The Hardest Cars to Steal in 2024: Protecting Your Precious Ride

https://www.findthebestcarprice.com/author-michael-collado

Michael Collado

Michael Collado

Michael Collado is a car buying expert and has been a professional automotive writer since 2009.  He’s written about dealership sales, vehicle reviews and comparisons, and service and maintenance for over 100 national automotive dealerships.  Previously, Collado was a copywriter at the ad agency TBWA/Chiat/Day where he worked on brand campaigns for Nissan, ABC Television, Sony PlayStation, and Energizer. His recognition in the ad industry includes awards from Communication Arts and The Clios.

Collado has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, with a major in Psychology and a minor in Marketing.

Fortress on Wheels: The Unyielding Security of 2024's Toughest Cars to Steal

Today, car theft has become an intricate task for criminals, as automakers employ sophisticated anti-theft systems to safeguard their vehicles.

Before you shop for your next vehicle, take a comprehensive look at the hardest vehicles to steal in 2024.

Key Takeaways

• Tesla Model Y, BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz GLE Series, Audi A4, and Nissan Leaf are the hardest cars to steal in 2024
• Anti-theft features including keyless entry and GPS tracking systems make new cars tougher for thieves to steal
• The Honda Civic and Honda Accord were the most stolen vehicles last year

The Hardest Cars to Steal

1. Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is one of the most advanced vehicles on the road today and the best-selling Tesla on the market. With its keyless entry system, built-in GPS tracking feature, and continuous wireless communication with Tesla servers, the Model Y leaves little room for thieves to exploit.

The car's biometric authentication feature ensures that only authorized drivers can operate the vehicle, making it extremely challenging for unauthorized access.

Another notable feature in the Model Y is Sentry Mode, which uses the car’s sensors and camera system to record activity when it detects that something sketchy may be happening to or around the vehicle.

2. BMW 7 Series

The large-sized BMW is known for its innovative security features.

With a sophisticated engine immobilizer system, keyless ignition, and an encrypted key fob, this luxury sedan is incredibly difficult to hotwire or steal through electronic means.

The car's central locking system ensures that physical entry into the vehicle is nearly impossible without the original key.

Current BMW 7 Series Deals & Incentives

You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's BMW deals and average prices paid.

3. Mercedes-Benz GLE Series

The Mercedes-Benz GLE series is another line of cars that has some serious anti-theft features.

Some of these features include an anti-theft alarm system with a loud alarm siren, interior monitoring, and tow-away protection to ensure your Benz never gets stolen.

The car even comes in an armored version complete with bulletproof glass, offering drivers Presidential-level security.

Current Mercedes-Benz S-Class Deals & Incentives

You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Mercedes-Benz deals.

4. Audi A4

Not only known for its amazing style, the Audi's A4 model incorporates a highly secure keyless entry system that utilizes rolling codes, making it nearly impossible for thieves to intercept and replicate the key fob's signals.

The car's "Pure Protection" immobilizer system is encrypted, preventing any bypass attempts. Plus, the Audi A4 is more of a niche luxury vehicle and not as attractive to car thieves.

Current Audi A4 Deals & Incentives

You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Audi deals.

5. Nissan Leaf

One of the many anti-theft features in the Nissan Leaf is that the engine and neutral gear will not turn if the key is not within a close radius of the vehicle.

The lack of gearbox and fact that this electric vehicle needs to be plugged in to charge (usually in well-lit areas) provide an additional deterrent for would-be thieves.

Lastly, the GPS system is excellent at tracking the car down in the highly unlikely event that it does get stolen easy.

Current Nissan Leaf Deals & Incentives

You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Nissan deals.

Which of These Cars Is Least Likely to Be Stolen?

When it is all said and done, the Tesla Model S stands out as the least likely to be stolen.

Between its comprehensive security features, real-time GPS tracking, and biometric authentication, the Model S is simply too much for even the most experienced car thieves.

Tesla's continuous software updates also ensure that any emerging vulnerabilities are promptly patched, further bolstering the car's security.

Why Are These Cars So Hard to Steal?

The one thing that all of these vehicles have in common is that they have some of the most advanced anti-theft technology on the road today.

Car thieves are looking for easy targets. They know which vehicles have advanced anti-theft systems and simply pass them by.

And except for the F-150, these vehicles are low-volume sellers and are harder to sell once stolen.

How to Further Protect Your Car From Being Stolen

While modern cars are equipped with advanced security features, there are additional steps you can take to protect your vehicle from theft.

Here’s a look at five simple steps you can take to keep your vehicle secure:

• Park Wisely: Always park in well-lit and secure areas. If possible, use a garage or parking lot with surveillance cameras.
• Lock Your Car: It may sound obvious, but many car thefts occur due to owners leaving their vehicles unlocked. Double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked.
• Install a Security System: Consider installing an aftermarket alarm system that includes motion sensors, shock sensors, and a vehicle immobilizer.
• Use a Steering Wheel Lock: These physical deterrents may discourage thieves from attempting to steal your car, as they add an extra layer of complexity.
• Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Do not leave any valuables or personal belongings visible inside the car, as it may attract potential thieves.

Driving the Least Stolen Vehicle in 2024

In 2024, cars like the Tesla Model Y, BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz GLE Series, Audi A4, and Nissan Leaf stand out as some of the hardest cars to steal due to their advanced security features.

Despite these advancements, car owners need to remain vigilant and implement additional protective measures to safeguard their prized possessions from potential thefts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Cars Are Stolen Each Year In the US?

As of my last knowledge update in January 2024, over 1 million cars were stolen annually in the United States. However, it is important to note that this number might have changed since then due to various factors like advancements in car security technology and changes in crime rates.

What Is The Number 1 Most Stolen Car?

The "most stolen car" rankings can change over time, and they can vary depending on different factors such as location and year. As of 2024, the Dodge Charger was among the most stolen cars in the US.

Are keyless entry systems safe from theft attempts?

Keyless entry systems have improved security features, but they are not completely immune to theft attempts. Thieves can use relay attacks or signal amplifiers to intercept and replicate the key fob's signals.

Can I track my car if it gets stolen?

Many modern cars come equipped with GPS tracking systems that can assist in locating your vehicle if it's stolen.

Are older cars less likely to be stolen than newer ones?

In general, older cars might be less desirable to thieves due to their outdated security features and reduced market value for spare parts. However, certain classic or vintage cars can still be targeted for their collectible value.