‘Small cars most at risk of vandalism’

SMALL cars such as Smart cars and Minis are most at risk from vandalism, new research suggests.

More than one in every 100 Smart cars falls victim to vandalism every year, while Mini owners are the second-highest at-risk group, with a claim for every thousand each year.

Alfa Romeos, BMWs and Mazdas round out the top five vehicles targeted by vandals.

The analysis, by Churchill Car Insurance, on claims from 2013-17, reveals that the most frequent type (15%) of vehicle vandalism is cosmetic damage such as scratches, followed by front bumper damage (12%) and front door (12%) damage.

Motorists have also been warned to take extra care of vehicles during October, when the most claims for vandalism are made, with Halloween pranks being a potential factor.

Car insurance claims for vandalism in October rise by 8% compared with the annual average, while in December they fall by 12%.

Steve Barrett, head of Car Insurance at Churchill, said: “A moment of anger or mindlessness on the part of a vandal can cause victims long-lasting stress and a large amount of money.

“We strongly advise victims report vandalism to the police, even if the damage is only minor.”

“If repairs aren’t made to even small scratches and dents, the condition of the vehicle could impact the resale value.”