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3,472 motor thefts were reported in the first six months of 2025, down 13% from 4,009 in the same period in 2024
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7,919 motor thefts were reported in 2024, the highest figure recorded since 2012
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Dublin makes up the majority of motor thefts so far in 2025, with 1,723 vehicles stolen, followed by 337 in Cork and 215 in Limerick
September 2025 has welcomed a significant reduction in motor theft in the first six months of 2025; however, we still advise the public to remain vigilant due to emerging crime trends. Following a 12-year high for motor theft in 2024, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) Q2 2025 statistics revealed that 3,472 motor theft and related offences were reported from January to the end of June this year – a decrease of 13%.
While the most recent figures show a fall in motor theft from last year, the figures are still significantly ahead of pre-pandemic levels, when 2,439 offences were recorded in the same period in 2019.
A variety of trends are behind the rise. Factors could include social media copycats leading to increasing rates of joyriding as car thieves take to platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram to document and share their exploits with their peers. The influx of Japanese cars – registered imports were up more than 1,000% from 2015 to 2024 – has inadvertently expanded the number of vehicles on Irish roads that are both easier to steal (due to their lack of immobiliser) and easier to drive, making them a prime target for joyriders.
In the first half of 2025, the primary hotspots for motor theft incidents across Ireland are Dublin, Cork and Limerick. Dublin makes up a sizeable proportion with 1,723 vehicles stolen, followed by 337 in Cork and 215 in Limerick.
Commenting on the latest motor theft statistics, OUTsurance Ireland Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Ian Kennedy, said: “Following the record-breaking year that was 2024, it is reassuring to see such a significant reduction in the most recent motor theft figures. Protecting your vehicle only takes a few simple steps and these figures would indicate that more and more of the Irish public has been proactive in doing so. We encourage everyone to stay consistent in following these measures to ensure the safety of their vehicle, and hopefully we will see this trend continue into the second half of 2025.”
We care about helping you protect what matters. Here are six practical tips to remind you to stay vigilant and to help keep your vehicle safe:
- Invest in an Immobiliser
Modern immobilisers prevent the engine from starting without the correct key or fob. This makes it significantly harder for thieves to hotwire your car or use cloned keys. - Consider Using Wheel Clamps
Wheel clamps, like steering locks, are a visible deterrent adding extra layers of difficulty for opportunistic criminals. - Don’t Leave Your Engine Running
It might be tempting in cold weather to let your car warm up unattended, but this leaves it vulnerable. Keyless theft is quick, and an idling car is an easy target for drive-away thieves. - Install CCTV or Motion Sensor Lighting at Home
If you park on a driveway, visible home security measures - such as cameras or motion-activated lighting - make your property less appealing to criminals and increase the chances of them being caught. In the event of a theft, the footage may also provide crucial footage which assist in the vehicle’s recovery. - Consider Signal-Blocking Pouches for Keyless Entry Cars
Relay attacks are a growing method of car theft, where thieves intercept the signal from keyless fobs. A signal-blocking pouch (also known as a Faraday pouch) can stop criminals from amplifying your key’s signal. - Even Inside the Home, Keep Keys Away from Letterboxes and Out of Sight
Ensure your car keys cannot be seen from your front door. Another emerging trend in motor thefts is car thieves passing a utensil, such as a fishing rod, through the letterbox and retrieving the keys off a hook or from a hall table.
While no insurance can prevent theft or damage, having the right cover can make all the difference when the unexpected happens. At OUTsurance, we offer trusted car insurance with a range of options - from Third-Party Fire and Theft to Comprehensive Car Insurance cover - plus optional extras to suit your needs. Get a quote today and enjoy greater peace of mind every time you hit the road.
All quoted figures are valid as of 2/10/2025
Source: CSO