What Are the 15 Most Common Cars to Get Pulled Over in 2026? 🚨

Ever wonder why some cars seem to have a magnetic attraction to flashing police lights? Is it just bad luck, or is there a method to the madness behind traffic stops? At Car Brands™, we’ve dug deep into the data, driver habits, and even the psychology of law enforcement to uncover the 15 cars most likely to get pulled over in the U.S. in 2026. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about speed—your car’s model, color, and even modifications play a starring role.

One of our editors once got pulled over in a Mazda Miata—because the officer thought the driver was “too eager” on a pizza delivery run! Stories like that, combined with hard stats (like the Subaru WRX’s staggering 49% higher speeding ticket rate), make this a must-read for anyone who wants to stay one step ahead of the radar gun. Curious if your car made the list? Keep reading to find out which rides attract the most attention and how you can avoid becoming a statistic.

Key Takeaways

  • Subaru WRX tops the list with the highest percentage of speeding tickets, making it the ultimate “ticket magnet.”
  • Honda Civic leads in total stops due to sheer numbers on the road, not necessarily reckless driving.
  • Car color myths busted: White cars get pulled over more often than flashy reds or yellows.
  • Modifications and driver behavior significantly increase police attention—loud exhausts and dark tints are red flags.
  • Location, time, and driver demographics (especially young drivers) heavily influence stop likelihood.
  • Pro tips included to help you avoid tickets and contest unfair citations.

Ready to learn which cars you should watch out for and how to keep your driving record clean? Let’s hit the road!

Table of Contents

Here is the comprehensive guide on the most pulled-over cars, written by the team at Car Brands™.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Getting Pulled Over

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of which rides attract the flashing lights, let’s look at the landscape of traffic stops in the USA. It’s not just about bad luck; it’s a mix of statistics, psychology, and horsepower.

  • The Numbers Game: Approximately 20 million drivers are pulled over annually in the U.S., which averages out to about 50,000 stops every single day.
  • The Usual Suspect: The Subaru WRX consistently tops the charts for the highest percentage of drivers with speeding tickets (nearly 49% more than average!).
  • The Volume Leader: While the WRX has the highest rate, the Honda Civic is often the “most pulled over” simply because there are so many of them on the road.
  • Youth Factor: Drivers aged 18-24 are the most likely demographic to see those cherry-top lights, often due to inexperience and a higher propensity for risk-taking.
  • The “Red Car” Myth: Contrary to popular belief, red cars aren’t the most targeted. White cars actually get pulled over more frequently, largely due to their ubiquity (they make up about 35% of car sales).

Fact Check: Speeding is responsible for about one-third of vehicle fatalities over the last two decades. It’s not just a ticket; it’s a safety hazard.

🚦 Traffic Stops Uncovered: Why Certain Cars Get Pulled Over More Often

Video: Which Cars Get Pulled Over the Most?

Why does it seem like the police have a vendetta against certain models? At Car Brands™, we’ve analyzed the data, and it usually boils down to two main factors: Reputation and Demographics.

Vehicles like the Subaru WRX or the Volkswagen GTI are marketed toward enthusiasts who enjoy driving… spiritedly. These cars are affordable performance machines (often costing half the price of a luxury sports car), making them accessible to younger drivers who might have a heavier foot.

On the flip side, cars like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord get stopped often simply because they are the most common cars on the road. Law enforcement tends to fish where the fish are. If 100 cars pass a speed trap and 20 of them are Camrys, statistically, a Camry is likely to get caught.

For more deep dives into automotive history and trends, check out our Car Brand Histories and Auto Industry News.

🔍 The Top 15 Most Common Cars Pulled Over in the U.S.

Video: LAWYER: 10 Traffic Stop Rights You NEED to Know.

We’ve compiled the ultimate list based on ticket rates and volume. We are looking at a mix of “Ticket Magnets” (high percentage of owners ticketed) and “Volume Leaders” (high total number of stops).

The “Ticket Magnets” Rating Table

Here is how the top offenders stack up in terms of “Police Attention Score” (1-10, with 10 being a guaranteed siren).

Car Model Police Attention Score Primary Reason Driver Vibe
Subaru WRX 10/10 Speeding / Mods Rally Driver Wannabe
Kia Stinger 9/10 Speeding Undercover Speedster
Scion FR-S / Toyota 86 9/10 Drifting / Speed Drift King
Volkswagen GTI 8/10 Aggressive Driving Hot Hatch Hero
Dodge Challenger 8.5/10 Noise / Speed Muscle Car Enthusiast

1. Subaru WRX

The undisputed king of speeding tickets. With 49% more speeding tickets than the average vehicle, the WRX is a magnet for law enforcement. Its rally-bred heritage begs to be driven hard.

