Fitting a GPS Car Tracker: Essential Insights!

Fitting a GPS Car Tracker: An Essential Step Against Car Theft

Car theft has become a pressing issue across the UK, with cities like London, Essex, Manchester, and Leeds experiencing a notable rise in incidents over the past few years. In this blog, we explore the alarming statistics and how a GPS car tracker can help protect your vehicle.

Car Theft Statistics Across the UK

1. London
   London leads the UK in vehicle theft, with over 32,000 cars stolen in 2022 alone. Popular boroughs like Enfield, Haringey, and Barking & Dagenham reported the highest theft rates, driven by a surge in keyless car thefts (​

   Fleet World

    

2. Essex
   Essex saw a sharp increase in thefts, particularly in suburban areas, with nearly 6,500 incidents recorded in 2022. The rise is attributed to criminals targeting high-value SUVs and luxury cars.

3. Manchester
   Manchester reported over 8,000 vehicle thefts in 2022, up from 6,700 in 2021. Keyless entry systems remain the top vulnerability, allowing thieves to steal cars within seconds.

4. Liverpool
   Liverpool recorded nearly 3,000 thefts last year, with CCTV footage often showing criminals using relay devices to bypass security systems.

5. Leeds
   In Leeds, vehicle thefts exceeded 3,500 in 2022. Residential neighborhoods and public car parks are particularly targeted.

6. Birmingham
   Birmingham, part of the West Midlands region, reported over 12,400 car th​

   Fleet World
   king one of the largest increases compared to pre-pandemic levels (Fleet World).

    

7. Nottingham
   Nottingham saw a 25% increase in thefts in 2022 compared to 2021, with a focus on high-value cars in residential areas.

8. Bristol
   Bristol recorded over 2,000 car thefts, with opportunistic crimes dominating the statistics.

Why Invest in a GPS Car Tracker?

Car theft tactics are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Tools to clone or mimic keyless systems are widely available, allowing thieves to steal vehicles without breaking a window or forcing a door. A GPS tracker provides real-time location tracking and, in many cases, immobilization, ensuring that your car can be recovered quickly if stolen.

At GPS-CarTrackers.com, we offer advanced security solutions such as:

• Smartrack S5 & iMob Trackers: Includes driver recognition and immobilization features.
• Meta Trak S7 & S5 Trackers: Designed for both affordability and security.
• Scorpion S5 Tracker: Offers reliable and precise tracking.
• Trackstar S5: Insurance-approved tracking for peace of mind.
• Autowatch Ghost 2: An immobilizer that prevents vehicle starting without the correct PIN.
• Scorpion X Immobiliser: Prevents theft even if your keys are cloned.

Real-Life Examples of Car Theft

• A CCTV clip from Essex showed thieves stealing a Range Rover within 60 seconds using a relay device, highlighting how keyless entry systems are vulnerable.
• In Manchester, a delivery van theft was caught on a doorbell camera, showing criminals targeting work vehicles left unattended for even short periods.

See here how easy these car thieves are taking cars from your driveway BBC Car Crime theft  

How to Protect Your Vehicle

1. Install a GPS Tracker: Real-time tracking is invaluable for quick recovery.
2. Use a Steering Lock: While old-fashioned, it acts as a visual deterrent.
3. Park Securely: Opt for well-lit, busy areas or secure parking facilities.
4. Install an Immobiliser: Devices like the Autowatch Ghost 2 prevent even the most advanced theft attempts.

Take Action Today

With car theft on the rise across all major UK cities, there’s no better time to invest in advanced security solutions. Browse our full range of trackers and immobilisers at GPS-CarTrackers.com and protect your vehicle from becoming another statistic.