UK Vehicle Crime Statistics
Live UK vehicle crime counter 2026. Approximately 400,000 vehicle crime offences including theft of and from vehicles are recorded in England and Wales each year.
About These Statistics
Approximately 400,000 vehicle crime offences are recorded in England and Wales each year, according to Home Office Crime Statistics. This includes theft of motor vehicles, theft from motor vehicles, and vehicle interference. This equates to approximately 1,096 vehicle crimes per day.
Vehicle crime encompasses two main categories: theft of a vehicle (approximately 130,000 per year) and theft from a vehicle (approximately 270,000 per year). Theft of vehicles includes both outright theft and taking a vehicle without consent. Theft from vehicles includes stealing items left inside cars including sat-navs, bags and other valuables.
Keyless entry theft — sometimes called relay theft — has become an increasingly common method of vehicle theft, particularly targeting newer, higher-value cars. Criminals use relay devices to amplify the signal from a key fob inside a house and relay it to an accomplice near the car, tricking the vehicle into unlocking. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders estimates keyless theft now accounts for a significant proportion of all vehicle theft.
Vehicle crime has declined dramatically over the long term, falling by approximately 80% since its peak in the early 1990s when over 1.8 million vehicle crimes were recorded annually. This decline is attributed to improved vehicle security including immobilisers, which became mandatory on new cars in 1998, and central locking systems.
Insurance costs are significantly affected by vehicle crime. Areas with high vehicle theft rates see substantially higher insurance premiums. Certain vehicle models — particularly high-value SUVs and newer vehicles with keyless entry — are disproportionately targeted by organised theft gangs who often export stolen vehicles abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on official UK government data
How many vehicles are stolen in the UK each year?
Approximately 130,000 vehicles are stolen in England and Wales each year according to Home Office Crime Statistics, with a further 270,000 thefts from vehicles — giving a total of approximately 400,000 vehicle crime offences annually. Vehicle crime has fallen dramatically since the 1990s peak of over 1.8 million offences, largely due to improved vehicle security.
What is keyless car theft and how can I prevent it?
Keyless car theft (relay theft) involves criminals using electronic devices to amplify the signal from a key fob inside your home, tricking the car into thinking the key is present. Prevention measures include storing keys in a signal-blocking pouch or tin, fitting a steering wheel lock, parking in a locked garage, and considering a GPS tracker. Some manufacturers have introduced motion-sensing key fobs that go to sleep when stationary.
What should I do if my car is stolen in the UK?
If your car is stolen in the UK, you should immediately report it to the police by calling 101 (or 999 if you witnessed the theft). You will receive a crime reference number which you need to claim on your insurance. You should also notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Report the theft to the DVLA if the vehicle documents were in the car.