Illinois And Wisconsin’s Most Stolen Vehicle Is The Very Same One

Ever had your car stolen? Unfortunately, I have, and it's about as unpleasant as you probably imagined. Especially if you love the car that someone decides to steal. Mine ended up at the bottom of a lake a few weeks after being taken.

If you drive a Hyundai Elantra in Illinois or Wisconsin, you may want to double-check that your doors are locked tonight.

A new study from FinanceBuzz found that the Hyundai Elantra was the most-stolen vehicle in both Illinois and Wisconsin during 2025. The Elantra has become a favorite target for thieves nationwide, topping the list in 17 different states overall.

The reason goes back to a huge security issue involving certain Hyundai and Kia models produced between 2011 and 2021. Many of those vehicles lacked electronic engine immobilizers, a feature that prevents thieves from starting a car without the correct key or fob. After viral social media videos showed how easily some models could be stolen, theft numbers exploded across the country.

The Elantra Didn't Just Top The Charts In Illinois And Wisconsin

That vehicle also finished as America’s most stolen vehicle overall in 2025, with more than 21,700 thefts nationwide. The Hyundai Sonata came in third nationally, while the Honda Accord landed in second place.

What’s interesting is that neighboring states aren’t all seeing the same trend. Pickup trucks remain hugely popular theft targets in more rural states, while other areas continue to see heavy theft numbers involving Hyundai sedans.

Here’s a look at the most-stolen vehicles in states surrounding Illinois and Wisconsin:

• Iowa: Chevrolet Silverado 1500
• Indiana: Hyundai Elantra
• Missouri: Hyundai Elantra
• Kentucky: Hyundai Sonata
• Wisconsin: Hyundai Elantra
• Illinois: Hyundai Elantra

The good news is that overall vehicle thefts in the United States actually dropped significantly in 2025, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Still, if your vehicle appears on one of these lists, experts recommend using steering-wheel locks, parking in well-lit areas, and making sure software security updates have been installed.