Convicted thieves have disclosed the easiest items to steal from cars, contributing to a total theft value of £109 million in the past two years. The average victim loses possessions worth £618, resulting in approximately 540 thefts per day in 2022. The most commonly stolen items include number plates, catalytic converters, electronic components, bike racks, and roof boxes. The highest rate of car theft per 1,000 population in the last two years is in London at 14.39, followed closely by the West Midlands and Greater Manchester. Avon and Somerset experienced the largest annual increase in car theft reports, with a 48% rise. The total value of stolen possessions from vehicles in 2022 surpassed £61 million, a 27% increase from the £48 million stolen in 2021.

A study conducted by Direct Line and the University of Huddersfield revealed insights from convicted Thieves. They mentioned that car stereos were once lucrative, with earnings of £60 to £80 per unit. However, as car stereos went out of fashion, thieves shifted to targeting satnavs. One thief claimed to have obtained £10,000 from a car boot safe and returned two nights later to steal an additional £20,000. Another emphasized the importance of opportunistic Theft from vehicles, particularly if valuable items such as laptops or electrical devices are visible. Unlocked cars are also prime targets, as thieves can easily identify them by checking wing mirrors and observing red flashing lights.

Lorraine Price, the head of motor insurance at Direct Line, highlighted the distress and inconvenience caused by Car Theft. She advised car owners to take precautions, such as avoiding leaving valuables in their vehicles and understanding the coverage provided by their motor insurance policies. The article additionally mentions a video capturing thieves stealing a catalytic converter from an NHS worker’s car in Dulwich Village, London.

To reduce the risk of theft from cars, it is recommended to always lock the vehicle, even if left unattended for a brief period, and to avoid leaving keys inside. Valuables should be kept out of sight, especially if leaving them in the car temporarily. It is advisable not to leave items of value in the car overnight. Maintaining a clean and tidy car may also deter thieves. Installing a motion-sensor alarm with a recorded voice can provide an additional layer of security.

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