Newark Police Warn of Surge in Thefts Targeting 3 Honda Models

Thieves are using electronic devices to steal late-model Accords, Civics, and CR-Vs in Newark, NJ.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Newark Department of Public Safety has issued a vehicle theft warning, advising residents that late-model Honda Accords, Civics, and CR-Vs have become targets for theft in the city. Thieves are reportedly using electronic devices to copy key fob codes and steal these vehicles. Newark officials are urging drivers to take extra security measures like using steering wheel locks, pedal locks, or other aftermarket vehicle security systems.

Why it matters

Newark has seen a significant increase in thefts of Honda and Kia vehicles in recent years, which officials have attributed to a lack of anti-theft technology in those models from 2011 to 2021. This latest warning highlights the ongoing challenge of combating vehicle theft in the city, which remains a major public safety concern.

The details

According to the Newark Department of Public Safety, thieves are specifically targeting late-model Honda Accords, Civics, and CR-Vs by using electronic devices to copy the key fob codes and steal the vehicles. Newark officials are advising drivers of these models to take extra security precautions, such as using steering wheel locks, pedal locks, or other aftermarket vehicle security systems. Parking in well-lit, secure areas is also recommended as a theft-deterrent measure.

  • In 2024, Newark sued Honda and Kia, reporting a 1,246% increase in thefts of their vehicles from 2022 to 2023.
  • Newark officials previously stated that about one in five stolen cars in the city is left running.

The players

Newark Department of Public Safety

The law enforcement agency in Newark, New Jersey that issued the vehicle theft warning.

Honda

The automaker whose late-model Accord, Civic, and CR-V vehicles have become targets for theft in Newark.

Kia

The automaker that, along with Honda, was sued by Newark in 2024 for allegedly leaving out important anti-theft technology in their vehicles from 2011 to 2021.

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What’s next

Newark officials have not specified any definite next steps, but the city's ongoing efforts to combat vehicle theft and work with automakers to improve anti-theft technology will likely continue.

The takeaway

This case highlights the persistent challenge of vehicle theft in Newark, which has been exacerbated by vulnerabilities in certain Honda and Kia models. It underscores the importance of drivers taking proactive security measures to protect their vehicles, as well as the need for automakers to prioritize anti-theft technology in their product design.