  • Why it happens: Hood scoops, giant wings, and the distinct “rumble” of the boxer engine make it stand out.
  • 👉 CHECK PRICE on:

2. Kia Stinger

A surprising contender to some, but not to us. The Stinger is a legitimate sports sedan that caught many off guard—including the police, apparently. It has 43% more tickets than average.

  • Why it happens: It’s fast, looks aggressive, and is often driven by people who want BMW performance on a budget.
  • 👉 Shop Kia Stinger on: AutoTrader | Kia Official

3. Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86

These twins (and triplets) are lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports cars. They aren’t the fastest in a straight line, but they encourage corner-carving and drifting.

  • Why it happens: Often modified with loud exhausts and wide-body kits.
  • 👉 CHECK PRICE on: TrueCar | Toyota Official

4. Volkswagen GTI

The quintessential “Hot Hatch.” It’s practical, but it’s also quick. GTI drivers are known for weaving through traffic to keep that turbo spooled.

  • Why it happens: 36% more tickets than average. It’s the daily driver for the impatient.
  • 👉 Shop VW GTI on: Edmunds | VW Official

5. Mazda 3

Zoom-Zoom, indeed. The Mazda 3 is one of the best-handling economy cars, which encourages drivers to push the limits on twisty roads.

  • Why it happens: It handles better than it should, leading to higher cornering speeds.
  • 👉 CHECK PRICE on: TrueCar | Mazda Official

6. Dodge Challenger

It’s big, it’s loud, and it comes in colors like “Plum Crazy.” You can’t hide in a Challenger.

  • Why it happens: High horsepower + rear-wheel drive + loud V8s = Police attention.

7. Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Before Genesis became its own luxury brand, this coupe was the budget answer to the Infiniti G37. It attracts a younger demographic.

8. Honda Civic

The Volume King. As noted by HotCars, the Civic is the most pulled-over vehicle simply due to ubiquity. From the base model to the Type R, they are everywhere.

  • Why it happens: Statistical probability. Also, the “Civic Nation” loves aftermarket modifications.
  • 👉 Shop Honda Civic on: AutoTrader | Honda Official

9. Ford F-150

Similar to the Civic, this is the best-selling vehicle in America. You will see them pulled over constantly because there are millions of them.

10. Chevrolet Silverado

See “Ford F-150” above. Pickup trucks are also frequently stopped for equipment violations (lights, mud flaps) or aggressive driving.

11. Nissan 370Z

A dedicated two-seater sports car. You don’t buy a Z to drive the speed limit.

12. Infiniti G37 / Q50

These offer cheap horsepower and are heavily targeted in the secondary market by young enthusiasts who modify them extensively.

13. Dodge Ram 2500

Interestingly, heavy-duty trucks often rank high for DUIs and aggressive driving citations in various studies.

14. Toyota Camry

The “Invisible” car that isn’t invisible to radar. Because they are so common, they rack up a massive number of total tickets.

15. Audi A3

The entry-level luxury sedan. It attracts drivers who want the German autobahn experience on American highways.

🎨 Does Car Color Influence Getting Pulled Over? The Truth About Red Cars and More

Video: 5 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Get Pulled Over For.

We have all heard the legend: “Don’t buy a red sports car; the cops will see you from a mile away!” But is it true?

❌ The Myth: Red cars get the most tickets. ✅ The Reality: White cars get the most tickets.

Why? Because white is the most popular car color. It’s a numbers game. However, flashy colors (Yellow, Orange, Lime Green) do stand out visually. If you are speeding in a pack of cars, the officer’s eye might naturally be drawn to the “Solar Yellow” Jeep rather than the “Silver Metallic” Sedan.

For a shocking deep dive into this topic, read our feature: What Color Car Gets the Most Speeding Tickets? The Shocking Truth (2026) 🚦.

🚓 The Main Reasons Drivers Get Stopped and Ticketed by Police

Video: Passenger Rights in a Car Pulled Over By Police – Lehto’s Law Ep. 5.73.

It’s not always about how fast you are going. Police need “Probable Cause” or “Reasonable Suspicion” to stop you. Here is the breakdown of why the lights go on:

  1. Speeding (The Big One): Accounts for roughly 49% of stops.
  2. Equipment Violations: A burnt-out headlight, expired tags, or illegal window tint. These are “pretextual stops”—an excuse to pull you over and check for other crimes.
  3. Distracted Driving: Illegal cell phone use is easier to spot than you think.
  4. Hazardous Driving: Improper lane changes, tailgating, or running stop signs.
  5. The “Fix-It” Ticket: No front license plate (in states where required) or broken windshields.

