Michigan Leads with Jeep Grand Cherokee Most Stolen Vehicle in 2024
Vehicle theft continues to be a significant concern for insurers and vehicle owners, with certain car models more frequently targeted due to inherent security vulnerabilities. In Michigan, the Jeep Grand Cherokee was identified as the most stolen vehicle in 2024, according to data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), highlighting regional differences compared to national trends where Hyundai models lead theft statistics. Other commonly stolen vehicles in Michigan include the Dodge Durango, Dodge Charger, RAM 1500, and Chrysler 300, reflecting local preferences and exposure to theft risks.
Car thieves are employing increasingly sophisticated methods to circumvent standard vehicle security, including relay attacks to capture key fob signals, hacking Electronic Control Units (ECUs), key duplication, GPS jamming, and traditional theft techniques. This evolving threat landscape requires both insurance professionals and vehicle owners to understand the complexities of these tactics when assessing risk and claims.
Aftermarket security measures remain a critical strategy to mitigate theft risks. These include physical deterrents like steering wheel locks, GPS tracking devices, and recording technologies such as dashcams that capture evidence in real time. Secure parking options, such as garages, also play a pivotal role in reducing theft occurrences, though access is not universally available to all vehicle owners.
In the event of a vehicle theft, prompt reporting protocols are essential. Vehicle owners should immediately notify law enforcement with comprehensive vehicle details, including make, model, year, license plate, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Following police notification, insurance claims processes should be initiated swiftly to ensure timely coverage and recovery efforts. Additionally, informing the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) helps prevent fraudulent use of vehicle registration or titles.
Financial institutions involved in vehicle financing also need to be informed to monitor for potential fraudulent activities impacting associated accounts. Insurance policies typically stipulate that if a stolen vehicle is unrecovered after a designated period, ownership transfers to the insurer. Conversely, if the vehicle is recovered prior to claim settlement, it is returned to the owner after police investigation concludes.
This situation underscores the ongoing challenges insurers face with vehicle theft, emphasizing the importance of robust risk assessment, prevention measures, and coordinated response actions across law enforcement, regulatory bodies, and financial institutions. Keeping abreast of emerging theft methods and preventive technologies is critical for stakeholders in the automotive insurance market.