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Most Stolen Cars in America

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Have you ever had a car stolen? It’s a terrible feeling to walk out of work or your home and find that parking spot is empty. What most people don’t realize is that the type of car you drive might make you an easier target. Some cars get stolen more often than others. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, these are the top ten most stolen cars in America.

most stolen cars

Do you own one of these cars?

Most Stolen Cars

  1. 1998 Honda Civic
  2. 1997 Honda Accord
  3. 2006 Ford F-150
  4. 2004 Chevrolet Silverado
  5. 2017 Toyota Camry
  6. 2016 Nissan Altima
  7. 2016 Toyota Corolla
  8. 2001 Dodge Ram Pickup
  9. 2017 GMC Sierra
  10. 2008 Chevrolet Impala

Prevent Car from Being Stolen

Obviously, the best way to prevent your vehicle from being stolen is to use an audible or visible warning device to deter thieves. There are also some other tips to keep your car safe.

  1. Make sure you lock your vehicle, even while you are driving.
  2. Don’t leave your keys in the car and don’t leave it run while it is unattended.
  3. Remove all of your valuables from the car.
  4. Don’t travel with your vehicle title in the car. Hide the registration in the car where only you would know where it is.
  5. Park in well-lit areas.
  6. Have the VIN etched into the windows. Thieves don’t want to deal with the hassle of replacing all of the glass to cover their tracks.
  7. Install an anti-theft system. You can opt for a mechanism that locks the steering wheel, an ignition cut-off system or passive alarm. It’s also wise to put a tracker on the vehicle that helps you recover a stolen vehicle.

If you are planning on purchasing a new vehicle, consider our 10 Best Car Buying Tips. Use this guide to save you money and find a vehicle that that isn’t on the top list of stolen models.

Kia & Hyundai NHTSA Fines Hit $210 Million

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The NHTSA announced orders made in consent with Hyundai and Kia to pay a recent penalty. The Kia and Hyundai NHTSA fines correspond with more than 1.6 million recalls of affected vehicles that are equipped with the Theta II engine.

Hyundai NHTSA Fines - Theta Engine
Wikipedia

Kia & Hyundai NHTSA Fines

This NHTSA settlement comes after many years of investigation into issues with the Theta II four-cylinder engine. The engine comes with several models, including 2011-2014:

  • Sonata
  • Santa Fe
  • Sportage
  • Optima
  • Sorento

So, what’s the issue with this engine? The NHTSA contends that Kia and Hyundai acted too slowly when attempting to resolve an engine recall.

Hyundai/Kia Engine Recall

Initially, Hyundai had to recall nearly 500,000 vehicles back in 2015 because manufacturing debris in the engine was restricting airflow. This defect causes excessive wear on the engine bearings and could lead to a stall or car fire. At first, Hyundai limited the recall to engines made before April 2012, stating that the problem has been corrected after that time.

However, Kia chose not to issue a recall. The automaker stated its version of the engine had been produced at a different manufacturing plant. Yet, 18 months later, both companies had to issue an additional recall that covered 1.2 million more vehicles.

In 2016, Kim Gwang-ho, a South Korean whistleblower, came to the United States and offered testimony that directly contradicted what Hyundai claimed. Because of this testimony, the NHTSA was able to determine that the brands didn’t issue recalls soon enough and not enough information was adequately reported.

Hyundai & Kia Fines

Hyundai must pay $54 million in penalty fines, while also investing $40 million into enhanced safety technology. This money will also go towards a new United States-based safety/testing facility.

The NHTSA agreed to defer $46 million in additional penalties, as long as the company meets the rest of the agreement.

Kia must pay $27 million in penalty fines while making an investment of $16 million toward more improvements. Again, the NHTSA agreed to defer $27 million in additional penalties, as long as the company meets the rest of the agreement.

Of course, NHTSA suits are nothing new as the agency is always looking to defend the consumer. Additionally, this won’t be the end of Hyundai recalls, but it might change how the company handles issues.

2021 Jeep Wrangler: Two New Changes

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If you’ve been a fan of the Jeep brand, you will be happy to hear about some upcoming changes to the Wrangler lineup. We will discuss the two main 2021 Jeep Wrangler updates that you want to look for.

