Vehicle thefts have risen by almost 50% in a decade, yet just 3% of offences resulted in a charge or summons last year, BBC analysis has found.
Organised crime groups are using increasingly sophisticated technology to steal cars to order, while police and manufacturers look to keep pace.
Criminals, the BBC has been told, are able to work out how to steal a car within weeks of a model being launched.
Investigations reporter NJ Convery has been out with police as they hunt for thieves.
Watch Stolen: Chasing Britain's Car Thieves on iPlayer now