There are hot cars, and then there are "hot" cars, or vehicles that were obtained through illicit means. While many auto analysts track sales figures, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) tracks vehicles using a different system – which are most likely to be stolen. This list of "hot wheels," released every year, details which rides tickled thieves' collective fancy the most.

Naturally, most of the used cars are on the list because they are popular and there are more of them on the road. Drivers shouldn't hesitate from buying these used cars simply because they're afraid of it getting stolen. In fact, the list is more an endorsement of the car's desirability than anything else. The FBI recently released a study showing that car theft was at its lowest point in twenty years, so drivers who pick up any of these hot rides – preferably at their local used car dealership – won't have to worry too much about it disappearing.

The numbers from 2009, released this month, show a picture very similar to the previous year. Once again, the 1994 Honda Accord was the most stolen vehicle in the country, followed closely by the 1995 Honda Civic. These two models are best sellers year in and year out, and it's a testament to their durability that there are still so many of them on the road.

Those vehicles were followed by two more popular models, the 1991 Toyota Camry and 1997 Ford F-150. All four of these vehicles are perennial top sellers and these four particular models have held the top spots on the list for several years running.

The bottom of the list saw a bit more of a shakeup. The 1994 Chevrolet full-size Pickup was the biggest mover, jumping onto the list for the first time at number 7. The most recent car to make the list is the 2009, Toyota Corolla, a somewhat surprising entry given the modern car security features on many newer vehicles. The 2002 Ford Explorer, ranked tenth in 2008, moved up a notch to number 9.

This movement cleared the way for some cars to fall out of favor with crooks. The 1999 Ford Taurus and 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee both ended their runs on the list.

Even in older used cars, there are some prevention strategies that the NICB recommends so drivers can ensure their vehicle doesn't end up in a chop shop. First and foremost is common sense. The agency reports that many drivers would be surprised at how many thefts could be prevented by drivers simply locking their doors and taking their car keys with them.

Used cars might not have the best security systems, but most of the modern advances are easy fixes. A 1994 Honda Accord might not have an OnStar GPS system, but a LoJack or similar tracking device purchase can make it easy for police to track down a car. Authorities say that these devices shift the balance in drivers' favor of getting their car back.

It's also worth noting that the NICB maintains a system that tracks stolen vehicles by VIN number. Drivers in the market for a used car should be sure to check their purchase against the database to ensure that they're working with a reputable dealer.