What Brand of Car Gets Pulled Over the Most? 🚓 Top 12 Revealed (2026)

Ever noticed how some cars seem to have a magnetic attraction to flashing police lights? You’re not imagining things. Certain car brands and models get pulled over far more often than others—and it’s not just about speed or reckless driving. From the infamous Subaru WRX to muscle cars like the Dodge Challenger, these vehicles have earned a reputation as “cop magnets.” But what really makes them stand out to law enforcement? Is it the car’s color, the driver’s age, or something else entirely?

In this article, we peel back the curtain on traffic stop statistics, debunk popular myths (spoiler: red cars aren’t the biggest offenders), and reveal the surprising role of car color, modifications, and driver behavior. Plus, we share expert tips on how to avoid unnecessary stops and what to do if you get pulled over. Curious which cars top the list and why? Keep reading—you might be surprised by what we uncovered!

Key Takeaways

  • Subaru WRX drivers are 49% more likely to get pulled over than the average driver, making it the most ticketed car in the U.S.
  • Muscle and sports cars dominate the list of most frequently stopped vehicles, often due to their performance and youthful driver base.
  • Contrary to popular belief, white cars—not red—are pulled over the most, simply because they are the most common on the road.
  • Speeding accounts for nearly half of all traffic stops, but equipment violations and distracted driving are also major factors.
  • Car modifications like loud exhausts and dark tints increase your chances of being stopped.
  • Maintaining your vehicle and knowing your rights can help you avoid or contest tickets effectively.

Ready to find out if your car is a magnet for cops? Let’s dive into the data and expert insights!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Cars That Get Pulled Over Most

Ever wonder why some cars seem to have a permanent invitation to the side of the road? It’s not just bad luck. At Car Brands™, we’ve analyzed the data to see which vehicles are “cop magnets.” Before we dive into the deep end, here are some quick takeaways:

  • Subaru WRX is the reigning champion of speeding tickets.
  • White cars are actually pulled over more than red ones (mostly because there are more of them!).
  • Speeding accounts for nearly 49% of all traffic stops.
  • Young drivers (18-24) are the most frequent targets for law enforcement.
  • Equipment violations (like that burnt-out bulb you’ve ignored) are a top reason for being stopped.
Fact Statistic/Detail
Daily Traffic Stops ~50,000 in the U.S.
Annual Traffic Stops ~20 Million
Most Ticketed Model Subaru WRX (49% more likely than average)
Safest Color White (High visibility)
Primary Stop Reason Speeding

Busy city street with pedestrians crossing at crosswalk.

Traffic stops haven’t always been about radar guns and dashcams. In the early days of the Car Brand Histories, police were more concerned with runaway horses than horseless carriages. However, as the Auto Industry News evolved, so did the methods of enforcement.

The 1950s saw the rise of the “muscle car” era, which fundamentally changed how police viewed certain vehicles. Suddenly, a car wasn’t just transportation; it was a statement of speed. This led to the birth of vehicle profiling, where certain brands became synonymous with “trouble.” We’ve seen this trend continue into the modern era, where “tuner” cars and high-performance SUVs are often the first to be spotted by a highway patrol officer.

🚗 The Top 12 Most Pulled-Over Car Brands and Models in the U.S.

Video: The Idea that red cars get pulled over more often by police.

If you’re driving one of these, you might want to keep a close eye on your speedometer. According to data from American Auto Insurance and recent Car Brand Lists, these models are the most likely to get you a “performance award” from the local precinct. Interestingly, the Subaru WRX tops the list, with its drivers being 49% more likely to get a ticket than the average driver.

