When people think of car theft, they often imagine the entire vehicle disappearing from a parking lot. But in reality, car thieves are increasingly targeting specific parts instead of the whole car because the payoff is faster, the risk is lower, and the black-market demand is surprisingly high. Knowing what parts thieves are after can help you protect your vehicle from becoming a donor car for someone else’s profit. So, let’s explore the most commonly stolen car parts and learn how to protect yours from thieves!
Catalytic Converters
This one’s no surprise. Catalytic converter thefts have surged over the last few years, and for good reason. These emissions-control devices are lined with precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which fetch high prices on the black market. Thieves can see one off in minutes and sell it to a scrap yard for hundreds, sometimes even over a thousand dollars. Additionally, SUVs and trucks are targeted more frequently because they sit higher off the ground, making converters easier to access.
Wing Mirrors
Wing mirrors are among the most commonly stolen car parts because they are relatively easy and quick to remove, often requiring just basic tools or sometimes no tools at all. This makes them a convenient target for thieves looking for a fast theft with minimal risk. Wing mirrors also have a high resale value, particularly for newer or luxury vehicles, since they’re often damaged or broken.
Car Batteries
Another highly targeted part is the car battery. Although car batteries are not as valuable as catalytic converters, they are easy to access and remove and are always in demand due to their universal application across most vehicles. Thieves often target older cars that lack modern anti-theft systems or vehicles parked in unlit or unsecured areas. Once stolen, batteries are resold through online marketplaces or recycled for lead content and acid. With a few basic tools, a thief can remove a battery in under a minute and walk away with a quick profit.
Headlights and Taillights
Modern headlights and taillights, especially on luxury vehicles, are expensive. Advanced systems like HID (High-Intensity Discharge) or LED lights can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars to replace. Because these parts usually aren’t engraved with serial numbers, they’re difficult to trace and easy to resell. Thieves often target brands like BMW, Lexus, Porsche, and Audi, knowing the parts are in high demand. With just a screwdriver and some basic know-how, an experienced thief can remove these lights quickly and quietly.
Airbags
Airbags are another high-value target. Legally replacing an airbag system can cost $1,000 to $3,000, so shady repair shops are often willing to buy stolen ones at a discount. To get to the airbags, thieves have to break into the car’s cabin and access the dashboard or steering wheel. It takes some skill, but experienced criminals can do it quickly, often without leaving obvious signs of forced entry.
Infotainment Systems
Today’s infotainment systems are far more than radios—they include touchscreen displays, GPS, smartphone connectivity, and premium sound systems. These high-tech setups are expensive to replace and easy for thieves to remove with the right tools. Once stolen, these systems can be resold online or installed in other vehicles without much difficulty.
Wheels
Wheels, especially custom or high-end alloy versions, are some of the most commonly stolen parts. They’re valuable, easy to sell, and highly visible. With a jack and a lug wrench, a thief can quickly remove all four wheels from your car and place them on blocks. Luxury cars, performance vehicles, and trucks with specialty rims are frequent targets. These parts are often sold to used auto dealers or online buyers.
Tailgates
If you drive a pickup truck, your tailgate might be at risk. Many modern tailgates now include built-in cameras, electric locks, and lift-assist features, making them both useful and expensive to replace. Despite their complexity, tailgates are surprisingly easy to remove—just open it, disconnect a few cables, and lift it off. Models like the Ford F-Series, Ram 1500, and Chevy Silverado are popular targets for their interchangeable parts and resale value.
Third Row Seats
Removable third-row seats, particularly in SUVs and minivans, are frequently stolen due to their high replacement cost and lack of serial tracking. Thieves can open a vehicle’s rear hatch, remove the seats in seconds, and disappear without drawing much attention. These seats are commonly resold through online marketplaces or at salvage yards. Some owners use aftermarket seats and store them inside their homes or garages when not in use. Awareness and prevention are key, especially when parking in long-term public lots.
Emblems and Badges
Even small details like vehicle emblems and badges are targets. Thieves steal logos from brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche to sell as collector items or use in counterfeit merchandise and fashion accessories. While not high in value individually, these parts are often stolen for their brand recognition or appearance, and they can still fetch a decent price online.
Garage Door Openers
Although garage door openers aren’t a car part, they are often stolen from vehicles because of the access they provide. When a thief steals a garage opener and also finds a document inside the car that reveals the owner’s address, such as a registration slip, they potentially gain entry to the owner’s home. This type of theft turns a simple car break-in into a serious home security threat.
How to Protect Your Car Parts From Thieves?
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Park in well-lit, secure areas or garages to deter thieves
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Use locking bolts or screws for removable parts like wing mirrors and wheels
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Install a car alarm system to alert you and scare off intruders
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Set up security cameras around your parking area for added security
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Use steering wheel locks or immobilizers to prevent vehicle theft
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Regularly inspect your car for signs of tampering or damage
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Avoid leaving valuables or detachable parts visible inside your vehicle
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Consider other anti-theft aftermarket parts or tracking devices for extra protection
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When turned on, Pedal Commander’s Anti-Theft feature locks out the gas pedal so no one can use the vehicle without permission. You can control and monitor the anti-theft mode via the Pedal Commander app. Enjoy this feature for the first 14 days FOR FREE, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year—cheaper than a gas station snack!
Whether you’re parking in unfamiliar areas or leaving your vehicle unattended for extended periods, Pedal Commander gives you confidence that your ride stays exactly where you left it—fast, fierce, and protected. If you want to upgrade your car with it, click here!
