MOTOR thefts rose by a quarter last year, shock data has revealed.
Some 130,389 incidents of stolen vehicles were recorded in 2022, AA Insurance analysis found.
The shocking 25 per cent rise is up from a total of 104,435 during the previous 12 months.
Incidents of thefts from cars also saw a ten per cent leap — with 212,900 in 2022, up from 193,647.
The AA warned thieves are using “hi-tech” methods, including key-cloning, to commit the crimes.
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Motorists are being advised to consider using steering wheel locks and not to store valuables in vehicles.
AA Insurance Services managing director Gus Park said: "These figures are in danger of getting out of control.
"If left to spiral further there will be big cost implications in terms of the impact to wider society, let alone the price policy holders pay.
"We urge police chiefs and crime commissioners across the country to create an action plan to crack the case.
"Unfortunately, there is no one thing that can guarantee keeping your car safe from theft, but just making it a bit harder for the thieves can make it less likely that they'll go for your car."
