TFMV & TOMV – Protecting Your Vehicle and High‑Value Parts

Hello everyone,

Your local policing team is sharing this update to help prevent theft from motor vehicles (TFMV) and theft of motor vehicles (TOMV). We’ve seen offenders increasingly target high‑value cars and high‑value components, especially those that can be removed quickly and sold on, such as headlights, bumpers, catalytic converters, and electronic modules.

This message explains how to spot risks early and what you can do to protect your vehicle.

🚗 Current Trends We’re Seeing

Across the UK, policing partners report that vehicle thieves are becoming more organised and using more advanced technology, especially against high‑end vehicles with keyless entry systems. Criminals frequently use signal‑cloning or relay devices to unlock and steal vehicles, and the government has recently moved to restrict these devices due to their widespread use in vehicle crime. [gov.uk]

We’re also seeing an increase in theft of vehicle parts, especially:

🔍 How to Reduce the Risk of Theft From Your Vehicle (TFMV)

✅ Remove or hide valuables

Thieves target visible items such as phones, cash, tools or bags. Keep your vehicle locked and ensure windows and sunroofs are closed. 

✅ Secure high‑value components

Because headlights, bumpers and catalytic converters are frequently stolen, consider:

Even a cable, charger, sat nav stand or empty bag can attract attention.

🚘 How to Reduce the Risk of Theft of Your Vehicle (TOMV)

✅ Protect against keyless theft

Vehicles with keyless entry can be targeted in seconds. Police.uk recommends:

✅ Always lock your vehicle

Even on your drive or while filling up. Check wing mirrors fold in—thieves look for mirrors left out as a sign the vehicle is unlocked. [police.uk]

✅ Park smart

Choose well‑lit, busy, or CCTV‑covered areas. Criminals prefer isolated or shadowed locations.

✅ Consider tracking or additional security

Tracking systems, immobilisers and visible security devices (steering wheel locks, wheel clamps) slow down organised criminals.

🏎️ Advice for Owners of High‑Value Vehicles

High‑value models are heavily targeted. To reduce risk:

The National Vehicle Crime Reduction Partnership (NVCRP) has highlighted the increasing involvement of organised crime groups and the importance of prevention, improved security standards and early reporting. [nvcrp.org]

🛠️ If Your Vehicle or Vehicle Parts Are Stolen

🚨 1. Call us

📹 2. Preserve evidence

📝 3. Tell your insurer ASAP

Prompt reporting helps prevent further fraud or re‑use of your vehicle details.

🤝 4. Share information with your Safer Neighbourhood Team

Patterns help us identify hotspots and disrupt organised groups quickly.

💬 We’re Here to Help

Vehicle crime is upsetting and disruptive—we understand the impact it has. If you’ve been affected, your local officers can provide advice, reassurance and follow‑up support.

Thank you for helping us keep our area safe.
Your Local Policing team - Hounslow