These Are Thieves' Favorite Cars for Stripping

A troubling trend is spreading across cities: thieves are increasingly stripping cars parked on streets and in parking lots to sell their parts. Certain car models are particularly at risk, as thieves focus on high-demand components.

The rise in car part theft has become a serious concern. No longer confined to poorly lit areas or less secure neighborhoods, these incidents are affecting vehicles in private parking lots and even busy streets throughout Europe and around the globe. Rather than stealing entire cars, thieves now focus on specific parts that are easy to dismantle and can be sold quickly. Headlights, bumpers, mirrors, and wheels are prime targets, as they are both easy to remove and highly valuable in the black market.

This trend began to surge following the COVID-19 crisis, marked by skyrocketing demand for spare parts due to supply chain disruptions. As car manufacturers struggled to meet needs, some motorists turned to alternate, less scrupulous sources for components that were not only more affordable but also available without lengthy delays. Thieves have found a lucrative market here, reselling stolen parts to unscrupulous garages or directly to individuals via encrypted messaging services, such as Telegram, which act as virtual black marketplaces. 

Certain popular car models are particularly attractive to these criminal networks. Some cars are hit hardest in the US, with the Hyundai Elantra topping the list. Parts for this model, like headlights and hoods, can fetch thieves hundreds of dollars within minutes. Other frequently targeted models include the Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500, which are widespread and guarantee quick, high-demand resale opportunities. High-end cars aren't immune either; luxury German brands like BMW and Mercedes are frequent targets as their parts are both costly and highly sought-after. In some cases, thieves even steal on commission, fulfilling specific requests from clients unconcerned with the parts' origins.

Faced with the increase in part thefts, many car owners feel helpless. Some avoid parking in the city altogether or pay for secure parking options to protect their vehicles. This wave of thefts has created a sense of insecurity among motorists, who worry each time they park that their vehicle might be stripped down before they return. Although solutions such as part marking can deter thieves, this problem seems likely to persist as long as demand for used spare parts remains high.