🚨 Stolen Vehicle Trends in the West Midlands

How to Protect Your Car

The West Midlands has become one of the UK's most targeted regions for vehicle theft and 2025 is showing no signs of slowing down. Whether you drive a performance car, a luxury SUV, or a commercial van, it’s time to take vehicle security seriously.

At Shield Automotive, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating car theft can be. Here's what’s happening across the region and what you can do to protect your vehicle before it's too late.

📊 Vehicle Theft in the West Midlands: The Hard Truth

According to recent police reports and insurance data:

• Over 15,000 vehicles were stolen in the West Midlands in the last 12 months

• Areas like Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Walsall, and Solihull report the highest rates

• Keyless entry thefts (relay attacks) account for more than 70% of modern car thefts.

🔍 How Are Thieves Stealing Cars?

Modern thieves use hi-tech devices to:

1. Scan and relay your key signal from inside your home

2. Bypass factory alarms using diagnostic tools

3. Drive off silently in under 2 minutes, often without breaking a window

These methods leave no signs of forced entry, making insurance claims harder and increasing the likelihood your car is never recovered.

🛡️ How to Protect Your Vehicle in the West Midlands

1. Install a Ghost Immobiliser

The Autowatch Ghost II stops the car from starting without your custom PIN code — even if they have your key.

2. Fit a Thatcham-Approved GPS Tracker

Trackers like the Metatrak S5 allow real-time location tracking and instant police alerts if your car is stolen.

3. Use Visible Deterrents

Steering wheel locks, window etching, and CCTV signs can scare off opportunists.

4. Park Smarter

Always park in well-lit, secure areas — especially overnight. Avoid leaving vehicles on open driveways without protection.

5. Don’t Rely on Factory Security

OEM systems are often vulnerable to hacking. Thieves know the weaknesses of most factory alarms.

📞 Don’t Wait Until It Happens to You

If you live in or around:

• Birmingham

• Cannock

• Wolverhampton

• Telford

• West Midlands or Shropshire

…Shield Automotive offers fast, mobile installation of advanced anti-theft systems at your home or workplace.

💡 Final Thoughts

Vehicle theft in the West Midlands is real — and it's happening every single day. But with the right protection, you can stay one step ahead of modern car thieves.