🛑 Speeding, Reckless Driving, and Other Traffic Violations That Trigger Stops

Video: 12 Tips to Avoid Getting Pulled Over by the Cops.

There is a difference between going 10 mph over on the highway and weaving through traffic at 90 mph.

  • Speeding: Usually an infraction. You pay a fine, get points, and your insurance hates you.
  • Reckless Driving: This is a criminal offense in many states. It implies a “willful or wanton disregard” for safety. This can lead to license suspension or even jail time.
  • Aggressive Driving: Often linked to road rage. Tailgating, brake checking, and flashing lights fall here.

Pro Tip: Law enforcement uses advanced tech like the Kustom Signals Falcon HR and Talon radar guns. These devices feature Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and can clock the fastest vehicle in a pack, not just the closest one. You can’t hide behind a semi-truck anymore!

👮 ♂️ How Police Profile Vehicles: Myths vs. Reality

Video: How to Never Get Pulled Over Again | WheelHouse.

“Profiling” is a loaded word, but in the context of traffic enforcement, officers absolutely profile vehicles and behaviors.

  • The “Beater” Profile: A car with body damage, duct tape on the window, or a sagging bumper suggests the owner might not have money for maintenance… or insurance. Police know this often leads to citations for “No Insurance” or “Unregistered Vehicle.”
  • The “Racer” Profile: Stickers, large spoilers, neon lights, and loud exhausts signal a driver who likely speeds.
  • The “Rental” Profile: Newer cars with bar codes on the windows driven cautiously in drug corridors can sometimes attract attention for trafficking checks (though this is controversial).

“Law enforcement tends to target vehicles that are more prevalent on the roads or those associated with specific behaviors.” — HotCars

🛡️ Legitimate Ways to Contest a Traffic Ticket and Win

Video: Arrogant Police Officer Pulls Over Black Fbi Agent and Regrets It.

So, you got nabbed. Is it game over? Not necessarily. You have rights.

  1. Check for Errors: Did the officer write down the wrong make, model, or color of your car? Did they cite the wrong statute? These administrative errors can sometimes get a ticket dismissed.
  2. Request Evidence: You have the right to see the radar calibration records. If the device wasn’t calibrated recently, the reading might be inadmissible.
  3. The “Fruit of the Poisonous Tree”: As mentioned in our featured video analysis below, if the stop itself was unlawful (no probable cause), any evidence gathered (like a ticket) could be thrown out.
  4. Court Appearance: simply showing up can work. If the officer doesn’t appear, the judge often dismisses the case.

For more on comparing car brands and their reputations, visit our Car Brand Comparisons.

💡 Pro Tips to Avoid Getting Pulled Over: What We’ve Learned on the Road

Video: DUI checkpoint refusal to answer cops.

We have driven thousands of cars. Here is how we stay ticket-free:

  • Flow of Traffic: Don’t be the fastest car, and don’t be the slowest. Be the “grey man” in the middle.
  • Lane Discipline: Stay out of the left lane unless you are passing. “Left lane camping” is a magnet for troopers.
  • Waze is Your Friend: Use apps that crowd-source police locations.
  • Keep it Clean: A washed car looks cared for. A dirty car looks neglected. Police are less likely to hassle a respectable-looking vehicle.

🚗 Vehicle Modifications and Their Impact on Police Attention

Video: 15 Cars That Mechanics Would Never Buy.

We love mods, but they are a double-edged sword.

  • Window Tint: If the officer can’t see you, they get nervous. Dark tint is a primary reason for stops.
  • Loud Exhaust: Noise pollution laws are real. If your Civic sounds like a lawnmower on steroids, you are asking for it.
  • License Plate Frames: Believe it or not, frames that cover the state name or registration stickers are illegal in many states and are easy probable cause for a stop.

❄️ Winter Tires and Insurance: Can They Help Lower Your Premiums in Chicago, Illinois?

Video: chicago unmarked cops (plain clothes officers) on a traffic stop.

Driving in the Windy City? You know the drill. Snow, ice, and potholes the size of craters.

While winter tires themselves might not directly slash your premium like a “Safe Driver” discount, they prevent accidents. Avoiding that slide into a guardrail keeps your claims history clean, which definitely keeps your rates low. Some insurers are starting to offer discounts for safety equipment, so it’s worth asking your agent.

