Auto theft has been on the rise nationally and in Michigan, with more than 21,000 vehicles stolen in 2021 and over 25,000 stolen in 2022.
According to law enforcement, it’s possible that up to 85% to 90% of these thefts are carried out using Auto ProPad devices.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, it is hard to pinpoint exactly why some vehicles are stolen more than others, but a few trends stand out.
Popularity, availability, and particular vulnerabilities in technology often make specific models more attractive to thieves.
Here’s a breakdown of the most stolen cars in Michigan in 2023:
Top 5 Stolen Cars in Michigan (2023):
1. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2. Dodge Charger
3. Dodge Durango
4. Chrysler 300
5. Ram 1500
National Top 5 Stolen Cars (2023):
1. Hyundai Elantra
2. Hyundai Sonata
3. Kia Optima
4. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
5. Kia Soul
Technology has evolved, but so have the methods employed by thieves.
“They’re able to go through the prompts in the [ProPad] device, program a blank key by whatever means (you can get them online), and start up your car,” said Sgt. Cameron Wright of the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
Michigan legislators enacted a law to combat this on Oct. 20, 2024.
The law imposes a five-year felony for possession of ProPads—programming tools used to hack vehicle systems—without a legitimate purpose. Stealing a car with these tools can result in a 10-year prison sentence.
“You don’t actually have to steal a vehicle,” said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. “But by having this technology on your person, you better have it because you need it for a legitimate purpose.”
The Personal Cost of Auto Theft
Auto theft is never a victimless crime.
Angelica Sears of Wayne said her husband’s 2003 red Chevy Silverado 1500 was stolen in Farmington Hills on Aug. 13, 2024. The truck wasn’t just a vehicle but part of the family.
“It’s been absolutely horrible,” Sears said, recounting the emotional toll of the theft.
The truck contained tools her husband needed for work and sentimental items from his late father, a Navy veteran.
Among the stolen items was her father-in-law’s funeral flag, which had been kept in the passenger seat as a way to keep his memory alive.
“I’m about to cry thinking about it. He’s upset every day the truck’s not here,” Sears said.
While she doesn’t expect the thieves to change their minds, Sears hopes someone will spot the truck and contact Farmington Hills police at 248-871-2600 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up.