Enthusiast Rating: Cop Magnetism vs. Performance

Model Cop Magnetism (1-10) Performance Score (1-10) Why They Get Stopped
Subaru WRX 10 9 High speed, aggressive “tuner” look.
Dodge Challenger 9 9 Loud exhaust, muscle car reputation.
Kia Stinger 8 8 Surprising speed from a “budget” brand.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe 8 7 Popular with younger, risk-taking drivers.
Nissan 370Z 8 8 Classic sports car profile.
Volkswagen GTI 7 8 The “hot hatch” that loves to zip.
Dodge Charger 9 8 Often associated with aggressive driving.
Chevrolet Camaro 9 9 High-performance and flashy styling.
Infiniti G37 7 7 Luxury speed that often goes unnoticed… until it doesn’t.
Mitsubishi Lancer 7 6 Often heavily modified.
Audi A3 6 7 Entry-level luxury that encourages speeding.
Mini Cooper 6 7 Nimble handling leads to “creative” lane changes.

As noted in the #featured-video, five of the top ten models are sports cars, which isn’t surprising. However, the Subaru WRX is a bit of a paradox; it’s considered one of the safest cars on the road by the IIHS, yet its drivers are the most ticketed.

🔍 Why Do Certain Car Brands Get Pulled Over More Often? Unpacking the Data

Video: Car with giant bull as passenger pulled over by Nebraska police.

It’s not just the car; it’s the persona attached to it. When we look at Car Brand Comparisons, several factors emerge:

  1. Price Point: Many of these cars are “attainable” sports cars. Because they cost less than a Ferrari but offer similar thrills, owners might be more willing to take risks.
  2. Driver Age: Statistics show that drivers aged 18-24 are the most likely to be pulled over. These drivers gravitate toward models like the Scion FR-S or Hyundai Veloster.
  3. Modifications: Loud exhausts, oversized spoilers, and dark window tints are like neon signs for law enforcement.
  4. Vehicle Condition: A car with visible dents or missing parts suggests a driver who might be less attentive to the rules of the road.

🎨 The Role of Car Color: Do Red Cars Really Get Pulled Over More?

Video: 4 Things you MUST remember if you get pulled over!

We’ve all heard the myth: “Don’t buy a red car; the cops will see you from a mile away!” ❌ False.

According to Pronto Insurance, white cars are actually pulled over the most. Why? Because white is the most popular car color, making up about 35% of vehicles on the road. Red cars actually come in second, followed by gray and silver.

The Reality: Law enforcement focuses on behavior, not just color. However, a bright red Ferrari doing 90 mph is certainly easier to spot than a silver Toyota Camry doing the same speed.

🚨 The Main Reasons Drivers Get Stopped and Ticketed: What Triggers a Traffic Stop?

Video: Two police officers stop the head of Internal Affairs.

Speeding is the big one, but it’s not the only way to end up with a ticket. Here’s the breakdown of why 20 million Americans get stopped every year:

  • Speeding (49%): The undisputed king of traffic stops.
  • Illegal Cell Phone Use: Distracted driving is a major focus for modern policing.
  • Improper Lane Changes: Cutting someone off or failing to signal.
  • Equipment Violations: Broken taillights, expired tags, or illegal tints.
  • Tailgating: Following too closely is a surefire way to get noticed.

Quote: “Speeding is by far the most common reason that drivers get pulled over on the road, constituting 49% of all traffic stops.” — American Auto Insurance

🛠️ DIY Car Maintenance Tips to Avoid Getting Pulled Over Unnecessarily

Video: Cops Pull Over The Most Unhinged Driver They’ve Ever Seen.

You don’t want to give a cop a “freebie” reason to pull you over. Keeping your car in top shape is the best defense.

  1. Check Your Lights: Once a month, walk around your car with the lights on. Check headlights, high beams, turn signals, and brake lights.
  2. Mind Your Tint: Every state has different laws regarding window tint darkness. Make sure yours is legal.
  3. License Plate Visibility: Ensure your tags are up to date and your plate isn’t obscured by a dirty frame or cover.
  4. Windshield Integrity: A large crack in your field of vision is an easy excuse for a stop.

Pro Tip: Keep a spare set of bulbs in your glovebox. Sometimes, if you can fix it on the spot, an officer might let you off with a warning! ✅

⚖️ Legitimate Ways to Contest a Traffic Ticket and Win Your Case

Video: Driverless Waymo pulled over by Phoenix Police.

