Rise of ‘car cannibals’: Thieves increasingly target specific car parts in a surging trend. Learn how to protect your vehicle from component theft.
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Car thieves have adopted a new modus operandi, shifting their focus from stealing entire vehicles to targeting specific car parts.
This emerging trend, known as car component theft or ‘car cannibalism,’ has been on the rise as criminals take advantage of the high demand for replacement parts and the lucrative black market for stolen vehicle components.
The surge in the value of car parts, compounded by supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict, has fueled this escalating criminal activity.
Changing Tactics: Thieves Opt for Car Parts
Stealing a complete car has become relatively simple for criminals with the availability of tools and resources on the internet.
However, the challenge lies in disposing of a stolen vehicle that can be easily identified through its number plate.
In response, thieves have shifted their tactics towards stealing individual car parts.
These components are either sold on the thriving black market or through online auction sites.
Legitimate sources for details include reputable retailers such as manufacturer dealerships and AA-approved garages, while illicitly obtained parts are often associated with less scrupulous establishments.
Surging Value of Car Parts
In recent years, the value of car parts has experienced a significant surge.
The global supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic, coupled with the scarcity of semiconductors, have severely impacted parts production worldwide.
Moreover, the invasion of Ukraine has exacerbated the situation.
Notably, approximately 40% of the world’s palladium, a precious metal used in catalytic converters, is located in Russia.
This geopolitical factor has fueled the widespread theft of catalytic converters, commonly referred to as “cats.”
Most Targeted Car Parts
Thieves are primarily interested in stealing specific car parts due to their high value and demand.
The following components are particularly vulnerable:
- Catalytic Converters: These devices contain valuable chemicals and can be stolen in less than a minute. While thieves can fetch a few hundred pounds for these components, vehicle owners face repair costs of around a thousand pounds. Hybrid vehicles, such as the Toyota Prius, possess even more valuable catalytic converters due to their pricier components. However, all petrol cars are at risk.
- Front End: Thieves may opt to steal the entire front end of a vehicle, including the bonnet, grille, bumper, radiator, and headlights. Reputable garages typically source approved parts for repairs, but less reputable establishments may use unverified alternatives, posing a risk to consumers.
- Airbags: The scarcity of airbag components caused by supply shortages has driven up their value, making them an attractive target for thieves. If a thief smashes your car’s driver-side window and removes the steering wheel, they are likely after the airbag components.
- Doors: Older and more basic car models, such as Land Rover’s original Defender, are often targeted for their entries. Although bodywork theft affects all vehicles, these specific models tend to be victimized more frequently.
Protecting Your Car from Component Theft
Implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of car component theft:
Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a secure location. If a garage is unavailable, select a parking spot that makes it difficult for thieves to access the underside of the car.
Enhance security by installing driveway lights and cameras, acting as deterrents to potential thieves.
Consider utilizing cat locks, an additional safeguard specifically designed to protect catalytic converters.
Tilt alarms that activate when the vehicle is tilted or jacked up can effectively deter thieves.
Using a car cover can make it harder for thieves to identify the car model and impede their ability to steal parts based on specific orders.
Share Your Experience
If you have been a victim of car part theft or have relevant experiences to share, we encourage you to provide your account in the comments section below.
Your stories contribute to raising awareness about this growing concern and promoting necessary precautions to protect vehicles from theft.
Car component theft is an escalating trend as thieves adapt their strategies to capitalize on the rising demand for replacement parts.
As the value of car parts continues to soar, car owners must remain vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard their vehicles, preventing these thefts from occurring.
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