Car theft is a reality that many drivers face, but knowing the latest breakdown of theft statistics from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) can help you stay informed and better protected. In this article, we’ll break down the most recent motor theft numbers and share tips on how to safeguard your vehicle against theft in Ireland.
- 7,919 motor vehicle thefts were reported in 2024, a 4% increase since the previous year and the highest figure recorded since 2012[1].
- 3,913 motor thefts were reported between July-December 2024 compared to 3,715 during the same period in 2023. [2]
- Dublin makes up the majority of motor vehicle thefts in 2024, with 4,305 vehicles stolen, followed by 851 in Cork and 502 in Limerick. [3]
As an Irish-based car insurance company, we'd like to offer guidance to the public about the increasing risks of motor theft across the country. It comes as the Central Statistics Office (CSO) 2024 statistics revealed that 7,919 motor theft and related offences were reported last year.
A total of 7,623 motor thefts were reported in 2023, with 5,000 of those vehicles being cars. 2024 figures have surpassed 2023 by 4%, demonstrating an upward trend in car thefts and related incidents and highlighting 2024 as the worst year for motor theft in Ireland in more than a decade.
In 2024, the primary hotspots for motor theft incidents across Ireland were Dublin, Cork and Limerick. Dublin making up a sizeable proportion with 4,305 vehicles stolen, followed by 851 in Cork and 502 in Limerick.
Commenting on the latest motor theft statistics, OUTsurance Ireland CMO Ian Kennedy said: “The growing trend of motor thefts continued last year, with 2024 surpassing 2023 figures - increasing by 4%. The Irish public needs to be increasingly vigilant in protecting their vehicles and ensure not to make simple mistakes like leaving keys near their front door or valuables on display in their vehicle.”
Here are some top tips to reduce the risk of falling victim to motor theft:
1. Double check your vehicle is secure
Ensure doors, windows, and the boot are locked before leaving your car, even if it's just for a few minutes.
2. Install a steering wheel lock
Thieves are looking to make a quick getaway so a visible anti-theft device, like a steering wheel lock, makes your vehicle a less attractive target.
3. Keep valuables out of sight
Items like laptops, wallets, or bags will attract thieves. Store them in the boot or glove compartment.
4. Use a GPS tracking device
Using a GPS tracker like an AirTag will improve your chances of recovering your vehicle if it is stolen. Some systems can also alert you to any unauthorised movement, helping to track and retrieve your vehicle more efficiently. Security devices like this can help you in the unfortunate event that your car is stollen.
5. Be cautious with spare keys
Be mindful of where you leave your keys at home, as criminals will know through experience where people may decide to hide their spare key.
6. Park in busy, well-lit areas
If you can, choose parking spots in well-lit areas with plenty of activity. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in places where they can easily be seen or caught on camera.
7. Fit theft-resistant number plate fittings
Theft-resistant number plate fittings feature high-security screws and bolts, usually made from high quality steel which is designed to resist any tampering. Vehicle manufacturers and most local car garages provide these fittings.
8. Install security cameras
Just the sight of security cameras where you park your car can stop a thief in their tracks.
9. Use an immobiliser
An immobiliser prevents the engine from starting without the correct key or electronic device, making it significantly harder for thieves to steal your vehicle by hot-wiring it. While the majority of cars manufactured for the EU have immobilisers installed, apart from pre 1998 models, imported vehicles from outside the EU may not have the technology fitted as standard.
10. Car alarm
Ensure your car's alarm system is in good working condition and sounding an alarm in case an individual is trying to break in. This seems simple, but a loud alarm will scare a thief off if they think someone will see them.
11. Turn your wheels
Turning the wheels of your car towards the curb sounds simple, but this can put a massive roadblock between your car and thieves who might try to tow your car away.
12. Leaving your car running
It’s good practice to avoid leaving your car running on it’s own, whether it’s during the colder months to heat it up or when you need to leave your car to pop in somewhere quickly. Thieves keep a lookout for opportunistic moments like this.
There’s no better feeling than knowing your car is secure, whether you’re out and about or parked at home, so we hope our tips help you to avoid becoming a motor theft victim in 2025. Get one step ahead of car thieves with OUTsurance’s Comprehensive Car Insurance and our Third-Party Fire And Theft, ensuring your peace of mind.
[1-3] https://data.cso.ie/