated key code technology," said NICB president and CEO Joe Wehrle.
The NICB identified the trend in late-model vehicles being stolen most often, likely due to criminals gaining access to key codes, reports the Poughkeepsie Journal.
Common sense measures such as ensuring the car is locked and installing an anti-theft device is suggested to deter theft. Preventing a theft is better than recovering one and having to deal with potential car repair.