Car Thieves Targeting Specific Models, Not Range Rovers
A recent study has shown that although motor thefts decreased by 4.5 per cent last year, there’s been a rise in the theft of newer vehicles. This has raised concerns about well-funded theft rings using advanced technology to bypass security systems on the latest models. The report highlights that between 2023 and 2024, there was a 6.6 per cent increase in thefts of vehicles less than three years old. One particular model is under heavy scrutiny from organized gangs.
Toyota Hilux owners have been advised to take extra precautions after statistics showed a 549 per cent spike in the theft of these vehicles within three years of being manufactured. According to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) database, 584 of these pick-ups were reported stolen last year. Local police forces have been responding to this surge in Hilux thefts, urging owners, especially farmers, to invest in vehicle trackers, steering wheel locks, and additional CCTV coverage.
While this news is bad for Toyota, whose sister brand Lexus has already been identified as the most targeted mainstream car brand in 2024, it is welcomed by Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), which received praise for its efforts to reduce thefts. JLR has invested millions in upgrading its vehicle security systems over the past 18 months.
The Hilux is known for its reliability and durability. It gained fame in the 2003 Top Gear series when an older model proved indestructible, even surviving being thrown from the top of a demolished building. However, the security systems in the latest generation of the Hilux, launched in 2016, are not as secure as one might expect. There is a high demand for this hardy Toyota in regions where most UK-stolen vehicles end up being shipped to, particularly in Africa, where its reputation for dependability has made it highly sought after.
According to a report by Thatcham Research, almost two out of five (38.5 per cent) of all stolen vehicles from Britain are transported to the Democratic Republic of Congo in Central Africa. Other top destinations include the UAE, Cyprus, Jamaica, and Georgia, driven by global shortages of car parts, high vehicle desirability, and geopolitical disruption.
Top Stolen Vehicles Less Than Three Years Old
- Toyota
- BMW
- Volkswagen
- Audi
- Kia
- Lexus
- Land Rover
- Hyundai
- Ford
- Mercedes-Benz
Additional Top Stolen Vehicles
- Toyota
- BMW
- Kia
- Volkswagen
- Ford
- Audi
- Hyundai
- Mercedes-Benz
- Vauxhall
- Nissan
Experts like Philip Swift of QuestGates suggest that the increased targeting of the Toyota Hilux reflects changing criminal behavior and the perceived value of certain models. He advises affected owners to take immediate steps to secure their vehicles.
Local police forces have also raised alarms about Hilux thefts. Bedfordshire Police urged owners to be cautious after 11 Hiluxes were stolen overnight in Luton. Nottinghamshire Police issued warnings after seven Hilux pick-ups were stolen across the country. North Yorkshire Police also advised Hilux owners, particularly farmers, to take immediate steps to secure their vehicles.
Sergeant David Lund of North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Task Force emphasized the importance of precautionary measures to reduce the risk of theft or damage. He recommended installing trackers and using strong theft deterrents such as steering wheel locks, immobilizers, and CCTV systems.
Kirsty Hyslop of NFU Mutual noted that pick-ups like the Hilux are essential for farming operations but are prime targets due to their popularity. West Mercia Police also warned about Hilux thefts, along with Ford Ranger pick-ups, which have also been targeted recently.
Toyota Investing £10 Million to Tackle Crimewave
Toyota Great Britain has invested millions in anti-theft solutions, including protective plates, immobilizers, blockers, and trackers. They conducted a trial with Tracker, providing free tracking services to selected customers at a cost of over £10 million. Despite some cars being stolen, a 96 per cent recovery rate was achieved. Toyota is rolling out Tracker installation as an option for buyers of certain models, including Hilux.
Better News for JLR
QuestGates praised JLR for its investment in vehicle security systems, which led to a significant decrease in thefts. JLR invested £15 million in upgrading anti-theft systems in its vehicles and provided a further £1 million to police operations around UK ports. The study showed that thefts of Land Rover models saw “substantial decreases,” with less than three-year-old Range Rover Evoque thefts down 77 per cent.
13 Tips to Beat Car Thieves
Experts from Thatcham Research, AA President Edmund King, and vehicle crime consultant Dr Ken German have compiled a list of 13 tips for car owners:
- Ensure your car is locked at all times.
- Avoid leaving your car engine running to defrost windows.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Check if your vehicle has a Thatcham-certified alarm, immobiliser, and tracking system.
- Use mechanical security systems like steering locks.
- Install a doorbell camera or CCTV at your home.
- Use a garage if possible.
- Think about where and how you park overnight.
- Check repair centre accreditation to avoid key cloning.
- Consider a dashcam or a car with theft alerts.
- Always wipe stored info before selling a car.
- Be aware of ‘locust’ thieves who strip cars.
- Stay alert to scam crash tactics used to steal cars.
