Land Rover owners are being urged to increase security measures and be vigilant to thieves to reduce the risk of their vehicles being stolen - particular in rural areas.
Latest figures from leading rural insurer NFU Mutual reveals that claims costs for theft of Land Rover Defender vehicles rose to £2.1 million in 2016, an increase of 17% since 2015.
The region with the highest cost of Land Rover Defender thefts last year was the North East, followed by the South East, the Midlands and the South West.
The worst affected counties were West Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Kent, Somerset and Lancashire.
This comes as the last of the Land Rover Defenders rolled off the production line in January last year.
'Be vigilant'
Clive Harris, Agricultural Vehicle Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “The Defender is no longer in production which has prompted a greater demand, making them a bigger target for thieves.
“I urge Land Rover Defender owners to be vigilant and be on their guard. Owners should ensure they have adequate security measures in place and consider fitting an after-market approved immobiliser and a tracking device if possible.
“When not in use Defenders should be parked in a garage or a secure area which is well lit if possible. Never leave keys in the ignition and keep keys out of sight at home and when out in public areas; it’s essential that easy opportunities are taken away from thieves.”
NFU Mutual’s top tips for securing your Land Rover Defender:
• Fit a mechanical immobiliser such as a Thatcham approved steering or pedal lock
• Fit an alarm for added security and consider adding a tracking device
• Thieves will target component parts so consider marking them using a forensic marking solution or system
• Keep the vehicle in a lockable building or park in well-lit areas, which are overlooked
• Have the vehicle identification number etched on windows
• Consider fitting a hidden battery isolation or a fuel cut-off switch
• Take photographs of unusual features, modifications, damage or repairs which could aid identification if stolen
• Ensure any valuables are removed from the vehicle, including satnavs