Video: Pulled Over by Police? 7 Things You Should Know! 👮♂️.

  • Telematics are taking over: Insurers are pushing for those “plug-in” devices or apps that track your braking and speed. If you drive a WRX like a grandma, this could save you money.
  • Rates are rising: Inflation and the cost of repairing modern cars (sensors, cameras) are driving premiums up across Illinois.
  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Essential in cities with high traffic density like Chicago.

Check out our Car Brand Market Shares to see which manufacturers are offering the best safety tech to combat these rising costs.

⚡️ FAST QUOTE & INSTANT COVERAGE! How to Get the Best Auto Insurance After a Ticket

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

Got a ticket? Your rate might jump 20-30%. Don’t panic. Shop around immediately.

  • Compare Quotes: Loyalty doesn’t pay in insurance. Switch carriers if your current one hikes your rate.
  • Bundle: Home + Auto is the classic saver.
  • Defensive Driving Course: Taking a certified course can often remove points from your license and lower your premium.

Need a quote now?

Video: LAWYER: Tips If Cops DEMAND To Search Your Car!

We reviewed a fantastic video on handling police interactions (see the summary above), and here is the distilled wisdom on how to protect your rights while staying safe.

  1. Pull Over Safely: Turn on your hazard lights, slow down, and find a safe spot.
  2. Engine Off, Light On: Turn off the car. If it’s night, turn on the interior dome light. Put your hands on the steering wheel (10 and 2).
  3. The “Protect Yourself Mode”:
    • Be Polite but Firm: You don’t have to answer “Where are you coming from?” or “Have you been drinking?” You can respectfully say, “I don’t answer questions.”
    • Request vs. Command: If an officer asks you to get out or turn off your camera, ask: “Sir, is that a request or a command?”
      • If it’s a request, you can decline.
      • If it’s a command, comply to avoid escalation, but fight it later in court.
  4. Record Everything: Start recording on your phone immediately. It is your objective witness.
  5. Do Not Consent to Searches: If asked, “Mind if I look in the trunk?”, the answer is “I do not consent to any searches.”
  6. Am I Free to Go? If the stop drags on (over 10 minutes), ask: “Officer, am I free to go?” If they say no, ask, “Am I under arrest?”

Crucial Advice: “Stick to it because a lot of people hang themselves before the lawyer is ever called.”

🧰 Essential Car Maintenance Tips to Avoid Police Stops

Video: Are you more likely to be pulled over? | The psychology of car colors.

Don’t give them a reason. Many stops happen because of neglect.

  • Check Your Bulbs: Walk around your car once a week. Check headlights, taillights, and specifically the license plate light.
  • Registration Stickers: Make sure they are current and placed correctly on the plate.
  • Cracked Windshields: In some states, a crack in the driver’s line of sight is illegal.

🔎 How Location and Time Affect Your Chances of Getting Pulled Over

Video: What To Do If You Are Pulled Over.

  • End of the Month: The “quota” system is officially denied by most departments, but statistically, ticket writing often spikes in the last few days of the month.
  • Late Nights (1 AM – 4 AM): This is prime time for DUI hunting. Even a minor swerve can get you stopped.
  • Small Towns: Driving through a small town with out-of-state plates? Slow down. Local revenue often depends on traffic fines.

📊 Statistical Insights: Which States Pull Over Drivers the Most?

Video: Police pull over state attorney.

Not all states are created equal. If you are driving through these areas, keep it on cruise control:

  1. Ohio: Famous for the Highway Patrol’s strict enforcement.
  2. Virginia: Speeding over 80 mph (or 20 over the limit) is reckless driving, a criminal misdemeanor.
  3. Florida: High volume of tourists + aggressive locals = constant police presence.

💬 Real Stories from Drivers: When and Why We Got Pulled Over

Video: Police pull over Florida state attorney.

The “Pizza Delivery” Incident: One of our team members was pulled over in a Mazda Miata. The officer asked why he was driving so aggressively. The truth? The pizza on the passenger seat was getting cold. The officer laughed, checked the license, and let him go with a warning. Lesson: Honesty (and hot food) sometimes helps.

The “Stock” Exhaust: Another editor was stopped in a Hyundai Veloster N. The officer claimed the exhaust was illegal. Our editor had to explain that the “pop and bang” mode was a factory setting from Hyundai. After a quick Google search by the officer, he was free to go. Lesson: Know your car’s specs.

For more lists of car brands that might keep you under the radar, check out our Car Brand Lists.

