This automobile holds a propensity for theft that is nearly 39 times greater than that of other vehicles on the road.
Headline: Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Topping the List of Most Stolen Cars in the US
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has been identified as the most frequently stolen car in the United States, relative to its population on the road. This powerful muscle car, with its 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine delivering 650 horsepower, is attracting the attention of thieves due to its high performance, desirability, and exotic nature [1][2][4][5].
The sixth generation of the Camaro, released in 2016, saw a significant increase in theft-loss, particularly for the ZL1 model. One of the reasons for this rise could be the push-button start system introduced with the 2016 model year. However, a more concerning factor is a technical vulnerability in newer models (2020-2024) that allows thieves to clone the key code by accessing the car's onboard ports inside the vehicle [1][3]. General Motors has issued a free software update campaign to help reduce this risk, but the problem remains a significant factor in the high theft rates.
The Camaro ZL1 is not alone in this regard. The Acura TLX and GM pickup trucks are also among the cars with a high risk of theft. Interestingly, the standard Camaro ranks third on the list of most-stolen cars in the US, with a whole-vehicle theft rate 13 times as high as the average [1][2][3][4][5].
Researchers have published a comprehensive paper detailing the history of Camaros disappearing over the last few years [6]. The theft claim frequencies for sixth-gen Camaro variants increased sharply starting from 2023 and continued through much of 2024.
In contrast, Kias and Hyundais, which were previously easy to steal with a USB cable, have finally received updates to get them off thieves' radar [1].
As car owners, it's crucial to remain vigilant, especially if you own a Camaro, Acura TLX, or GM pickup truck. Installing an anti-theft device and keeping your vehicle secure can help protect it from thieves.
- Despite its high fuel economy and integration with modern lifestyle, the increased technology in cars like the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, particularly the push-button start system and onboard ports, have made it a prime target for car thieves, leading it to top the list of most stolen cars in the US.
- While previously overlooked due to ease of theft with a USB cable, Kias and Hyundais have recently implemented updates to reduce their attractiveness to thieves, showcasing how general-news and technology trends can affect car-related crime-and-justice issues.
- In the face of rising car thefts, especially of cars such as the Camaro ZL1, it is essential for car owners to prioritize their vehicles' security by installing anti-theft devices and taking other necessary precautions to protect their investments.