2021 Jeep Wrangler hybrid
FCA Media

New Wrangler 4xe

We’ve told you about plans to make an electric Jeep Wrangler, but you don’t want to overlook the hybrid model coming down the pipeline. The new 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is making a grand appearance with this year’s lineup. It is the first plug-in-hybrid Jeep Wrangler and sure to impress.

This hybrid Wrangler pumps out 375 horsepower, thanks to the two electric motors working in conjunction with the turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine. It also features a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Of course, this model is still fun to take off-road and down the trails.

This model won’t be available right away but will be coming out later.

Forward-Facing Off-Road Camera

Another exciting addition is the new forward-facing off-road camera, originally only available on Gladiator models. With this camera, you can now see any upcoming obstructions or obstacles that would typically be out of your view, especially while on the trails.

New Jeep Wrangler Worth Your Money?

Even with all of these additions, it’s hard to determine if you should buy a Jeep Wrangler. We’ve discussed many Wrangler issues and this model doesn’t seem to fix many of them. This SUV still has a low-reliability rating and gives a rougher ride than many other competitors. It also gets terrible fuel mileage, which doesn’t surprise most owners.

However, what’s most disappointing is the lack of luxury. One would expect high-end materials and technology in the cabin in today’s age, but the Wrangler feels outdated. We would much rather drive the new Ford Bronco instead.

Let us know your thoughts. Are you excited about the Wrangler updates or will you be choosing a different SUV?

Ford Active Driver Assist Debuts This Year

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Ford hurried deployment of the hands-free Active Driver Assist to 100,000 vehicles by the end of this year. Let’s take a closer look at what Ford Active Driver Assist is and what vehicles it will be included in.

Ford Active Driver Assist - F150 Mach-E
Ford

What is Ford Active Driver Assist?

If you know anything about GM Super Cruise, this Ford system is quite similar. It utilizes precise mapping, cameras, sensors and GPS to steer the car in the center of a lane while controlling its speed. Furthermore, facial recognition technology forces the driver to keep eyes on the road. To add more versatility, Ford claims it works while driving on more than 100,000 miles of roadway, with more coming soon.

While vehicles will be delivered with the necessary hardware at the end of this year, the cloud-connected technology won’t function until 2021.

What Vehicles Include Active Driver Assist?

This high-tech feature is included with the Co-Pilot 360 Active 2.0 package, which comes standard with the F-150 Limited. It’s also a $1,595 option with some other trims, such as the Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum. By choosing to upgrade early, owners get a $100 discount by paying for it now.

It will also be standard equipment with the new Mustang Mach-E First Edition, Premium and California Route 1 models. You can also upgrade the Select model with a $3,200 Comfort and Technology package that includes this feature. This package also comes with a 360-degree parking camera, a heated steering wheel and heated seats.

The Co-Pilot 360 system has a lot more to offer than simply the Active Drive Assist program. It comes with lane-keeping technology, adaptive cruise control and automatic braking. Plus, you can use the system to self-park the truck or crossover by simply touching a button.

What do you think about this new system? Is this something you are willing to pay extra for with a new F-150 or Mach-E?

GMC HUMMER EV Revealed: First Look

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If you haven’t heard the big news, the GMC HUMMER EV has made its debut! This is considered the “World’s First All-Electric Supertruck,” but what is so special about this new electric-powered Hummer? Let’s take a closer look.

GMC HUMMER EV
GMC

GMC HUMMER EV Debut

We expect to see this HUMMER with all-electric drive and a full cabin filled with high-tech features during the fall of 2021.

It is built on the Ultium electric vehicle platform. This platform is also part of the zero-emissions truck lineup coming from the automaker.

The style doesn’t look too much different from the gas-powered HUMMER H2. The first model to hit the market will be the Edition 1, priced at $112,595. This model comes with all-wheel-drive, plus three electric motors that produce 1,000 horsepower. This EV can hit 60 mph in about three seconds.

Check out the removable roof panels that are on this short-bed crew cab. Plus, this truck includes GMC’s six-position MultiPro tailgate, a power tonneau cover and a power opening rear window. It is also equipped with an air suspension system that increases the ride by six inches. The included four-wheel steering has a CrabWalk mode to move diagonally at lower speeds.

There is also a 360-degree camera that shows 18 various views, including one from under the truck. Customers can also take advantage of the Super Cruise driver aid. This system permits hands-free lane changes and driving on some highways that have been mapped out.

