It has plagued Greater Manchester for decades. But it appears police may finally be making progress in putting the brakes on a crime which can bring not only inconvenience, but fear, misery, and trauma.
In the last 12 months to March 2023 GMP recorded 7,183 vehicle thefts - a 2.9 per cent increase on the previous year.
But there is evidence that the force is improving in identifying and catching the often highly organised gangs of car thieves who, at the top end, can make a lucrative living for stealing cars for export or to strip down to parts.
