Car part theft is on the rise in South Africa, with certain components becoming prime targets for criminals. These stolen parts are often sold on the black market, causing significant financial strain for vehicle owners. This article identifies the ten most stolen car parts in South Africa and provides tips on how to protect your vehicle from theft.

Catalytic Converters: Highly Valuable Metals

Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum and rhodium, making them a lucrative target for thieves. These components can be quickly removed from vehicles, especially those with higher ground clearance, and sold for a substantial profit.

To protect your catalytic converter, consider using a protective shield and parking in secure, well-lit areas.

Alloy Wheels: Quick to Steal, High in Demand

Alloy wheels are among the most frequently stolen car parts due to their high resale value. Thieves can strip a car of its wheels in minutes, making this a common occurrence in South Africa.

Using locking wheel nuts and parking in monitored areas can help deter wheel theft.

Car Batteries: An Easy Target

Car batteries are frequently targeted by thieves because they are easy to remove and always in demand. Batteries are not only used in vehicles but also in alternative energy setups, increasing their appeal on the black market.

A battery lock and secure parking can help protect your battery from being stolen.

Headlights and Taillights: Valuable and Easy to Resell

Modern headlights and taillights, particularly those with LED or Xenon technology, are often stolen for their high value. These parts can be removed quickly, making them an attractive target for criminals.

Installing tamper-proof screws and parking in well-lit areas can help protect your vehicle’s lights.

Side Mirrors: Frequently Targeted for High-Tech Features

Side mirrors, especially those equipped with indicators or cameras, are another popular target for thieves. These parts are relatively easy to remove and sell, often being resold as replacement parts for damaged vehicles.

Anti-theft mirror covers and secure parking can help safeguard your side mirrors.

Tailgates: A High-Value Target

Tailgates from bakkies and SUVs are frequently stolen due to the valuable components they often contain, such as sensors and cameras. These parts can be sold separately or as complete units, making them a high-value target for thieves.

Installing a tailgate lock and parking with the tailgate facing a wall or another vehicle can help prevent theft.

Infotainment Systems: High-Tech Targets

Radios and infotainment systems are frequently stolen due to their high resale value. Thieves can easily break into a vehicle and remove these systems, which are then sold on the black market.

Using a detachable faceplate and upgrading your vehicle’s security system can help protect these components.

Emblems and Badges: Small, Valuable, and Easy to Steal

Emblems and badges from luxury vehicles are often stolen because they are easy to remove and have a high resale value. These small components are frequently targeted for their appeal as collector’s items or as replacements for damaged parts.

Anti-theft adhesives or screws can help secure these parts and deter theft.

Spare Tires: A Commonly Overlooked Target

Spare tires, especially those mounted externally, are frequently stolen in South Africa. These tires are easy to remove and sell, making them a prime target for thieves.

A spare tire lock or chain can help secure your spare tire and prevent it from being stolen.

Airbags: High-Value Safety Equipment

Airbags are increasingly targeted by thieves due to their high value and steady demand in the black market. Removing an airbag is quick, and the replacement cost is substantial for vehicle owners.

Installing an alarm system with interior motion sensors can help protect your vehicle’s airbags from theft.

Conclusion: Minimize the Risk of Car Part Theft

Car part theft is a growing concern in South Africa, with thieves targeting high-value components that can be easily resold. By identifying the most commonly stolen parts and implementing preventive measures, vehicle owners can reduce the risk of theft and avoid the high costs of repairs and replacements.