Newer Honda models targeted for airbag and sensor thefts in New Jersey

Newer Honda models in New Jersey are being targeted for driver-side airbag and front-grille collision sensor thefts.

Police departments across Bergen, Passaic, and Essex counties, as well as border communities in eastern Pennsylvania, report clusters of targeted thefts hitting Honda CR-Vs, Civics, and Accords parked in residential driveways overnight.

In October 2026, a multi-agency raid at an auto wrecker in Paterson recovered more than $100,000 in stolen parts, including over 50 front radar modules, airbags, and control units.

Thieves use electronic signal-relay attacks to clone key fob codes through exterior home walls to steal steering wheel airbags in 60 to 90 seconds.

Crews also pry the emblem from the front grille of 2023, present CR-Vs to unclip and steal the millimeter-wave collision radar.

Repair costs routinely climb between $3,000 and $7,000 when accounting for replacement hardware, wire harness repairs, and specialized dealer recalibration for Honda Sensing safety features.

Insurers handle these claims under comprehensive coverage, though supply delays for radar modules and airbags often leave affected vehicles undriveable for weeks.

Police recommend keeping wireless key fobs inside RFID-blocking Faraday bags or metal containers away from front doors, fitting aftermarket anti-theft metal guard plates over the front radar housing, and parking vehicles nose-in against garages, walls, or fences.

Owners of newer Honda models in New Jersey and border communities in Pennsylvania should secure key fobs and consider anti-theft guards for radar housings.