Big increase in thefts of Toyota and Lexus cars

CAR thieves are increasingly turning their attention to certain car models, following a surge in the number stolen last year.

Police chiefs have named the makes they are worried about and are warning owners of these motors to be on their guard.

While Fords remain the most commonly stolen type of vehicle in the West Midlands, thefts of other vehicles are on the rise including Toyota, Hyundai, Kia and Lexus.

There has been a surge in thefts of all of the makes over the last 12 months.

Police also warned it’s easier than ever for crooks to steal cars as tricks to get around security features mean they can unlock them and drive away “in seconds”.

There was a massive 408% rise in the number of Lexus models stolen in 2023 in the West Midlands compared with the year before, rising from 26 to 132. Toyota thefts surged by 109%, Hyundai 105% and Kia 84%.

And while Ford remains comfortably the most stolen type of vehicle with almost 3,000 in the region last year, incidents actually fell by 20% from 2022.

The rise in interest in other models has prompted warnings for owners to take steps to protect their motors. A spokesman for the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner’s

Office said: “Fords remain in top spot for the total number stolen, but the number has dropped by more than 700 from 2022.

“Instead, thieves are increasingly turning their attention to Toyota, Hyundai, Kia and Lexus, all of which have seen a big increase in the numbers stolen in the last year.

“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.

“Luxury car brands like BMW,

Audi, Jaguar, and Lexus feature prominently in the list, suggesting that thieves may target these vehicles due to their perceived higher value. Despite their smaller market share compared to mainstream brands, these luxury models are still prone to theft, emphasising the need for robust security measures across all vehicle segments.”

The Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster, added: “Criminals are finding ever more sophisticated ways of getting around car security features and it is something that is deeply concerning.

“Cars are sometimes being stolen in less than a minute, as people sleep in their beds.”