This is the most stolen car in Arizona. Here’s why

• The Hyundai Elantra is the most stolen car in Arizona and the U.S.
• Hyundais and Kias are often targeted due to a lack of immobilizers.
• Anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks, kill switches, and tracking systems can deter theft.

More than 17,000 vehicles were stolen in Arizona in 2024, officials say.

As motor vehicle theft is the third most common property crime, it’s become clear that some vehicles are more popular among thieves than others.

Online publisher Visual Capitalist recently published a map of the most stolen vehicles in the United States. Nearly half of the states, including Arizona and neighboring Nevada and Colorado, have the same most stolen car, truck or SUV.

Here’s which model is most frequently stolen in Arizona, why it’s popular among car thieves and what you can do to protect your vehicle from theft.

The most stolen car in Arizona

Based on a FinanceBuzz review of National Insurance Crime Bureau data, the Hyundai Elantra is the most stolen car in Arizona. This compact car model, which is known for its fuel efficiency and affordability, is also the No. 1 most stolen car in the U.S., with nearly 32,000 stolen in 2025.

Hyundai’s other popular model, the Sonata, comes in at the second most stolen car in the U.S. So, why are car thieves targeting Hyundais?

According to Capital One’s Auto Navigator blog, Hyundai and Kia cars are relatively easy to steal because they lack an “immobilizer,” which is an anti-theft device that prevents a car from starting when the key fob doesn’t match the vehicle.

“This means that thieves can simply break into the vehicle, remove the steering column cover, jam a makeshift key into the ignition cylinder, and start the car,” the site said.

The Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions began tracking where in Arizona Hyundai and Kia vehicles are being stolen and found the issue is widespread across metro Phoenix and Tucson.

So, what can Arizonans do if they own a car that’s popular among car thieves?

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How to prevent your car from being stolen in Arizona

Thanks to modern technological innovations, there are several ways to deter or prevent auto theft entirely. Some vehicles come standard with anti-theft systems and tech like engine immobilizers. There’s also aftermarket devices and tech drivers can add to their vehicles, including trackers and more.

Types of anti-theft systems

• Ignition cut-off
• Automatic passive alarms
• Tracking signals
• Steering wheel lock

Though anti-theft systems like a steering wheel lock may seem antiquated, this type of system is one way to ensure that no one can operate your vehicle using your steering wheel without the key to the lock. You can use Apple AirTags and other tracking devices/apps to keep tabs on your vehicle at all times.

Geico also recommends keeping your vehicle title outside of the vehicle in the event that it is stolen. Anti-theft systems may not seem like a necessity, but they can make a huge difference in preventing vehicle theft. They’re especially recommended if you don’t have a way to surveil your vehicle when it’s parked near your home.

What to do if your car is stolen in Arizona

The quicker you report your car stolen, the better your chances are of recovering it, according to AAA.com. Roughly 80% of stolen vehicles are recovered within the first two days of the theft. So, if your car is stolen in Tennessee, the first step you should take is to report the theft to the authorities.

After contacting the authorities, the next step is to contact your auto insurance provider. If you have comprehensive insurance, the theft may be covered by your policy.

Getting your car stolen is a horrible experience, but there are ways to deter theft and steps to follow if your vehicle is stolen. Anti-theft technology may have evolved over the years, but so have car thieves, so remain vigilant and prepared to prevent auto theft.

Arizona Republic reporter Shelby Slade contributed to this article.