Top Models of Stolen Cars: Chevrolet Camaro, Acura LTX, GMC Sierra, and Silverado Lead the List
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has become the most stolen vehicle in the United States, according to a recent analysis by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI). This high-performance muscle car, with its powerful engine and attractive value, has seen a whole-vehicle theft rate 39 times higher than the average.
The key factor behind this spike in thefts is a software vulnerability in the keyless ignition system of 2016-2024 Camaro models. Thieves exploit this loophole by cloning the key fob's code through the car's onboard diagnostics (OBD) port, even when the key fob is not in the vehicle. This on-board port access allows the vehicle to be started and stolen without the original key, significantly increasing theft risk.
General Motors has acknowledged this issue and launched a service campaign in March 2025, offering a free software update at dealerships for Camaro owners. This update is intended to patch the vulnerability and help reduce theft incidents.
Interestingly, eight out of the 20 least-stolen models are fully electric, and two more are plug-in hybrids. These vehicles tend to be parked securely near charging infrastructure, making them less attractive to thieves. On the other hand, the standard Camaro and the Camaro ZL1 have higher than average theft rates, with the standard model having a rate over 13 times the norm.
The surge in Camaro thefts began in 2023, particularly for models built from 2016 onward. This coincides with the introduction of a keyless push-button start system, which has made the vehicles more susceptible to theft via electronic means.
In response, Hyundai and Kia launched a software upgrade initiative in early 2023, adding immobilizer-like protection to vulnerable models. Vehicles from these manufacturers that received the update saw a 46% reduction in overall theft claims and a 52% drop in whole-vehicle thefts.
Car manufacturers must balance performance and protection, as vehicles like the Camaro ZL1 are highly targeted by thieves. It's crucial for manufacturers to address these vulnerabilities to protect their customers and maintain the integrity of their brands.
California has the highest Camaro theft rate among states, followed by Tennessee, Mississippi, Maryland, and Texas. As of the end of 2024, only about 40% of eligible Hyundai and Kia vehicles had received the update.
In conclusion, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1's status as the most stolen vehicle in America is a reminder of the importance of balancing performance and protection in vehicle design. Manufacturers must be vigilant in addressing software vulnerabilities to protect their customers and maintain their reputation.
[1] Highway Loss Data Institute, "Camaro theft rate spikes after 2016 model year", 2023. [2] Consumer Reports, "Chevy Camaro ZL1 tops list of stolen cars", 2024. [3] Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, "Camaro ZL1 theft rate: A case study", 2025.
- The software vulnerability in the keyless ignition system of certain Chevrolet Camaro models, particularly those from the 2016 to 2024 model years, is responsible for a significant increase in theft incidents, as thieves can exploit this loophole to clone the key fob's code through the car's onboard diagnostics (OBD) port.
- In an attempt to address this issue, General Motors launched a service campaign in March 2025, offering a free software update at dealerships for Camaro owners to help reduce theft incidents.
- Unlike the Camaro, eight out of the 20 least-stolen models are fully electric, and two more are plug-in hybrids, suggesting that these vehicles tend to be parked securely near charging infrastructure, making them less attractive to thieves.
- Car manufacturers must strive to balance performance and protection in their vehicles, as high-performance models like the Camaro ZL1 are highly targeted by thieves, and it's crucial for manufacturers to address software vulnerabilities to protect their customers and maintain their reputation in the automotive industry, finance, transportation, and lifestyle sectors.
