Drivers of these three popular models warned thieves are targeting their cars

Three popular cars owned by millions of drivers across the UK are targets for thieves, motoring experts have warned. The models were named as part of a warning for drivers to be on their guard during the winter months, when more vehicles tend to get stolen. The cars named were the Ford Fiesta, the Volkswagen Golf and the BMW 3 Series.

They are among the most stolen cars in the country, according to latest data. The Ford Fiesta is the number one target. There are a number of reasons for this.



Firstly, it's an incredibly popular car, with around 1.5 million of them on UK roads. READ MORE: Drivers could be hit with £1,000 fine for parking outside their home from today Get breaking news on BirminghamLive WhatsApp , click the link to join Another reason they are targeted is that new models are no longer being made, increasing demand for parts.

Car thefts tend to surge over the winter. A common mistake made by drivers is to leave their engines running while their car is unattended to clear windscreens and warm them up. But opportunistic thieves are on the lookout for motorists who do this and it results in vehicles being nicked every year.

The darker nights also make it easier for crooks to lurk around undetected. Rhydian Jones, Confused.com car insurance expert, said: "Winter brings shorter days and it's darker earlier, making it a crucial time for drivers to be extra cautious about car theft.

"That’s as this time of year can often see an increase in opportunist thieves. Our recent data shows that popular models like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf and BMW 3 Series are among the most stolen vehicles in the UK. And, with more cars stolen from streets outside drivers homes (28%) than any other location, it’s important to take a few simple steps to ensure your car is safe.

“To keep your car safe, you should: Double check your car is locked: whilst this might sound obvious, it’s especially important with modern keyless locking systems, which thieves can hack into. Use visible deterrents: using steering wheel or handbrake locks not only add protection but can also discourage thieves from attempting to break in. Use a Faraday pouch: keep your keys in a Faraday pouch to block signals for keyless entry systems.

Don’t leave valuables in sight: avoid leaving valuables visible in your car, as they can make it more of a target. Install a tracker: this can greatly improve the chances of recovering your car if it’s stolen..