GM HUMMER EV Range

GM estimates that this truck drives 350 miles per charge. You can use 350-kilowatt public fast-charging stations, which provides 100 miles of range with every ten minutes.

GM plans to also introduce a model under $100k in the Fall of 2022. After that, we will see a $90k model with just two motors, the following spring 2023. Finally, in spring 2024, GM has an $80k option without the four-wheel-steering or air ride. If you want, you can order the Edition 1 right now, with just a $100 deposit.

Learn more about this electric-powered GMC HUMMER with the above YouTube video. Plus, don’t forget to check out the 2021 GMC Canyon AT4.

2021 Honda Ridgeline: First Look

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The current Honda Ridgeline doesn’t look much like a truck, but the automaker hopes to change that. With a first look at the 2021 Honda Ridgeline, you will see the new plans to make it look more like a capable truck.

2021 Honda Ridgeline
Honda Media

2021 Honda Ridgeline Updates

Recently we talked about the 2021 Honda lineup, but at the time, we didn’t have information about the Ridgeline. Now, we have some updated information.

Current Ridgeline models share a platform and design with the Pilot SUV. However, a recent makeover adds more truck style. New models will have a large, upright grille, a bulging hood and flatter, taller front fenders.

However, there is a lot about this Honda pickup that remains the same. It carries over the same 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, plus the option to choose front- or all-wheel-drive.

Inside the cabin, owners find a lot of the same equipment. However, there is new trim, plus an updated infotainment system.

This Honda Ridgeline also has a different tailgate and in-bed trunk that is opened traditionally, or as a door. This is a standard feature, along with the many driver-assist aids, such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency brakes.

There are no other unibody pickup trucks available on the market right now. However, the Ridgeline comes in second to last place as far as midsize truck sales, only ahead of the GMC Canyon. With that said, we expect to see some smaller pickups coming from both Ford and Hyundai, starting next year.

Would You Buy a New Ridgeline?

While we don’t know pricing yet for the new Ridgeline, we expect it will be comparable to 2020 models, which starts at $33,900. Is this a price you are willing to pay for the redesigned Ridgeline truck or do you like the current styling better?

We would love to hear your thoughts.

New Jeep Wagoneer vs. Grand Wagoneer

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We initially talked about a Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer option earlier in the year. Then, Jeep gave a sneak peek of the production this past September. Now that we have some details, it’s time to start looking at the specs and differences of the Wagoneer vs. Grand Wagoneer.

Jeep Wagoneer vs. Grand Wagoneer
FCA

Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer

The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer began as a concept, but what sets these two models apart? Well, if you look at the Cherokee and the Grand Cherokee, the answer becomes obvious. “Grand” in Jeep terms, doesn’t just mean larger, but also premium.

While Jeep has confirmed that both SUVs will be available in standard and long-wheelbase options, there are some clear differences. The automaker hopes the Jeep Wagoneer competes against the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition, while the Grand Wagoneer is going to battle against the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator.

In the smaller concept, it’s clear that there are some unique design touches and extensive exterior lighting features. We don’t yet know what powertrain will be under the hood but know it will provide plenty of oomph.

However, there has been some talk about a plug-in hybrid powertrain, but there should be other options as well. Obviously, the SUVs will have a four-wheel-drive system and tons of off-road capability, just like the rest of the Jeep lineup.

2021 Jeep Lineup

The Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are expected to be released as 2021 models. According to Motor Trend, there will also be many other changes made to the Jeep lineup. Look for updates to the Renegade, Compass, Wrangler, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and the Gladiator as well.

What do you think? Would you hold out for a Wagoneer model or are you more interested in another Jeep SUV or truck? Tell us your thoughts and if you are happy about this retro SUV making a comeback.

2020 Explorer Gets IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Designation

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It wasn’t that long ago we told you about the redesigned 2020 Ford Explorer. Now, we have some safety news you might be interested in. The IIHS recently designated the 2020 Explorer as a Top Safety Pick+, which is the highest accolade given.

2020 Explorer - Ford
Ford Media

Why High Safety Ratings for 2020 Explorer?

The IIHS uses six crashworthiness tests to determine the ratings of vehicles. In addition to these tests, there are also ratings for the headlights. The IIHS further evaluates what advanced driver-assist technology must be included to reduce or avoid a collision.

