Attention for VOLKSWAGEN vehicle Owners - Theft from motor vehicles

Attention for VOLKSWAGEN vehicle Owners - Theft from motor vehicles

You raised theft from vehicles as a concern, so here’s a quick local update.

Good Afternoon All,

We have recently seen a number of thefts across the surrounding wards involving sensors contained within the Volkswagen (VW) logo on vehicles. This is similar to the catalytic converter thefts that were prevalent in previous years.

Volkswagen UK is aware of these offences and has been contacted regarding support for victims. They have advised that affected vehicle owners can speak with:

Rachel Green
Senior Service Advisor
Volkswagen Battersea
92 York Road, London, SW11

The Battersea dealership is currently offering customers £70 off the cost of replacement sensors. Whilst this may not significantly offset the full replacement cost, it does provide some financial assistance for those affected.

Volkswagen has also advised customers not to purchase second-hand replacement sensors from online marketplaces such as eBay, as these components must be correctly aligned and programmed to the vehicle's VIN. This process can only be carried out by Volkswagen.

From a policing perspective, dedicated resources have been allocated to tackle vehicle crime. Officers specifically assigned to vehicle-related thefts and break-ins will be overseeing investigations and patrol activity within Furzedown and surrounding wards. This team operates separately from local Safer Neighbourhood Officers.

Please remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police at the earliest opportunity.

Kind regards,

PC Aldridge 3435SW

Having personal items stolen from your vehicle is an upsetting experience, and we are determined to find and arrest those who break the law. 

Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked. 

Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door. 

If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when it’s not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months. 

Remove all items from view by taking them with you or putting them in the boot out of sight. Thieves will look for any items on display. Things like clothes, documents or an old bag might not seem like valuables, but they could still tempt a thief. Ensure you remove all other clues there might be valuables linked to the car, such as phone chargers or sat-nav mounts. 

Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you do not have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space. 

Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme. 

Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others.