FORD and Land Rover were the top car makes stolen in 2022 according to police data.
Thieves made off with 3,677 Ford models during the period – a 33 per cent increase on the 2,765 recorded in 2021 – making it the most-targeted manufacturer in the West Midlands.
The figures, released by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Simon Foster, revealed 1,047 Land Rovers were taken during 2022 – a 76 per cent increase on the previous year.
Fiats saw the second biggest percentage increase in vehicle thefts, rising by 65 per cent from 196 to 324.
In total 13,634 cars were stolen from across the region in 2022.
The PCC said he had published the annual data to shine a light on the issue and to ensure vehicle manufacturers went further, to improve vehicle security and to inform motorists about which cars are less likely to be stolen, so the information can guide their decision when buying a car.
Mr Foster added many of the cars being stolen were taken to illegal garages, otherwise known as chop-shops. There, they are cut up and sold for parts on the black market.
Some thieves are known to get around the onboard car security features in a matter of seconds, allowing them to drive off with the vehicle whilst the owner sleeps at night.
This can involve copying digital keys or boosting a car fob signal to trick the car into opening its doors and allowing its engine to start.
Mr Foster said: “These criminals are increasingly finding new ways of getting around car security features and it’s deeply concerning.
“Cars are sometimes being stolen in less than a minute, as people sleep in their beds.
“We need manufacturers to do much more, to ensure that car security is a top priority and fit for purpose.
“Demand for stolen cars and stolen car parts has boomed and it is encouraging thieves to steal more and more vehicles.”
He added he had also asked West Midlands Police to prioritise car crime and to go after the organised criminals profiting from the theft.
Police recommend drivers use a full steering wheel lock that covers the steering wheel, keep keys in faraday pouches or metal tins so the signal cannot be captured and to ensure the car is locked when parked.
