Drivers told park your car in the garage' as 'epidemic' hits

Drivers are being urged to do one thing after a "worrying" rise in car cannibalism across the UK. Experts from My Motor World says drivers are facing a risk when they park their cars. For thieves are not only taking whole vehicles - or even just the wheels or hubcaps as in the past - but they are working quickly to strip the vehicle down and steal parts.

This can be anything from headlights and bumpers to doors and bonnets. Claims data from Admiral Insurance show thefts of parking sensors quadrupled from 2023 to 2024 with steering wheels also being targeted by thieves.

The trend of stripping vehicles back to get the parts has also seen an increase in illegal "chop shops" where car components are sold on the black market. But experts say there are some things you can do to keep your vehicle safe.

And the key way to safeguard your car from criminals is to keep it hidden from sight. And there are things you can do even when the theft is in progress or to potentially retrieve your stolen parts after any theft, reports Birmingham Live.

You should always position your car in a secure location, even when parking for brief periods. Ideally if you are having a longer stay use a private car park or garage as they are the most secure. They are usually locked and have CCTV or alternative security measures in place.

If you don't have access to one of these, then a well-illuminated area with plenty of pedestrian traffic could potentially give sufficient deterrent. Since thieves often target parts at the front of the vehicle, drivers should also park facing a wall where possible to make the theft more challenging.

You should always ensure your vehicle is secured and make sure you have your keys with you. Not only is this safer, but many car insurance policies won't pay out if you haven't properly secured your car.

While it is doubtful you will ever be reunited with any stolen parts marking them can aid the police in identifying them, which means there's a chance you could retrieve your stolen components.

In some instances, marked parts can also act as a deterrent if the thief spots the markings, as they'll be less keen to take a part that can be traced. Buyers of the parts might also realise that they've been stolen and might be more likely to ring the police

Mark Barclay, Head of Ecommerce at My Motor World, said: "Like grand theft auto, car cannibalism is another big worry for car owners. Because the parts that are stolen are so hard to retrieve and are of comparatively little value, it's very unlikely you'll get them back. Taking precautions against theft and ensuring you have insurance are the best ways to protect your car from cannibalism.

"You may find it useful to keep a supply of spares in your home or a secure garage, particularly for parts like lights. If your vehicle is cannibalised, you can then quickly install a new part and be back on the road in no time."