The Most Frequently Stolen Cars in the UK

The risk of car theft is a growing concern for car owners in the UK, especially in bustling cities like London. Knowing which cars are most frequently targeted can help you take proactive steps to protect your vehicle. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 most stolen cars UK for 2023 and provide tips on how to keep your car safe. 

Top 10 Most Stolen Cars UK 2023

The most stolen cars in UK change each year due to shifts in thief preferences, market demand for specific models, and advancements in vehicle security technology. Thieves tend to target cars that are popular and have high resale values.

Is your car on the thieves’ wanted list and are you at above average risk of it being stolen? Let’s take a look:

Ford Fiesta

When asked, “What is the most stolen car in the UK?” the resounding answer is the Ford Fiesta, with 5,976 thefts in 2023. After 47 years of production and being one of Britain’s most popular cars, Ford has discontinued the Fiesta. The end of production of the Fiesta will also likely cause a shortage of spare parts in the years to come and that’s driving the increased level of thefts so the vehicles can be dismantled for parts.

Ford Focus

The Ford Focus also features highly on the list of most stolen cars in UK. In 2023, there were 2,120 Ford Focus thefts. Just like the Fiesta, the popularity of the Focus provides ample opportunities for thieves to target this vehicle.

Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is prized for its performance, reliability, and widespread popularity. Unfortunately, these qualities also make it one of the highest stolen cars. There were 2,038 VW Golfs stolen in 2023, an increase compared to 2022.

Mercedes C-Class

Luxury vehicles like the Mercedes C-Class are prime targets for thieves, seeing 1,786 thefts in 2023. This is a significant increase of 29.6% compared to 2022. Their high value makes them attractive for resale or parts.

Range Rover Sport

One of the main reasons why Range Rover insurance is so expensive is due to their high theft rates. The Range Rover Sport experienced 1,631 thefts in 2023. Although still considerable, a 28.6% decrease in thefts from previous years offers some relief to owners.

Range Rover Evoque

The Range Rover Evoque, another luxury SUV from the Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) Group, is among the most stolen cars in the UK. In 2023, it saw 1,489 thefts, ranking just behind the Range Rover Sport. While thefts decreased compared to 2022, the reduction was only a modest 2.8%.

BMW 3 Series

The BMW 3 Series features as one of the most stolen cars 2023, with a total of 1,466 reported thefts throughout the UK. This model is commonly stolen using advanced methods, such as key cloning and relay attacks. Owners should consider additional security measures to protect their vehicles from these sophisticated theft techniques.

Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Corsa is a popular choice for many drivers, but also for thieves. There were 1,110 reported thefts of the Vauxhall Corsa in 2023. Some good news is that this was a 13.3% reduction in thefts compared to 2022.

Vauxhall Astra

The Astra is another one of the most commonly stolen vehicles belonging to Vauxhall. This top seller means there are numerous Astras on the road, providing plentiful opportunities for theft. In 2023, there were 1,086 stolen, marking a 12.4% decrease from 2022.

Land Rover Discovery Sport

The Land Rover Discovery Sport is a luxury SUV that has a high market value, making it a target for parts or resale. The Discovery Sport has the lowest reported thefts of 954 in 2023, but owners should still be concerned as this is a 15.2% increase from 2022.

Comparing Car Thefts in 2023 to Previous Years

Despite advancements in car security, car theft in the UK is on the rise. In 2023, there were 64,087 reported vehicle thefts, compared to 61,106 in 2022. This marks a 4.9% increase, highlighting the growing need for enhanced vehicle protection.

Car thieves are constantly evolving their methods. Techniques such as keyless entry hacks and relay attacks are becoming more common. Staying informed about these methods can help you take better precautions to safeguard your car.

The Most Targeted Car Brands

Certain car brands are more frequently targeted by thieves. Popular brands like Ford and Vauxhall are often targeted due to their widespread availability. Luxury brands such as Mercedes, Land Rover, and Range Rover are also prime targets because their high value and advanced features make them especially attractive to thieves.

Whatever type of car you have, there is an increasing risk of it being stolen. If this happens, figures show that you’ve only got a 28% chance of getting your car back. Taking proactive steps to secure your vehicle can help you avoid the stress, frustration, and financial loss associated with car theft.

Tips to Protect Your Car from Theft

What can you do about it to avoid becoming another statistic? Here are some tips to help you protect against theft of vehicle:

Install Additional Security Devices

Installing additional security devices are often more effective and reliable than factory installed systems. Investing in professional installation ensures that your car’s security system is correctly set up and optimised for maximum protection.

Here are some top security devices to install:

• Ghost II Immobiliser: The Ghost II Immobiliser is an advanced anti-theft device that prevents your car from being started without a unique PIN code. It works silently and doesn’t use key fobs or LED indications that can give away its location.

• After Market Car Alarms: Aftermarket car alarms offer enhanced protection by alerting you and others when someone tries to tamper with your vehicle. These alarms can be more sensitive and feature-rich than standard factory-installed alarms.

• Tracking Devices: Installing a tracking device increases the chances of recovering your car if it gets stolen. It can also help lower your insurance premiums and improve your claims processes.

Park in Secure Locations

Always lock your car when unattended, ideally in a locked garage. If a garage isn’t available, choose a well-lit and busy area. Thieves are less likely to target cars in visible, high-traffic locations.

Be Aware of Electronic Theft Methods

Many thieves are opportunists so will only target cars that are obviously vulnerable. Professional thieves use electronic devices to jam door locking signals or to clone signals from keyless entry systems, allowing them to unlock and drive away your car. Staying informed about these methods and using signal-blocking pouches for keyless entry systems can help protect your vehicle.

Stay Vigilant in High-risk Areas

You’re more at risk of theft in big cities such as London, Manchester and Birmingham, so need to be particularly vigilant. Always park in well-lit, busy areas and avoid leaving valuables visible inside your car. Consider adding extra security measures like steering wheel locks to further deter thieves in these high-risk locations.

FAQs

Are old cars harder to steal?

Older cars can be easier to steal due to less advanced security features. Installing modern security devices, such as immobilisers, can enhance protection.

Are keyless cars harder to steal?

Keyless cars can be easier to steal if thieves use relay attacks. These attacks exploit the car’s keyless entry system.

Do electric cars get stolen in the UK?

Electric cars are also targeted by thieves in the UK. There is an 8% rise in EV thefts in the UK, with the most popular target being the Nissan Leaf.