Asger Risom
Parts theft is on the rise across the UK, fuelling an illegal market for stolen car components. Here’s what you need to know—and how to reduce your risk.
Parts theft is on the rise across the UK, fuelling an illegal market for stolen car components. Here’s what you need to know—and how to reduce your risk.
A New Kind of Car Theft
‘Car cannibalism’ involves thieves stripping parts from vehicles and selling them on the black market. Targets include sensors, wing mirrors, steering wheels, and even car emblems.
The Scale of the Problem
Data from Admiral Insurance shows thefts of parking sensors jumped 400% between 2023 and 2024. Demand from illegal chop shops is fuelling this rapid growth.
High-Value Targets
Some stolen items, like airbags, cost over £1,200 new but can be sold illegally for a fraction of the price. Wing mirrors, catalytic converters, and wheels are also in high demand.
Why Parts Theft Is Hard to Stop
Unlike organised car theft, parts theft is often opportunistic, triggered by online posts from people looking for specific components.
Park Smart
Whenever possible, park in a private garage or secure car park covered by CCTV. If that’s not an option, choose a well-lit area with high foot traffic.
Mark Your Parts
Marking key components with identifiable markings can help police trace them if recovered, although stolen parts are often hard to reclaim.
Keep Spare Essentials
For frequently stolen items such as lights, consider keeping spares in a secure location so you can quickly get your car back on the road if targeted.
Avoid the Black Market
Buying second-hand parts from unverified sources fuels the cycle. Stick to reputable sellers or schemes like eBay’s Certified Recycled programme.
