New data by the AA has revealed that car thefts are on the rise in the UK, showing a surge in stolen vehicles.
The research shows that some brands of cars are more likely to be targeted than other as it highlights which ones are most at risk.
Tesco Bank was able to identify the motors that are most likely to be stolen and the rates at which they are claimed for by using insurance data.
The car brand most likely to be stolen in the UK
After analysing the data, Tesco Bank discovered that Ford models accounted for 17% of all claims, making them the most stolen.
Land Rover models were closely behind, accounting for 11% of claims.
Mercedes (10%), BMWs (8%) and Vauxhalls (8%) were also named among the most at-risk motoring brands.
Additionally, it was shown that black cars account for 26% of all claims in the UK, making them the most stolen colour.
Grey and white followed in at 19% and 17% of all claims.
40% of claims involved cars that were produced five to eight years ago, with cars made in 2016 having the highest likelihood of being stolen.
New analysis reveals the UK’s car theft hotspots
Subsequent investigation showed that Birmingham was the UK’s auto theft capital, accounting for 8% of claims involving thefts.
London accounted for 7% while Sheffield made up 6% of claims.
The majority of thefts are said to occur when drivers are asleep; 36% of claims state that the theft happened between midnight and 7 am.
Warning issued as thieves target ‘sought after’ car parts from certain brands
Even if a car isn’t taken directly, thieves frequently target them for their parts—especially the more expensive and difficult-to-find ones.
Dave Thompson, claims director at Tesco Bank, says: “While Land Rovers are sought after and can be sold on quickly, some models like Fords can be broken down pretty much overnight and sold on for parts the next morning.
“And while the precious metals in catalytic converters aren’t fetching as much as they once did, thieves are turning to other high-value parts such as the steering wheels in BMWs.”
