According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), a non-profit organization, here are a list of the most commonly stolen vehicles in 2009 within the US.

1994 Honda Accord
1995 Honda Civic
1989 Toyota Camry
1997 Ford F150 Series
2004 Dodge Ram Pickup
2000 Dodge Caravan
1996 Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee
1994 Acura Integra
1999 Ford Taurus
2002 Ford Explorer

The NICB recommends using “layers of protection” to protect yourself and safeguard your vehicle from thieves.

Layer 1:  An unlocked vehicle with a key in the ignition is an open invitation to any thief, regardless of which anti-theft device you use.  The common sense approach to protection is the simplest and most cost effective way to avoid potential thieves.

Layer 2:  Visible or audible devices which alert thieves that your vehicle is protected is the second layer of protection.  These could include audible alarms, steering column collars, steering wheel locks, brake locks and wheel locks.

Layer 3:  The third layer is a device that prevents thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot wiring the vehicle.  Some electronic devices have computer chips in ignition keys.  Other devices inhibit the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine until a hidden switch or button is activated.  Some common third layer devices are smart keys, fuse cut offs, kill switches and starter/ignition and fuel disablers.

Layer 4:  The final layer of protection is a tracking device that emits a signal to a police or a monitoring station when the vehicle is reported stolen.  Tracking devices are effective in helping authorities recover the stolen vehicle.

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