More than a quarter of UK drivers have suffered vehicle theft, vandalism or damage in the past year, according to new research.

It highlights growing concerns about car crime and its impact on motorists, insurance costs and road safety.

After decades of lower car thefts and vandalism, it appears to be on the rise again.

It’s gone

RAC findings reveal that 26% of drivers experienced some form of vehicle crime in the last 12 months.

These range from stolen cars and car parts, through to deliberate vandalism and hit-and-run damage while parked.

The figures point to a persistent and widespread problem, particularly in urban areas.

Nearly half, 45% of drivers living in towns and cities, said they had been affected, compared with 20% in suburban areas and 15% in rural locations.

Among the most common offences reported were deliberate scratches and dents, theft of personal belongings from inside vehicles, and the theft of parts such as catalytic converters, wheels, and steering wheels.

Around 6% of drivers nationally reported having their vehicle stolen, while others said they had returned to parked cars to find damage caused by other motorists who failed to leave a note.

The firm

Experts say the findings reflect a shift in vehicle crime over recent years, with theft becoming increasingly sophisticated and organised.

Jonathan Hewett, chief executive of vehicle security authority Thatcham Research, warned that modern car crime is now often driven by criminal networks rather than opportunistic thieves.

“Vehicle theft is no longer just opportunistic, it’s increasingly driven by organised criminal gangs using sophisticated methods,” he said, pointing to technologies such as keyless entry hacking and vehicle cloning.

The RAC said the emotional and financial impact of car crime can be significant.

Simon Williams, an RAC spokesperson, said theft and vandalism can be both distressing and costly for motorists.

“Having a vehicle vandalised is unbelievably annoying and expensive, but having one stolen is a horrible violation and incredibly stressful to resolve,” he said. “Every incident contributes to higher insurance costs, which are already a major concern for drivers.”

Tech savvy

Motoring organisations warn that the problem has evolved alongside advances in vehicle technology.

While modern cars often include improved security features, criminals have adapted, using electronic tools to intercept keyless signals or manipulate onboard systems.

At the same time, shortages of replacement parts and rising repair costs have made stolen components more valuable on the black market.

The increase in reported incidents comes amid wider concerns about the cost of motoring.

Insurance premiums have risen sharply in recent years, driven in part by increased claims for theft and vandalism, as well as higher repair costs due to complex vehicle electronics.

Locking in

Road safety experts say there are several steps drivers can take to reduce their risk.

These include parking in well-lit areas, using steering wheel locks or additional immobilisers, installing tracking devices, and keeping keys and electronic fobs away from doors and windows to prevent signal theft.

Industry leaders also say manufacturers must continue improving built-in vehicle security.

Thatcham Research has called for stronger anti-theft measures, while police forces are increasingly targeting organised gangs involved in high-value vehicle theft.

For drivers, the RAC findings highlight a growing challenge in everyday motoring.

As vehicle crime becomes more sophisticated and widespread, experts warn that tackling the problem will require coordinated action from manufacturers, law enforcement, insurers and motorists themselves.

Without stronger prevention measures, campaigners fear vehicle crime will continue to rise, increasing costs, reducing confidence and leaving drivers feeling vulnerable even when their cars are parked safely at home.