With advanced technology and security systems becoming more prevalent, you’d think this would deter criminals from stealing cars. However, recent DVLA data acquired by confused.com shows car thefts are up by a quarter in the past year.
But how are they doing it, with modern vehicles geared up to prevent unwanted attention?
Insurance companies say thieves are savvier now as they have access to hi-tech methods to disrupt security systems to enable access more easily.
These methods include key cloning and relay theft, in which a transmitter intercepts signals and diverts them to a different transmitter. The thief doesn’t even need to be near you when they do it, either. This technology can work through doors and houses. So, if you keep your car keys in an accessible area to the technology, there’s a chance it could be cloned without your knowledge.
So, with car thefts on the rise, which models are being targeted?
Top stolen cars in the UK
From the recent data, the top spot is taken by Land Rover. Figures suggest that this brand is three times more likely to be stolen than the next model, Mercedes Benz. Of the 896,948 Land Rovers registered on UK roads, 8,284 were recorded as stolen – equating to 924 thefts out of 100,000 Land Rovers in the country.
The most common Land Rover thieves took a shine to is the Range Rover Velar R-Dyn, with the Range Rover Sport HSE Dyn and other variants coming in the top ten models on the theft list.
So, where do other brands place on the list? Check out the top ten below:
- Land Rover
- Mercedes-Benz
- Ford
- BMW
- Audi
- Toyota
- Fiat
- Volkswagen
- Vauxhall
- Hyundai
In regards to particular models, a few of the Lexus range and the Ford Fiesta Zetec S Red and Black Edition also proved a hit with opportunists.
Black cars are stolen most frequently
There’s an old myth that red is one of the most common car colours that appeal to thieves. However, instead the stolen car data highlighted that black cars made up a significant portion (18,000) of the models taken.
According to figures from several insurance companies, colours that blend in with the crowd are most likely to go missing. So shades such as white, silver and grey top the list alongside blue.
In contrast, bright colours are less likely to be taken due to the fact they stick out like a sore thumb on the roads. Plus, thieves often find it harder to pass them on, as they’re too noticeable. So, that could give you a reason to consider your car colour choice in the future.
Locations with the most car thefts
With stolen car numbers rising, you’ll probably be keen to know the areas with the biggest problem. Well, figures show the West Midlands as having the largest number of thefts, with 251 out of every 100,000 cars taken. This is closely followed by London. In comparison, places such as Dyfed in Wales see the lowest rates, with 22 per every 100,000 cars stolen.
Second-hand car market values may be spurring higher crime rates
Since the pandemic, the second-hand car market has seen a significant increase in the value of cars. According to figures from AX Track, the average cost of a second-hand vehicle in 2019 was £12,800. By February 2023, this rose to £17,654.
This increase is believed to be spurring criminals on and encouraging thefts due to the money that can be made. There’s also a problem with specific parts being taken from cars, such as catalytic converters, which has been an issue for a few years now.
Rise in possession theft from cars
It’s not just cars that are targeted. It’s what’s inside that’s appealing to opportunists. AA Insurance recently said there is a matched increase in people seeing possessions stolen from a car in the same period. As such, they urge everyone to remove belongings from vehicles to prevent this from happening. They also advise opting for visual theft deterrents such as a steering wheel lock, as sophisticated break-in techniques are proving too much, even for the most advanced car security systems.
So, with car thefts on the rise, what’s the best way to protect your vehicle?
Get an anti-RFID wallet
As key cloning is one of the most prevalent ways thieves steal cars, it’s vital to take measures to prevent this technology from infiltrating your key fob. An easy way to do this is by buying an anti-RFID wallet. Placing your keys into this wallet prevents anyone from accessing the signal to it.
Lock your car
This might sound obvious, but it’s surprising how many people walk away thinking they’ve pressed the fob and the car hasn’t registered the signal. Unlocked cars are a prime opportunity for thieves, and there are often reports of people seen trying vehicles for open doors and windows. So, remember to listen for the click to ensure it’s locked.
Install a vehicle tracker
While a tracker doesn’t deter someone from stealing your car, you’re more likely to get a tag on where it’s going or where it ends up. This information can help the police locate it, and hopefully, it’ll be returned without any issues.
Add a foldable bollard to your drive
Parking on a driveway is a great way to deter potential opportunists, as you’re more likely to hear what’s happening. But to make it even harder for unwanted guests to leave with your vehicle, a foldable bollard could help. Putting it up at night prevents someone from driving your car off the driveway, and if they try, you’ll undoubtedly hear the commotion.
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