Video: The 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport hybrid surprised me off-road.
Rugged looking compact SUV adds outdoorsy appeal to Honda’s top-selling model.
In 2024, more than 850,000 vehicles were stolen in the United States, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Motor vehicle theft is the third most common property crime. 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. While the Hyundai Elantra is the most stolen vehicle in 21 American states – and more than 31,000 thefts reported in 2024 – here’s the most stolen vehicle in New York, according to the list.
What’s the most stolen car in New York?
Based on a FinanceBuzz review of National Insurance Crime Bureau data, the Honda CR-V is the most stolen car in New York. The compact SUV did not crack the agency’s top 10 list of most stolen car models in the nation. New York was the only state to list the CR-V as the most stolen vehicle.
According to an article from MSN, thieves have figured out how to easily break into these SUVs without setting off their alarms. The White Plains Public Safety earlier this year noted that 2024 and 2025 models were being targeted while parked in commuter lots. Police also shared that they believed thieves used a reprogramming tool to create new keyfobs. This process is different from cloning the keyfob signal as a vehicle is parked outside a home.
A Scripps News article notes that thieves often target older model CR-Vs since the SUV’s anti-theft system is less advanced. According to RoadTrack, the Honda CR-V was the bestselling and most popular vehicle in 13 states – including New York – in a 2025 report from Experian.
How to prevent your car from being stolen in New York
Thanks to modern technology, there are several ways to deter or prevent auto theft entirely. Some vehicles come standard with anti-theft systems and tech like engine immobilizers. A vehicle owner can also purchase aftermarket devices and tech to add to a vehicle, such as a tracking device.
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
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 New York, the first move you should make is to report the theft to the authorities. After contacting law enforcement, contact your auto insurance provider. If you have comprehensive insurance, the theft may be covered by your policy.
Becoming the victim of a car theft is a stressful 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. Remain vigilant and prepared to prevent auto theft.
Includes reporting by the USA Today network