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Clio 4: Why is it the most stolen car in 2023 in France and how to protect it?

·5 mins
Vehicle Security News

Car theft is a recurring problem in France, affecting thousands of vehicles each year. According to the latest statistics from Argos, some cars are more coveted than others. In 2023, the Clio 4 emerged as the model most targeted by thieves, ahead of the Renault Mégane 4 and the Peugeot 3008.

But why is this car particularly vulnerable, and most importantly, how can owners effectively protect it?

Why is the Clio 4 the most stolen?
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The Clio 4, Renault’s flagship model, has conquered the market with its design, versatility, and attractive price. However, these qualities also make it a prime target for thieves. Several reasons explain this situation:

  1. Popularity and availability of spare parts: The Clio 4 is a very common model in France, which means that the demand for spare parts is high. Thieves can easily sell components like engine control units, dashboards, or wheels on the black market.
  2. Vulnerability of security systems: Although the Clio 4 has modern security systems, some models are equipped with older electronic devices, making them easier to hack using methods like mouse jacking, where thieves capture the key signals from a distance.
  3. Easy target for opportunistic thieves: With a large number of Clio 4s on the road, it is not uncommon to come across one poorly parked or in a poorly monitored area. These conditions facilitate the work of criminals, who look for opportunities to act quickly.

Clio 4: a prime target for thieves with over 2000 vehicles stolen in 2023

Clio 4: the prime target for thieves, also for its spare parts
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According to data from the Argos barometer and various insurers, more than 2,000 Clio 4s were stolen in France in 2023, representing a 15% increase compared to the previous year. This alarming figure places the Clio 4 far ahead of other models in this unfortunate ranking.

But it is not just complete cars that interest thieves. The market for spare parts is also a significant driver of this crime. Indeed, many Clio 4s are partially stripped of their most prized components. Among the most stolen parts are:

  • Engine control units, which are crucial for the proper functioning of the vehicle,
  • GPS navigation systems, sold at high prices on the black market,
  • Wheels and rims, easily resold,
  • Catalytic converters, containing rare metals like platinum.

The average repair costs for the Clio 4 are often high, as indicated by several insurers, not to mention the loss of time for the owner and the stress associated with such an incident.

How to protect your Clio 4 from theft?
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Fortunately, there are several solutions to protect your Clio 4 from theft. By combining deterrent methods and modern technologies, owners can significantly reduce risks.

1. Strengthen mechanical security
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Even though thieves are becoming increasingly sophisticated, basic mechanical solutions remain effective:

  • Steering wheel lock: A good steering wheel lock is a simple yet highly effective solution to deter thieves. It makes access to the steering wheel more difficult and significantly increases the time needed to steal the car.
  • Wheel clamp: Although it is bulkier, a wheel clamp is an extreme solution for those parking in high-risk areas. It prevents any movement of the car as long as it is in place.

2. Improve parking
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A good way to limit the risk of theft is to pay attention to where you park your vehicle:

  • Park in a garage or a secure parking lot whenever possible.
  • Avoid dark areas or isolated places at night.
  • Use monitored parking in large cities or near shopping centers.

3. Install an anti-intrusion alarm
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A high-performance alarm system can scare off a thief before they even attempt to enter the car. Some systems are connected to your smartphone, allowing you to be alerted in real-time in case of an intrusion attempt.

4. Opt for a discreet GPS tracker
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In case of theft, a GPS tracker can greatly facilitate the recovery of your vehicle. Brands like Invoxia offer innovative solutions that allow you to track your vehicle discreetly and effectively. For car owners, the GPS Tracker Pro stands out as an ideal solution!

Clio 4: the Invoxia GPS tracker, the essential accessory to protect your vehicle from theft

The advantage of such a device lies in its ability to function even after thieves have attempted to disable the car’s electronic systems. Unlike other systems that consume a lot of energy, these trackers are designed to last several weeks without recharging, ensuring continuous monitoring.

At Invoxia, the features are numerous to help you avoid theft or to recover your Clio 4 if the theft has already occurred:

  • Anti-theft alerts and detection of suspicious movement
  • Creation of security zones, with alerts in case of entry and/or exit
  • Precise GPS tracking thanks to the 4G LTE-M network
  • Live Tracking in case of emergency, to improve position frequencies
  • Police assistance through the Theft File, the file that summarizes all important vehicle information and provides access to the GPS tracker’s location
Learn More

Our car was stolen during the night. Thanks to the GPS location, the police were able to identify our vehicle in a warehouse and return it to us.

Paul T., Invoxia user

Towards a resurgence of Clio 4 thefts in 2024?
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With the growing demand for spare parts and well-maintained used cars, it is likely that the number of Clio 4 thefts will continue to rise in the coming years. The appeal of this model remains strong, and thieves seem to always find new methods to bypass security devices.

Protecting your Clio 4: A necessity for the future
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Clio 4 owners must take the initiative by adopting protection solutions today. Traditional methods like mechanical anti-theft devices or alarms remain useful, but modern technologies, such as GPS trackers, provide an additional layer of protection. Increasingly discreet and effective, these trackers allow for quick location of a stolen vehicle, minimizing losses for owners.

Clio 4: how to protect the most stolen car model in France?

The Clio 4 remains a model appreciated by both motorists and thieves, who see it as a significant source of income through spare parts. The figures clearly show that this vehicle is now one of the most coveted by criminals.

However, by taking the necessary precautions and adopting the right protection devices, Clio 4 owners can not only deter thieves but also increase their chances of recovering their vehicle in case of theft. Don’t leave it to chance, protect your car today!

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