Car Theft Is Up 74% in 10 Years: How to Protect Your Car and Wallet

If it feels like you’re hearing about car theft more often, you’re not imagining it. Police-recorded thefts in England and Wales are up 74% compared with a decade ago, the highest level in years, and recovery rates have fallen sharply. That’s a nasty combo for drivers of petrol, diesel, and hybrid cars: more risk, and a lower chance of getting your vehicle back.

This guide from Marsh Finance breaks down what’s changed, the models thieves are targeting, and the practical steps that actually make a difference, plus what to do if a financed car is stolen.

The State Of Car Theft In 2025: Quick Facts

• Thefts up 74% in a decade. 121,825 vehicles were stolen in the year to 31 March 2025, up from 70,216 in 2015.
• Recovery is weak. A recent analysis warns around two-thirds of stolen vehicles aren’t recovered, a big drop from recovery rates seen 10–15 years ago.
• Keyless theft is a big driver. Investigations show criminals continue to exploit weaknesses in keyless systems and on-board electronics, a major reason premiums have climbed.
• Certain models are targeted more. Lists built from DVLA data consistently show popular hatchbacks and SUVs among the most stolen. (Think Ford Fiesta/Focus, VW Golf, Toyota RAV4, various premium SUVs.)

Why The Risk Has Grown

1. Speed + tech
   Criminals now use cheap relay and emulator devices to mimic your key signal, access the car, and start it via the OBD port, often in under a minute. Some thefts are organised to export vehicles quickly, making recovery harder.
2. Parts demand
   Popular petrol, diesel, and hybrid models feed a hot spares market. That makes everyday family cars just as attractive as anything premium.
3. Low recovery
   When fewer cars are found, the crime becomes more profitable, and insurance claims (and premiums) trend up.

Are Some Brands/Models Riskier?

It changes year by year, but recent lists built from DVLA data and insurer reports show familiar nameplates near the top, largely because there are so many on the road and parts are in demand. Recent tables highlight Ford Fiesta/Focus, VW Golf, Toyota RAV4, BMW 3 Series, various Range Rover models, and others. If you drive a best-seller, the risk is usually higher simply due to volume.

The Anti-Theft Tactics That Actually Work (Ranked)

If you only do three things, start here. They’re boring, proven, and cheap compared with a claim excess.

1. Shut down the key signal
   Keep keys and spares in a proper Faraday pouch at home and on holiday; don’t store them near doors/windows. (Test the pouch: try unlocking while the key’s inside.)
2. Visible physical lock
   A Thatcham-approved steering-wheel lock or pedal lock puts off opportunists and slows pros. Thieves want quiet and quick — visible kit costs them both. (Insurers like it, too.)
3. Tracker + immobiliser (S5/S7)
   A Thatcham-rated tracker with driver ID fob or immobilisation drastically lifts recovery odds. If a theft becomes an export job, minutes matter.
4. Harden the OBD port
   Use an OBD port lock/cover or relocate it; many thefts involve plugging straight into the diagnostics port.
5. Park smart
   On the drive? Block in with another car or use a simple fold-down bollard. On-street? Choose lit, overlooked spaces; turn wheels to the kerb; keep valuables out of sight.
6. Marking & cameras
   VIN etching, wheel-lock nuts, and a basic camera/light covering your drive increase the chance thieves move on.

What to do if Your Financed Car is Stolen

1. Call 999/101 immediately to report the theft and get a crime reference number.
2. Tell your insurer and your lender (if you’re with Marsh, contact us straight away). Do not cancel your finance payments unless your lender/insurer confirms settlement, it can create arrears.
3. Provide all keys and documents your insurer requests quickly.
4. Check your GAP cover (if you have it). GAP can cover the difference between your insurer’s payout and the outstanding finance, especially useful if values have dropped.
5. Secure your home: reprogram garage remotes if the keys were taken from your house and replace Faraday pouches.

Insurance and Finance: Small Changes That Save you Money

• Tell your insurer about any extra security (steering lock, tracker), some offer discounts.
• Keep two keys safe and never leave the spare in the car; many claims fail on key evidence.
• If you’re shopping for a car on finance, ask about tracker requirements up front; some insurers require S5 on higher-value cars.
• Choose parking + security over convenience: the best anti-theft device is the one you’ll actually use every day.

The Bottom Line

Yes, car theft has surged over the last decade, and recoveries are far from guaranteed. But most thieves prefer the easy target. If you close the obvious gaps (keys, visible locks, trackers) and know the right steps if the worst happens, you dramatically tilt the odds back in your favour.

Apply For Car Finance With Marsh Finance

Protecting your car (and your wallet) starts with the right finance partner. At Marsh Finance, we’ve been helping drivers secure the cars they want, with the peace of mind they need, for over 50 years. Whether you’re looking for a hatchback, SUV, or something in between, we’ll guide you through every step, so you can focus on staying safe on the road.

👉 Apply for car finance with Marsh Finance today