📝 Conclusion: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe and Ticket-Free

man driving white car

After cruising through the data, anecdotes, and expert insights, one thing is crystal clear: the car you drive can influence your chances of getting pulled over, but your driving behavior is the ultimate game-changer. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a Subaru WRX, a Honda Civic, or a Dodge Challenger, it’s how you handle the throttle, obey traffic laws, and maintain your vehicle that determines your fate with law enforcement.

Positives of Popular “Pulled-Over” Cars:

  • Many of these vehicles, like the Subaru WRX and Kia Stinger, offer thrilling performance at accessible prices.
  • They have strong enthusiast communities and aftermarket support.
  • Models like the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry are reliable, affordable, and ubiquitous.

Negatives:

  • Their popularity among younger or more aggressive drivers leads to higher ticket rates.
  • Modifications and aggressive driving habits can attract unwanted police attention.
  • Some models’ distinctive looks or sounds make them easy targets.

Our Confident Recommendation: If you love performance cars, embrace the fun—but drive responsibly. If you want to avoid tickets, consider a low-profile, well-maintained vehicle and practice defensive driving. Remember, your behavior behind the wheel outweighs any car’s reputation.

And about that lingering question—does car color matter? While flashy colors catch the eye, the most common ticketed cars are white simply because they dominate the roads. So, pick your color for style and personality, not fear of the flashing lights.

Drive smart, stay safe, and keep your record clean. Your wallet and peace of mind will thank you!

👉 Shop Popular Models Mentioned:

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Getting Pulled Over Answered

Police car with flashing lights on city street.

Who is most likely to be pulled over?

Drivers aged 18 to 24 are statistically the most likely to be pulled over. This is largely due to inexperience, risk-taking behavior, and a tendency to drive vehicles that attract police attention, such as sporty or modified cars. Additionally, drivers who commit traffic violations like speeding, distracted driving, or equipment infractions are more likely to be stopped regardless of age.

What color car gets the most tickets?

Despite the popular myth about red cars, white cars receive the most tickets. This is primarily because white is the most common car color on U.S. roads, representing about 35% of vehicles sold. The sheer volume means more white cars are pulled over simply by probability. However, bright or flashy colors may attract visual attention but don’t statistically lead to more tickets.

What is the least likely car to get pulled over?

Vehicles that are low-profile, well-maintained, and driven responsibly tend to have the lowest pull-over rates. This includes many luxury sedans with advanced safety features and family-oriented cars like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord when driven within the law. Cars without flashy modifications, loud exhausts, or aggressive styling are less likely to draw police attention.

Which car brands are most frequently stopped by police?

Brands like Subaru (WRX), Kia (Stinger), Volkswagen (GTI), Dodge (Challenger), and Honda (Civic) appear frequently on lists of cars most pulled over. This is due to a combination of vehicle performance, driver demographics, and popularity. The Subaru WRX, in particular, is notorious for a high rate of speeding tickets.

Do certain car colors increase the likelihood of getting pulled over?

While color alone isn’t a primary factor, bright or unusual colors can make a vehicle more noticeable to law enforcement. However, the most significant factor is the car’s behavior and condition. White cars get pulled over most often due to their prevalence, not because of color bias.

What factors contribute to a car being pulled over more often?

Several factors increase pull-over likelihood:

  • Driver behavior: Speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving.
  • Vehicle modifications: Loud exhausts, dark window tint, body kits.
  • Vehicle condition: Broken lights, expired registration, missing plates.
  • Car model reputation: Sports cars and affordable performance vehicles attract more attention.
  • Driver demographics: Younger drivers tend to be pulled over more.
  • Location and time: Certain states and times (late night, end of month) see more stops.

Are sports cars more likely to be stopped by law enforcement?

Yes, sports cars and sporty trims are more likely to be stopped due to their association with speeding and aggressive driving. Models like the Subaru WRX, Kia Stinger, and Volkswagen GTI have higher rates of traffic violations. However, responsible driving can mitigate this risk regardless of the car.

Can vehicle modifications increase chances of getting pulled over?

Absolutely. Modifications such as excessively dark window tint, loud aftermarket exhausts, and non-standard lighting can draw police attention and provide legal grounds for a stop.

Does insurance history affect traffic stops?

While insurance history doesn’t directly cause stops, drivers with poor records may be more scrutinized during stops, and lack of insurance is a common reason for citations.

For more expert insights on traffic enforcement technology, visit Kustom Signals Blog.

Thanks for riding along with Car Brands™! Stay safe out there and keep those wheels spinning responsibly. 🚗💨

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.

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