Is your car one of the most targeted in 2024?

Here’s an unpleasant truth – over the past few years, car thefts have been on the rise here in the UK. Over 130,000 vehicles were reported stolen in 2023, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Now, the logical thing to happen would be that with cars getting more sophisticated, they should be harder to steal. The (absurd) truth though is that the opposite is happening – some cars are actually getting easier to steal due to the introduction of keyless systems.

In theory, these keyless systems are supposed to make it more convenient for drivers, who only need to move into close proximity to the car, and the signal from their key fob will unlock it for them. In practice though, practised criminals are often using specialised equipment to hijack these signals from outside, unlocking the car remotely. All the cars on this list are known to have been subject to this issue. Thieves also prey on cars that are in high demand on the second-hand market, particularly for spare parts.

That’s where low-tech solutions like driveway bollards can come in handy. They’re study, solid obstacles that can only be bypassed by people with the correct access, and cannot be hacked, or tricked, or spoofed. It’s a solution that’s definitely worth bearing in mind as we take you through the top five most targeted cars of 2024, based on theft data and trends from the previous year. Is your vehicle on the list?

Ford Fiesta – 5,976 stolen

Despite its discontinuation in 2023, the Ford Fiesta continues to be the most stolen car in the UK. It remains a popular vehicle on the road, meaning there’s a large number of them still in circulation. Nearly 6,000 Fiestas were reported stolen last year, and as demand for parts increases due to the end of production, it’s expected that thefts of this model will prove to have risen again when stats are collected at the end of 2024.

The Fiesta’s popularity has always made it a target for thieves, as its components – such as engines, gearboxes, and headlights – are valuable on the black market. Its compact size and widespread use as a first car or city runabout make it appealing to a wide audience, and thieves can easily sell stolen parts to owners who need affordable replacements. Even though it’s no longer being manufactured, the Fiesta’s legacy on UK roads ensures that it remains a hot commodity for car thieves – so if you drive one, it’s definitely worth thinking about how best you’re going to protect it.

Ford Focus – 2,120 stolen

The Ford Focus is another highly sought-after car, with over 2,000 reported thefts in 2023. The Focus has been a staple on UK roads for years, and like the Fiesta, its parts are in constant demand. Whether it’s for servicing, repairs, or customising, Focus parts are easy to move in the underground market – especially engines and electronics.

What’s more, the Focus has broad appeal, used by families, commuters, and businesses alike. This makes it an ideal target for thieves looking to quickly offload stolen parts to a wide range of buyers. The versatility of the Focus, with its practical design and affordability, ensures that it will probably continue to be a favourite among criminals in 2024. Whether you’re a fleet owner or private driver, it’s best to be vigilant.

VW Golf – 2,038 stolen

With over 2,000 units stolen last year, the Volkswagen Golf is another frequent target for thieves. Known for its performance and style, the Golf appeals to both everyday drivers and car enthusiasts, which unfortunately makes it a prime candidate for theft. This model, especially the GTI and R variants, is highly prized for its parts, such as alloy wheels, high-performance brakes, and electronics.

Thieves are often drawn to the Golf not only because of its widespread popularity but also its relatively high resale value. Stolen Golfs or their parts can fetch significant sums on the second-hand market, whether sold locally or shipped abroad. Furthermore, the Golf has a strong aftermarket scene, meaning that components like body kits, exhaust systems, and custom modifications are always in demand. All that means that additional security measures can go a long way in protecting your car from theft in 2024 – especially if you own a high-spec model!

Mercedes-Benz C-Class – 1,786 stolen

Luxury cars like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class are highly coveted by thieves, not just for their value, but for their prestige. With nearly 1,800 thefts reported in 2023, the C-Class is a favourite for organised crime groups. It’s not uncommon for these cars to be stolen and quickly exported to international markets, where they can fetch even higher prices.

The C-Class is packed with high-value parts, such as its luxury interior components, state-of-the-art infotainment systems, and powerful engines. Thieves target these features to either strip the car for parts or resell it whole in overseas markets where demand for luxury vehicles is high. Additionally, high-end vehicles like the C-Class are often targeted because of their advanced technology, including sensors and adaptive systems, which are in demand for other luxury car repairs or illegal modifications.

It’s something of an irony, then, for such a high-tech car, one of the most effective ways to protect it is a relatively low-tech solution – the humble driveway bollard!

Range Rover Sport – 1,631 stolen

With over 1,600 thefts in 2023, the Range Rover Sport remains one of the most targeted luxury SUVs. Its combination of status, luxury, and performance makes it highly desirable, not just for owners but also for thieves. The Range Rover Sport is often targeted for its high resale value, either as a complete vehicle or through the sale of its parts, such as suspension systems, premium leather interiors, and cutting-edge electronics.

Thieves may also target this vehicle for export, as Range Rovers are popular in international markets, where they are often sold at a premium. The Sport’s powerful engine and off-road capability add to its allure, making it attractive to those seeking performance vehicles in regions where luxury 4x4s are scarce. If you’re looking for the best way to protect your Range Rover, it’s probably best to look at some of the heavier and sturdier driveway bollards, so you can have peace of mind considering the car’s relative size.

And if you’re looking for bollards and driveway posts to protect your property, that’s exactly where we can help here at Bollard Security. For over 15 years we’ve been installing and maintaining security solutions across the UK for domestic, commercial, and industrial sectors, and we take pride in providing quality products that give our customers peace of mind. Don’t hesitate to contact us on 01535 509001 for advice and recommendations on the best driveway bollards or Telescopic Bollards for you!