British motorists have been warned of a rise in 'car cannibalism', where parked cars are stripped for parts amid an increase in illegal 'chop shops'. According to claims data from Admiral Insurance, theft of parking sensors quadrupled from 2023 to 2024, and steering wheels have also become a common target.
Motorists are advised to protect their vehicles by parking in a locked garage or a well-lit area with high footfall. Parking facing a wall can help, as many stolen parts are from the front. Always ensure the car is locked and keys are removed, as insurance premiums may not pay out if a vehicle was not properly secured.
Mark Barclay, Head of Ecommerce at My Motor World, commented: 'Like grand theft auto, car cannibalism is another big worry for car owners. Because the parts that are stolen are so hard to retrieve and are of comparatively little value, it’s very unlikely you’ll get them back. Taking precautions against theft and ensuring you have insurance are the best ways to protect your car from cannibalism.'
While recovering stolen parts is unlikely, marking them can aid police identification and potentially deter thieves. Keeping spare parts at home may also help if your vehicle is targeted.
