Automotive

Own a Holden? Your Prized Vehicle Is A Prime Target For Thieves

New report reveals cars older than 15 years are the target of crime.

We all have a special place in our hearts for our cars. Some of us have names for our 4 wheeled friends, and most of us have some great memories attached to our chariots. They certainly aren’t something we want stolen or damaged, so when it comes to protecting your prized asset, there are some things you may want to know.

Statistics have shown that the age of your car can actually determine how much it’s at risk of getting stolen. For instance if you have a Holden Commodore VT sitting in your driveway, that model car was reportedly the most stolen type of vehicle in Adelaide during 2015/16. Apparently if you park your baby in Salisbury, it’s more likely to be stolen than anywhere else in the state.

RAA Senior Manager Mobility and Automotive Policy, Mark Borlace said thieves are targeting older, inexpensive cars.

“In 2015/16 more than 50 per cent of all cars stolen were valued at less than $5,000 and the most commonly stolen vehicles were Holden Commodores that are more than 15 years old,” said Mr Borlace.

The most stolen car in 2015/16 was the Commodore VT, which was manufactured from 1997 to 2000.

The VT Commodore accounted for the most short term thefts – those thefts where the cars are eventually recovered.

But the VY Commodore (built 2002-2004) was the most commonly stolen vehicle for profit-motivated thefts – where the cars are never recovered and are most likely stripped down and sold for parts.

Various models of the Holden Commodore held seven of the top ten places on the most stolen car list in 2015/16, with 328 Holdens stolen, followed by 62 Ford Falcons and 27 Hyundai Excels.

“Older cars were more likely to be targeted – nearly three quarters of all cars stolen were more than 10 years old,” said Mr Borlace.

“Newer cars (less than 4 years old), fared much better than older cars, accounting for just 11 per cent of all thefts in 2015/16.

“It makes sense to be careful – if your car is older, use a steering wheel lock or a decent alarm and immobiliser. 

“Always lock your car and park it in a garage if possible – or at least off the street. 

“Be especially aware when parking your car in a car park. Lock your vehicle, keep the windows up and don’t leave valuables on show inside the car – that’s just inviting a break-in.”

The City of Salisbury recorded the most car thefts in 2015/16 with 448, followed by Port Adelaide Enfield (390), Charles Sturt (367) and Playford (323).

SA Top 10 Stolen Cars 2015/2016 

  1. Holden Commodore VT
  2. Holden Commodore VX
  3. Holden Commodore VE
  4. Holden Commodore VY
  5. Holden Commodore VS
  6. Holden Commodore VZ
  7. Ford Falcon BA
  8. Ford Falcon AU
  9. Holden Commodore VR
  10. Hyundai Excel X3

See…we all knew there was a good reason to get a new car all along. Now we have the perfect excuse.

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