Having your car stolen is every owner’s worst nightmare but is it always simply a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time?
Research from vehicle tracking service Tracker has revealed the most stolen cars in the UK last year and it appears that the cars most popular with thieves all have something in common.
Owners of German vehicles may want to start taking extra precautions….
The most stolen cars in the UK
Of the top ten most stolen cars in the UK, German made cars take seven spots with the Mercedes-Benz C Class receiving the unwanted honour as the most targeted vehicle type.
Other German vehicles on the list include three BMW models, a further Mercedes-Benz, an Audi and a Volkswagen.
In 2016 the C Class was only the fourth most stolen model, but thanks to more sophisticated techniques used by thieves, luxurious cars like the Merc and the BMW X5 which came second in the list, are now easier for thieves to target.
These more expensive models are becoming easier targets despite their increased security thanks to modern hacking like the ‘relay’ technique.
This involves two thieves, one near the luxury car and the other in range of the keys. Then, using a cheap tool which relays the key’s signal from the first thief to the one standing near the vehicle.
It can take just a few seconds to pick up the signal and the car could be gone while your back is turned.
The full list of the most stolen cars in the UK in 2017:
1. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2. BMW X5
3. Range Rover Sport
4. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
5. BMW 3 Series
6. Land Rover Discovery
7. Range Rover Autobiography
8. BMW M3
9. VW Golf
10. Audi RS4
If you own one of the most targeted vehicles or just want to increase the security of your vehicle, it’s recommended that you keep your keys well hidden when out and about and ensure you keep an eye out for anyone lurking near you or your vehicle.
It’s also recommended that drivers invest in a steering lock which can be a deterrent even if thieves use the ‘relay attack’ technique.
At home, drivers are advised to keep their keys away from the front door and if possible, keep them in a locked metal box or in the fridge or microwave. The metal lining blocks the radio signal from getting through, stopping ‘relay’ devices from being used.
