Auto theft declined nationally last year, but remains a threat in parts of Michigan. The Detroit area had nearly 20,000 automobiles stolen in 2011 ranking it the 11th worst location in the country.

The annual list of most stolen automobiles is always full of surprises and the 2011 list of most stolen vehicles in Michigan is especially unique.

Michigan thieves like to drive American, just like Michigan drivers. Considering so many Michigan cars are stolen from the Detroit area, it shouldn't be too big of a surprise.

Here's the full list of the most commonly stolen cars in Michigan in 2011:

Dodge Caravan - 2000 Chevrolet Impala - 2004 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) - 1997 Ford Taurus - 1997 Dodge Intrepid - 2002 Ford Pickup (Full Size) - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu - 2011 Dodge Stratus - 2002 Dodge Pickup (Full Size) - 2003

What can you do to prevent your vehicle from being stolen? The National Insurance Crime Bureau suggests four levels of protection: