Michigan’s Most Stolen-Car Edition

Auto theft declined nationally last year, but remains a threat in parts of Michigan. The Detroit area had nearly 20,000 automobiles stolen in 2011 ranking it the 11th worst location in the country. The annual list of most stolen automobiles is always full of surprises and the 2011 list of most stolen vehicles in Michigan is especially unique.

Michigan thieves like to drive American, just like Michigan drivers. Considering so many Michigan cars are stolen from the Detroit area, it shouldn’t be too big of a surprise.

Here’s the full list of the most commonly stolen cars in Michigan in 2011:

1 Dodge Caravan – 2000
2 Chevrolet Impala – 2004
3 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) – 1997
4 Ford Taurus – 1997
5 Dodge Intrepid – 2002
6 Ford Pickup (Full Size) – 2005
7 Pontiac Grand Prix – 1997
8 Chevrolet Malibu – 2011
9 Dodge Stratus – 2002
10 Dodge Pickup (Full Size) – 2003

A Dodge Caravan? Really? I would think the unlawfuls of Michigan could do better than that. At least a 1980 Corvette isn't on this list! Of course, you can WIN one of those from us! (Details HERE!)

What can you do to prevent your vehicle from being stolen? The National Insurance Crime Bureau suggests four levels of protection:

Common Sense: Lock your car and take your keys. It’s simple enough,
but many thefts occur because owners make it easy for thieves to steal their
cars.

Warning Device:
Having and using a visible or audible warning device is another item that can ensure that your car remains where you left it.

Immobilizing Device:
Generally speaking, if your vehicle can’t be started, it can’t be stolen. “Kill” switches, fuel cut-offs and smart keys are among the devices that are extremely effective.

Tracking Device:
A tracking device emits a signal to the police or to a monitoring station when the vehicle is stolen. Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles. Some systems employ “telematics,” which combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring of a vehicle. If the vehicle is moved, the system will alert the owner and the vehicle can be tracked via computer.