The Explorer is Ford’s best-selling SUV of all-time. It’s been a mainstay of American families throughout the years, making it even more important to focus on safety. That’s why the automaker is so proud of the designation, proving that the company is taking steps to keep owners protected.

The new Explorer comes with the Ford Co-Pilot360™ system, which is a suite of driver-assistance features.

The complete suite contains the following features:

  • Pre-Collision Assist complete with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Pedestrian Detection
  • Dynamic Braking System
  • Rearview Camera
  • Blind Spot Information System
  • Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Auto High-Beam Headlamps
  • Lane-Keeping System

New Ford Explorer: What We Love

While safety is paramount in today’s modern driving age, there are other things that the redesigned Explorer offers. The redesign ensured that new Explorer models could tow up to 66% more. By changing the powertrain, Ford also made the Explorer lineup more efficient overall.

So, the new Ford SUV doesn’t just provide more power but also helps to save money. Plus, it’s a safe family-friendly vehicle. We wonder if we won’t start seeing more Explorers on the road soon.

What do you think of this IIHS designation? Does it make you more likely to purchase the 2020 Ford Explorer? We would love to hear your thoughts. Tell us how the Explorer stacks up to other SUVs you own.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado Receives Multi-Flex Tailgate

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Everyone was excited to see GMC Sierra’s Multi-Pro tailgate and it’s been a big hit. Now, we’ve received news that there will be a new Chevrolet Multi-Flex Tailgate option for the 2021 Silverado. Based on initial reports, this Chevy truck tailgate will work exactly like the GMC Multi-Pro option, but it has its own name.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado Multi-Flex Tailgate
Chevrolet

2021 Chevrolet Silverado Multi-Flex Tailgate

So, when can we expect to see this new tailgate for the Silverado models? For now, Chevy states that it will be available to add to Silverado trucks early in 2021. However, the 2021 Chevy Silverado debuts next week, just without the new tailgate.

Based on the initial release video, it looks like the Chevy tailgate will be available on the Silverado High Country, but we might see it with other trim levels as well. It could even be standard equipment with some trim levels.

Take a look at the video for yourself.

Are You Ready for the New Silverado?

We expect several other updates to the 2021 Silverado. What we are most excited about is the addition three new editions: All Star Edition Plus, Texas Edition Plus, and LTZ Premium Texas Edition. These are also being referred to as packages by some dealers.

You will be able to apply these packages or editions to the following trim levels: LT, RST and LTZ. What these new additions bring to the Silverado lineup is an easier ordering experience. It’s possible to get the Chevy truck you want without a lot of hassle.

The only question is – are you going to order one right away, or wait for the Multi-Flex Tailgate? We would love to hear your thoughts about the latest tailgate upgrade. Is this a truck you can see yourself in? More information about the Chevy truck lineup is just around the corner.

Ford Releases Proud to Honor Items for Charities

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Ford wants to do everything it can to support military members and families. As a way to help further, the automaker recently released a new line of merchandise and apparel. The Proud to Honor program is designed to support members of the U.S. Armed Forces and families.

Ford Proud to Honor Gear
Ford

Proud to Honor Gear

Ford released military-inspired gear that appeals to the entire family. You can find a complete selection of gear, hats and shirts. The proceeds go to companies raising money for DAV (Disabled American Veterans). Not only do these disabled vets get assistance, but money also goes to Blue Star Families, an organization that aids military families handle the problems thrown at them.

Here is what Mark LaNeve, Ford’s V.P. of U.S. Marketing had to say about the program during a press release.

You can never do too much to honor the service of these brave men and women, and you never stop trying.

Helping the Military

So, how do the sales of this gear help military members and families? Well, Ford is donating 100% of all the profits to these charities. The profits make up five percent of the sale prices. Currently, there’s a wide range of products to choose from, including:

  • Children’s t-shirt: $14.95
  • Let’s Roll camo hat: $24.95

You can see how the five-percent would quickly add up to provide plenty of assistance to those who need it the most.

Additionally, Ford is always looking for ways to benefit the lives of our military. Currently, the company provides all current and retired members of the Armed Forces and their families a $500 discount when purchasing a vehicle. It’s just one more way that Ford is trying to give back.

Ford has been busy lately. From designing the Maverick truck to launching this charity program, a lot is going on with the automaker. Does this new program make you more likely to support Ford? We would love to hear from you.

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