Got a ticket? Don’t panic. You have rights. While we always recommend driving safely, sometimes mistakes happen—on both sides.

  • Check for Errors: If the officer wrote the wrong car model or license plate number, the ticket might be dismissed.
  • Request Evidence: You have the right to see the radar calibration records or dashcam footage.
  • Presumption of Innocence: The burden of proof is on the state. If the officer doesn’t show up to court, you often win by default.
  • Trial by Declaration: In some states, you can contest a ticket via mail, which can be less intimidating than a courtroom.
Video: Arrogant Police Officer Pulls Over Black Fbi Agent and Regrets It.

Driving a “high-risk” car like a Dodge Charger doesn’t just attract cops; it attracts higher insurance premiums. Companies look at the Car Brand Market Shares and accident data to determine your rate.

If you find yourself on the wrong side of a radar gun, having a robust insurance policy is vital. Some providers offer legal assistance or help you navigate the aftermath of a ticket to keep your record as clean as possible.

💡 Accident Forgiveness Auto Insurance in Illinois: Is It Worth the Extra Cost?

Video: The Quinn Dale Moments That Had Grown Adults Wheezing With Laughter.

For our friends in the Land of Lincoln, accident forgiveness is a hot topic. Essentially, it’s a “get out of jail free” card for your first at-fault accident.

  • Pros: Prevents your rates from skyrocketing after a minor fender bender.
  • Cons: You pay for it upfront in your monthly premium.
  • Our Recommendation: If you drive a high-performance car or have a young driver on your policy, it’s almost always worth the extra cost.

📊 How Demographics and Driving Habits Influence Who Gets Pulled Over

Video: When IDIOT Cops Realize They’ve Been Caught.

It’s a tough pill to swallow, but who you are matters as much as what you drive.

  • Younger Drivers: Lack of experience leads to more erratic movements.
  • Commuters: Driving during “rush hour” increases the chance of aggressive maneuvers.
  • Night Owls: Police are more alert for DUI behavior late at night, making any minor

Conclusion: What We Learned About Cars That Get Pulled Over the Most

white van parked near store during daytime

So, what’s the verdict on the cars that get pulled over the most? It’s a cocktail of car type, driver behavior, and yes, sometimes color, but not always the flashy red you’ve heard about. The Subaru WRX takes the crown as the most ticketed car in America, largely because it attracts younger, thrill-seeking drivers who push the limits. Muscle cars like the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro aren’t far behind, thanks to their reputation and powerful engines.

But here’s the kicker: it’s not just the car’s brand or model that gets you noticed—it’s how you drive it. Speeding, illegal phone use, and equipment violations are the real culprits. White cars get pulled over the most, simply because they’re everywhere, not because they’re inherently “bad.”

If you drive one of these “cop magnets,” don’t despair. Stay safe, keep your vehicle well-maintained, and know your rights if you get a ticket. And remember, insurance options like accident forgiveness can help cushion the financial blow.

In the end, it’s not just about the car you drive—it’s about how you drive it. So buckle up, keep your eyes on the road, and maybe ease up on that lead foot. 🚦

Looking to shop or research the most ticketed cars? Here are some handy links to get you started:

Frequently Asked Questions About Cars and Traffic Stops

Video: Cop harasses homeless man and finds out he is a FBI agent.

Do luxury cars get pulled over more than economy cars?

Luxury cars can attract more attention, but it’s not a hard rule. Often, luxury vehicles like the Infiniti G37 or Audi A3 get pulled over because their drivers may feel more confident pushing speed limits or because these cars are more noticeable. However, economy cars with aggressive modifications or driven recklessly can be just as likely to be stopped.

What are the top reasons police pull over specific car brands?

Police usually pull over cars based on driver behavior rather than brand alone. However, certain brands like Dodge, Subaru, and Chevrolet have models with reputations for speed and aggressive driving, leading to more stops. Common reasons include speeding, illegal phone use, equipment violations, and erratic driving.

How does car color affect the likelihood of getting pulled over?

