The top 10 items stolen from cars

As much as we rely on our cars for convenient transport, they can also become targets for opportunistic thieves. In the UK, vehicle break-ins and theft from cars remain a significant concern for motorists, with hundreds of thousands of incidents reported each year. From expensive gadgets to personal belongings, criminals are always on the lookout for valuable items left inside vehicles.

In this article, we'll explore the top 10 most commonly stolen items from cars in the UK. By understanding what thieves target most frequently, you can take proactive steps to protect your belongings and reduce the risk of falling victim to vehicle crime. We'll also provide practical tips and advice on how to keep your valuables safe while you're on the go, so you can have peace of mind wherever your journeys may take you. Read on to find out more… 

Top 10 most commonly stolen items from cars 

In the UK, the top 10 most commonly stolen items from cars are:

1. Smartphones and mobile devices
2. Laptops and tablets
3. Sat Navs
4. Purses, wallets, and cash
5. Backpacks, briefcases, and handbags
6. Sunglasses
7. Clothing and shoes
8. Tools (especially from work vehicles)
9. Car audio systems and stereos
10. Spare wheels and tyres

Does this list surprise you or would you expect to see these items as most commonly stolen from cars? To minimise the risk of theft, experts recommend never leaving valuable items in plain sight within your vehicle, always locking your car doors, and parking in well-lit and populated areas whenever possible. Installing additional security features such as alarms and immobilisers can also help deter potential thieves.

What is the most stolen item from a car in the UK?

The most frequently stolen item from cars in the UK is a smartphone or mobile device, such as tablets. Because almost everyone carries a smartphone or mobile device, they naturally become a common target for thieves. The fact is that smartphones and tablets are valuable and can be easily resold, making them attractive to criminals.

When popping to the shops or filling up with fuel, people often leave their phones in plain sight within their cars, making it easy for thieves to spot and risk breaking in. You’ll be surprised at how many drivers leave their car unlocked, making it even easier to steal a smartphone. 

How many cars get broken into each year in the UK?

According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), there were over 656,000 vehicle-related theft offences in England and Wales last year. This figure includes both theft of vehicles and theft from vehicles, which we’re discussing in this article.

It's important to note that not all incidents of vehicle break-ins are reported to the police, therefore, the actual number of cars broken into each year in the UK could be higher than the official statistics suggest.

Where in the UK are car break-ins most common?

Car break-ins are a problem throughout the UK, but some areas experience higher rates of vehicle crime than others. According to recent data, the regions and cities with the highest rates of car break-ins include:

• Greater London - The capital city consistently records the highest number of vehicle break-ins in the country, with some boroughs like Kensington and Chelsea, Westminster, and Enfield being particularly affected.
• Essex - Towns like Romford, Ilford, and Barking in Essex have reported high numbers of vehicle-related thefts in recent years.
• West Midlands - Cities like Birmingham, Coventry, and Wolverhampton have high rates of vehicle crime.
• Greater Manchester - Areas in Manchester like Salford and Oldham especially, experience a significant number of car break-ins.
• West Yorkshire - Cities such as Leeds and Bradford have higher than average rates of vehicle crime.
• South Yorkshire - Sheffield and Doncaster are among the cities in this region with elevated levels of car break-ins.
• Lancashire - Blackburn, Burnley, and Blackpool experience higher rates of car break-ins compared to the national average.

How to prevent thieves from targeting items in your car

There are several steps you can take to deter thieves from targeting personal belongings in your car, here we share our top 7 tips: 

1. Don't leave valuables in plain sight - Avoid leaving expensive items like smartphones, laptops, or bags visible inside your car. Take them with you or store them in the boot or glove compartment.
2. Always lock your doors - Make sure to lock your car doors every time you leave your vehicle, even if you're only stepping away for a short time.
3. Park in well-lit and busy areas - When possible, park your car in a well-lit, populated area. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in busy locations with good visibility.
4. Install an alarm system - A visible alarm system can act as a deterrent to potential thieves. Consider installing one if your vehicle doesn't have one already.
5. Tint your windows - Tinting your car windows makes it harder for people to see what's inside your vehicle, which can discourage potential thieves. Just make sure you stick to the rules when tinting front and back car windows in the UK.
6. Don't leave your car running unattended - Avoid leaving your car running while unattended, even if you're just stepping away for a moment to pop something through someone’s door.
7. Mark your valuables - Consider marking your valuables with your vehicle registration number or driver's licence number. This makes it easier to identify stolen items if they are recovered.

Stay up-to-date with vehicle security news

Here at Octane Finance, we make an effort to share news, top tips, helpful guides, and advice for our customers relating to vehicle finance, vehicle ownership, and the motor industry in general. Our blog section is brimming with information, videos, and recommendations when it comes to owning a car, van, or motorbike. 

Now you’ve discovered the most commonly stolen items from cars in the UK, why not find out what the most stolen cars are in the country? Our article reveals the top 5 car models thieves are most likely to target. Being aware of this information can help you protect your precious motor.