In fiscal year 2024, the Illinois Statewide Auto Theft Task Force (ISATT) conducted 1,854 investigations and recovered 1,346 vehicles worth approximately $30 million.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates show approximately one vehicle is stolen every 31 seconds in the United States, which costs vehicle owners more than $8 billion annually.
Here are the top 10 cars vehicles stolen in Illinois
- Hyundai Elantra
- Hyundai Sonata
- Kia Optima
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Kia Forte
- Kia Sportage
- Kia Soul
- Hyundai Tucson
- Dodge Charger
- Infiniti Q50
Here are are few tips to help prevent your vehicle from being stolen:
- Park in well-lit areas.
- Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
- Hide valuables out of sight, such as in the glove box or trunk.
- Do not leave your keys in your vehicle.
- Do not leave the area while your vehicle is running.
- Contact police immediately to file a stolen-vehicle report. Thirty-four percent of recovered stolen vehicles are found on the same day as the theft, and 45 percent are recovered within two days. Reporting the theft to law enforcement also provides a record to show to your insurer.
- Contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours of your vehicle being stolen. You will need a copy of the police report and/or a case number to provide to your insurance company. You may also be asked to provide the following information:
- License plate number;
- Make, model, and color of your vehicle; and
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and any identifying characteristics. (The VIN can be found on your insurance policy documentation or on the proof of insurance card, driver-side of the dashboard under the windshield, or driver-side door or doorjamb.)
- If you find your vehicle before authorities do, contact the police and your insurance company immediately.
- Learn more about reporting stolen vehicles here.
Read more on The Caucus Blog: The Most Stolen Vehicles in Illinois