Thieves target radar sensors as auto theft shifts beyond catalytic converters

On the Dash:

• Dealerships should anticipate increased sensor replacements and plan for parts and labor to meet rising demand.

• Proactively informing customers about theft risks, vulnerable models, and prevention strategies positions dealerships as trusted advisors.

• Advising customers on parking strategies, security upgrades, or design-related risks can enhance the ownership experience and set the dealership apart.

A new theft trend is emerging across the auto industry as criminals shift their focus from catalytic converters to radar sensors mounted at the front of vehicles, creating costly repair challenges for drivers and dealerships.

According to recent news reports, thieves are increasingly targeting radar sensors that support advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The components can often be removed in just a few minutes and resold online through platforms such as eBay and Facebook Marketplace for $100 to $150. For vehicle owners, however, replacing a stolen radar sensor can cost thousands of dollars, including parts, labor, and recalibration.

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Radar sensors are crucial for vehicle safety, monitoring distance and speed between vehicles to support features like collision warnings and emergency braking. If a sensor is stolen, these safety systems are disabled until the sensor is replaced and recalibrated, which typically requires specialized dealership equipment.

The rise in sensor thefts is partly due to vehicle design, as some automakers hide radar sensors behind easily accessible front grille badges. Thieves can remove these badges and extract the sensors in under three minutes using minimal tools.

This method is faster and quieter than catalytic converter theft, which requires more effort and noisy power tools. While any vehicle equipped with front-facing radar technology can be targeted, models with logo-mounted sensors appear to be especially vulnerable. Reports from Washington indicate that the Honda CR-V is among the most frequently targeted vehicles. Similar Toyota and Acura models with comparable sensor placements have also been affected.

For dealerships, the trend presents new challenges. For example, service departments may see an increase in ADAS-related repairs, insurance claims, and customer frustration tied to repair costs and parts availability. Because stolen sensors require recalibration, repairs often take longer than traditional body or theft-related work.