More Than 25,000 Michigan Vehicles Stolen in 2011

Automobiles made by General Motors and Chrysler were eight of the 10 most common vehicles stolen in Michigan in 2011.

The statistics were released Tuesday by the Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority, which awards grants to prevent auto theft and catch thieves. The agency says there were slightly more than 25,000 vehicles stolen in 2011, down nearly 7 percent from 2010.

The No. 1 vehicle was the 2000 Dodge Caravan, followed by the 2004 Chevrolet Impala and 1997 Chevrolet full-size pickup.

Dan Vartanian of the anti-theft group says older models may be vulnerable because they’re easier to steal.

The 1997 Ford Taurus was No. 4, followed by: 2002 Dodge Intrepid, 2005 full-size Ford pickup, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2011 Chevy Malibu, 2002 Dodge Stratus and 2003 Dodge Ram pickup.