Warning as popular model becomes one of Britain's most stolen cars
There's been a massive spike in thefts of a specific car model, making it one of the most stolen vehicles in Britain.
Owners are being put on alert with thieves increasingly targeting the Toyota Hilux. A staggering 549% year-on-year increase in thefts was recorded in 2024, with over 580 vehicles stolen. The Japanese pick-up is reportedly becoming a prime target for organised crime gangs.
A spokesperson and motoring expert at BigWantsYourCar.com said: "The Hilux has become a goldmine for criminal gangs. It's valuable, and relatively easy to strip or ship overseas. Unfortunately, owners may not realise just how attractive it is to professional thieves." Meanwhile, drivers are told they can cut car insurance 'instantly' by telling their insurer one thing.
Warnings are increasing about gangs using electronic bypass kits and key cloning tech to silently override a vehicle's security system without smashing a window or forcing a door.
Billy Billingham, who has been working with BigWantsYourCar.com to investigate rising car crime, said: "Today was a shocking wake-up call into how bad car and key cloning has gotten in the UK. The fact that criminals can drive off with your car using a device bought online makes it clear how hard it is to trust the average buyer out there."
The spokesperson added: "Start with the basics: never leave your keys near the front door or windows. Key signals can be picked up from outside the house and replicated using cheap online gadgets. That's how relay theft works - the car thinks the key is next to it."
Mr Billingham also said to think about where you park, reports Birmingham Live. "If your drive is visible from the road, install a motion sensor light or CCTV." Alternatively, park where there is heavy foot traffic.
"A steering lock may feel outdated, but it still works. Criminals want fast, low-risk jobs. Anything that slows them down or risks drawing attention, like a flashing dash cam or a locked wheel, makes your car less appealing."
Billy added: "If you own a keyless car or drive one of these models, don't assume you're safe. Take it seriously. These criminals aren't just stealing cars - they're stealing livelihoods, time, and peace of mind."
Drivers have also been urged to park their motors beneath street lights due to the growing concerns over car thefts across the UK. Earlier this month, motorists were alerted to the rising trend of car cannibalism, where thieves take specific parts rather than stealing the whole vehicle.
Figures from Admiral Insurance reveal that parking sensor thefts rocketed fourfold between 2023 and 2024, whilst steering wheels have also caught the attention of criminals.
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