October to December are the most active months of the year for criminals stealing cars, with a peak in thefts in November, research from Tracker Network reveals.

With the Home Office reporting 101,198 vehicle thefts in 2021, the stolen vehicle recovery expert says that drivers need to be extra vigilant about security during the countdown to Christmas.

“It’s probably unsurprising that the darker nights lead to an increase in the number of vehicles being stolen, as it offers thieves a greater window of opportunity to act undetected,” said Clive Wain, head of police liaison at Tracker.

“However, our data strongly indicates that November is a time people should be most on their guard. Whilst the theft of a vehicle is hard to bear at any time, with the cost-of-living crisis having a significant impact on most people’s finances, the burden could be all the greater this autumn.”

It’s not just high value vehicles such as prestige 4x4s that are hot targets for thieves, reports Tracker.  A global lack of good quality used vehicles, alongside spare parts shortages, are increasing the desirability of older, lower value cars, vans and motorcycles.

Vehicles are often stolen and stripped for their parts in chop shops or stolen to order to be shipped abroad to meet international demand.

Wain continued: “We always encourage drivers to use traditional security deterrents such as crook locks and wheel clamps to deter criminals and protect their vehicles.

“An investment in smart doorbells or a CCTV system are also increasingly popular amongst those keen to guard against unwanted visitors.

“However, in the event of a theft, stolen vehicle tracking technology will significantly help police quickly close the net on thieves and return the vehicle to its rightful owner.” 

Tracker has a stolen vehicle recovery rate of more than 95%, with 80% of those stolen vehicles recovered within 24 hours, thanks to its nationwide partnership with the UK’s police.

Tracker’s solutions work like an electronic homing device. A covert transmitter is hidden in one of several dozen places around the vehicle.

Tracker’s Security Advice

• At home, don’t keep keys in a place where they can be seen or accessed from outside.
• If your vehicle has a keyless car entry system consider storing your keys – both sets – in a metal tin or Faraday pouch to block the signal against relay attack technology.
• Never leave the keys in the vehicle’s ignition when you are stepping away from the vehicle, even if you are just jumping out quickly.
• Never leave your car running unattended when de-icing.
• Always lock and secure your vehicle.
• Do not leave belongings or technology items on display, such as satnavs or mobile telephones. Take them with you or lock them in the boot.
• Never leave car documents or spare keys inside the car – this only makes it easier for thieves to sell it on.
• Park in busy or well-lit and attended car parks near CCTV cameras.
• If you have a garage, use it to park your car.
• Consider fitting a tracking device to help police recover your vehicle if it’s stolen.