The Most Stolen Car Models in Illinois and How to Avoid Buying One

If you’re cruising the car market, here’s the twist: some rides are more irresistible to thieves than others. Car theft is a growing concern for Illinois residents, especially for those in bustling urban areas like Chicago. Knowing which cars are stolen (and which models are often stolen) can help you make better choices. Stay one step ahead by learning the facts and protecting yourself. Check out our guide and make your next car purchase smarter and safer with Illinois license plate number lookup!

Here we cover the most stolen car models in Illinois, why they’re targeted, and how to avoid stolen cars.

Most Stolen Car Models in Illinois

The NICB reports that these car models were among the most stolen in Illinois in 2023:

Image	Rank	Make/Model	Total Theft Incidents
	1	Hyundai Elantra	3,052
	2	Hyundai Sonata	2,080
	3	Kia Optima	1,436
	4	Jeep Grand Cherokee	1,311
	5	Kia Forte	1,119
	6	Kia Sportage	1,116
	7	Kia Soul	1,112
	8	Hyundai Tucson	926
	9	Dodge Charger	739
	10	Infiniti Q50	704

Theft of Hyundai and Kia cars has gone up, with reports rising by up to 1,000% since 2020. The rise is partly due to people sharing how-to videos on social media, showing how to exploit weaknesses in these cars.

These cars are also targeted because they’re popular, their parts are in high demand, and they’re easier to steal. Older models, especially those without modern anti-theft systems, are even more at risk.

Why Are These Cars Targeted?

• Popularity: Many of these models are best-sellers, ensuring a high demand for parts on the black market.
• Ease of Theft: Older models often lack modern anti-theft technology, making them easier to steal.
• Parts Demand: Thieves often strip stolen vehicles for parts that are expensive to buy new.
• Resale Value: Certain vehicles are easily resold, especially in regions where they are highly sought after.
• Uniformity: Common models have interchangeable parts, increasing their value to thieves.
• Neglected Security: Popular models are often owned in bulk by people who may not invest in additional theft-prevention measures.
• Export Demand: Some vehicles are in high demand overseas, where they can be resold for a premium.
• High Performance: Sports cars or high-performance models are targeted for joyrides or illegal racing.
• Chop Shops: Vehicles that are easily disassembled are prime targets for being sold to chop shops.
• Vulnerable Technology: Cars with outdated or easily bypassed security systems are more likely to be targeted by thieves looking for quick access.

The Importance of a License Plate Lookup

Before buying a used car, especially from a private seller, it’s important to make sure the car is legit. One good way to do this is by doing a license plate check. This check can uncover any hidden problems and confirm that the vehicle’s history matches what the seller says.

A comprehensive license plate lookup can reveal:

• Title Issues: Determine signs of salvage or rebuilt title, which could mean it was stolen or badly damaged before.
• Basic Manufacturer Information: Learn about the car’s maker, like the brand, where it’s made, and its history.
• Vehicle Specifications: Get details about the car’s model, engine, size, and other important features.
• Auto Warranty: Check if the car is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty or if extended warranties are available.
• Insurance History: Look into the car’s past insurance claims to see if it’s been in accidents or had damages.
• Sales Timeline: Know the total number of owners and sales locations. 
• Market Value: Find out what the car is worth based on its age, condition, and demand in your area.
• Ownership Costs: Estimate how much it will cost to own the car long-term, including maintenance, fuel, and repairs.
• Recalls and Defects: Check if the car has had any recalls or safety issues reported.
• Theft Incidents: Find out if the car has ever been stolen or linked to theft.
• Liens: See if there are any outstanding financial claims on the car.
• Safety Ratings: Look at the car’s safety ratings, including crash tests and any safety recalls.

Protect yourself by using our Illinois License Plate Number Lookup Tool. A thorough lookup can help you avoid buying a car with hidden problems.

Tips for Avoiding Stolen Vehicles in Private Sales

• Check the VIN: Make sure the car’s VIN matches the one on the title and documents.
• Look for Tampering: Inspect where the VIN is located (dashboard, door frame, engine) for signs it’s been changed.
• Do a License Plate Lookup: Use a reliable tool to check the car’s history for any issues.
• Ask for Proof of Ownership: Request documents like the bill of sale to confirm the seller owns the car.
• Check for Stolen Vehicle Report: Ask an insurance provider or use a VIN-checking service to see if the car is listed as stolen.
• Review the Title: Make sure the title is clean (not salvage or rebuilt), and the seller’s name matches the title.
• Request Maintenance Records: Ask for service records if the seller has them—legitimate sellers often do.
• Meet in a Safe Place: Choose a secure spot like a police station to complete the sale.
• Check Market Value: If the price seems too low, research the car’s value to make sure it’s not stolen.
• Verify Seller’s ID: Ask for a government-issued ID to make sure the seller’s name matches the title.
• Be Careful with Payment: Avoid paying in cash or through untraceable methods without proof.
• Inspect for Odd Signs: Look for unusual wear or mismatched parts that could indicate the car is stolen and altered.

Conclusion

Knowing which cars are likely to be stolen in Illinois can help you make safer choices when car shopping. Using tools like license plate lookups and following safe buying tips for private sales can protect you from troubles. 

Look up car plates with free tools! Use the Illinois free license plate search to uncover critical details about any vehicle you’re considering buying.