Contrary to popular belief, car color is not a major factor in traffic stops. White cars are pulled over the most, but that’s because they are the most common on the road. Red cars come second but do not inherently attract more tickets. Law enforcement focuses more on behavior than color.

Are sports cars more likely to be pulled over than sedans?

✅ Yes, sports cars like the Subaru WRX, Dodge Challenger, and Chevrolet Camaro are more likely to be pulled over due to their performance capabilities and the driving habits of their owners. Sedans generally attract less attention unless driven aggressively or modified.

Why do some car brands get pulled over more often?

Brands associated with performance, youth culture, or aggressive styling tend to get pulled over more. This is often because their drivers are younger or more prone to risky driving behaviors, and the cars themselves invite attention with loud exhausts or flashy modifications.

Do certain car models attract more traffic tickets?

Absolutely. Models like the Subaru WRX, Dodge Charger, and Hyundai Genesis Coupe are statistically more ticketed. This is due to a combination of driver demographics, vehicle performance, and modifications.

Which car brands are most frequently stopped by police?

The top brands include Subaru, Dodge, Chevrolet, Hyundai, and Kia, especially their sportier models. These brands appear frequently in traffic stop data due to their popularity among younger drivers and performance enthusiasts.

What are the top 5 cars most frequently stopped by police?

  1. Subaru WRX
  2. Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  3. Kia Stinger
  4. Dodge Challenger
  5. Nissan 370Z

These models combine speed, style, and youthful driver bases.

Do car modifications increase the likelihood of getting pulled over?

✅ Yes. Modifications such as dark window tints, loud exhausts, oversized spoilers, and lowered suspensions are red flags for law enforcement and increase the chance of being stopped.

Are luxury cars more likely to get pulled over than economy cars?

Luxury cars can attract attention, but it’s generally the driver’s behavior that matters most. Economy cars driven recklessly or with illegal modifications can be pulled over just as often.

Which car color is most likely to get pulled over?

White cars top the list simply because they are the most common. Color alone does not significantly influence traffic stops.

Do police target specific car models for traffic stops?

Police do not officially target models but may be more alert to cars known for speeding or aggressive driving, such as muscle cars and tuners.

Are certain car brands more prone to getting speeding tickets?

Yes, brands like Subaru, Dodge, and Chevrolet have models that receive more speeding tickets, often linked to driver demographics and vehicle capabilities.

What are the most ticketed cars in the US?

The Subaru WRX leads, followed by the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, Kia Stinger, Dodge Challenger, and Nissan 370Z.

What car brand is the most ticketed?

Subaru holds the top spot, largely due to the WRX model’s popularity among young, fast drivers.

What type of cars get pulled over the most?

Sports cars, muscle cars, and tuner vehicles are pulled over most often, especially when driven aggressively or modified.

For more fascinating insights on car brands and traffic tickets, check out our detailed article on Car Brands with the Most Speeding Tickets.

Ready to keep your ride safe and ticket-free? Stay tuned for our next deep dive into smart driving tech and insurance hacks! 🚗💨

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob leads the editorial direction at Car Brands™, focusing on evidence-based comparisons, reliability trends, EV tech, and market share insights. His team’s aim is simple: accurate, up-to-date guidance that helps shoppers choose their automobile confidently—without paywalls or fluff. Jacob's early childhood interest in mechanics led him to take automotive classes in high school, and later become an engineer. Today he leads a team of automotive experts with years of in depth experience in a variety of areas.

Articles: 420

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Trending now

🤯 How Many Different Cars Are There? A Deep Dive into the Global Automotive Landscape
Featured image for Which Car Brands Have the Most Loyal Fans Top 12 Revealed 2024
Which Car Brands Have the Most Loyal Fans? Top 12 Revealed (2024) 🚗
The Big 3 of Automobile Makers in the 1920s [2024]
Featured image for Top 15 Car Models With the Most Speeding Tickets Issued 2026
Which 15 Car Models Rack Up the Most Speeding Tickets in 2026? 🚓