Car theft hits new high in 2016

Last year was not a good one for more than 54,000 motor vehicle and motorcycle owners across Australia.

With 148 vehicles stolen every day, totalling a staggering $500 million in the 12 months ending on September 30, 2016 – the figures exceeded those from previous years and owners are being advised to take extra care to protect their vehicles.

Of the 43,249 passenger and light commercial vehicles, 8299 motorcycles and 2546 heavy and other vehicles, most were stolen in Victoria, which accounted for a huge 35 per cent of thefts.

NSW was second at 21.4 per cent, Queensland third at 17.3 per cent and WA fourth at 15.7 per cent.

Researched by carsafe.com.au and analysed by comparethemarket.com.au, the figures revealed the top 10 hot spots around the country, with the most at-risk areas in Victoria including Hume, Greater Geelong, Casey, Greater Dandenong and Whittlesea.

The red zones in Queensland included Brisbane City, Gold Coast, Logan and Townsville, while Greater ACT also scored in the Top 10.

The most popular targets for car thieves were Nissan's N15 (1995-2000) Pulsar with 932 stolen, Holden's VE (2006-2013) Commodore with 860 thefts, Toyota's 2005-2011 HiLux with 759 nicked, Holden's VT (1997-2000) Commodore with 687 nabbed and Holden's VX (2000-2002) Commodore, 596 of which were reported stolen.

Comparethemarket.com.au’s Abigail Koch said: “It’s important for Australians to know where theft hotspots are so they can be extra vigilant, especially in the theft ‘red zones’ within each state.

"But it’s not just about being extra aware, it is also important for drivers to take the necessary preventative measures to reduce the chances of suffering a vehicle loss.

“This can include ensuring your vehicle is locked and parked in a safe area, or making sure you have placed your keys in a safe place. Not taking these extra precautions can void your insurance policy, which could end up costing you the value of your car.”

To that end, comparethemarket.com.au prepared the following list of suggested precautions a vehicle owner should take as protection against theft:

>> Check it’s locked, and check again
It seems obvious but triple check your car is locked and the alarm is on. Ensure you hear the central locking activate, and look out for the visual signs too. Nearly all motor insurance policies exclude cover for theft if the vehicle was left unlocked. It is also worth checking that your windows aren’t open, including the sunroof, as this could also void your policy.

>> Don’t leave your keys in the ignition
You might be gone for a short time, but opportunist thieves only need a couple of minutes to jump into your vehicle and drive away. If your car has been stolen while it’s left running, your insurance may be invalidated. Not only will you go through the hassle and stress of losing your car, but you won’t get any payout.

>> Know where you keep your keys
The easiest way for a thief to steal your car is with the keys. Think about where you keep them at home, is it near an open window or in your letterbox? When you’re out and about, ensure keys are not within easy reaching distance. Most policies state that drivers must take all reasonable steps to protect the vehicle from loss or damage, and will often reject a claim if they believe that the driver had been ‘reckless.’

>> Being extra aware when selling your car
If you decide to part ways with your beloved vehicle, you must take extra precautions to sell it appropriately. If you display or advertise that your car is for sale and don’t take reasonable precautions to prevent its theft or damage, then your insurance won’t cover you. Advertise carefully and keep your vehicle protected until it is sold.

>> Understand the cover that protects you against car theft
There are several types of car insurance you can choose from to protect your vehicle but it’s important to know which ones cover you for theft and which ones don’t. For example, compulsory third party and third party property do not cover you if your car is stolen.

However, choosing extensive car insurance such as third party fire and theft and comprehensive car insurance could cover you if your vehicle is stolen. These types of insurances may also include the use of a hire car if your car is stolen and even the replacement of possessions left within the stolen vehicle.

If you’re ever unsure about the extent of your car theft cover, call your insurance provider or read your product disclosure statement.