Surge in late model London taxi vehicle thefts raises concerns over sparse spare parts market
London’s taxi industry is facing an unusual challenge with a notable rise in thefts of late-model TX4s and Mercedes 114 Vitos.
Traditionally, black cab drivers have been relatively immune to vehicle theft, with break-ins and minor thefts being more common. However, reports of entire cabs disappearing have become increasingly frequent.
A taxi fleet expert, writing in TAXI newspaper, revealed that the stolen vehicles are believed to be dismantled for spare parts. “It's no secret that spares for the rear wheel steering on Vitos are harder to find than a needle in a haystack,” they noted.
The apparent motivation for these thefts highlights broader concerns about supply chain shortages and spiralling costs for essential taxi components. With vehicles vanishing “never to be seen again”, there is growing apprehension that groups are exploiting gaps in the spare parts market.
This emerging trend raises serious questions about how the industry can protect itself. In a sector already burdened with regulatory and operational pressures, the added risk of losing vehicles entirely could create further challenges for London’s iconic taxi trade.
The taxi fleets expert and columnist said in TAXI Newspaper: “One of the very few motoring problems that London cabbies have traditionally not been impacted by is vehicle theft. I know that vehicle break ins and thefts from vehicles, are a problem, but to actually wake up and find your cab gone, is quite rare.
“Unfortunately, in recent weeks I have been made aware of an increase in late model TX4s and 114 Vitos going missing never to be seen again. The theory is that they are being stolen for spares. It's no secret that spares for the rear wheel steering on Vitos are harder to find than a needle in a haystack. The extortionate cost of engine and other parts for the EU VI TX4 is also only increasing and the situation is getting worse.”
