August 13, 2026, 12:15 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
In several Volkswagen models, a seemingly inconspicuous component is becoming the focus of thieves: the brand logo on the vehicle’s front. Behind it, many cars house a radar module for assistance systems. Reports from London indicate that perpetrators are specifically targeting this technology. For owners, the damage can be costly.
Radar Systems Targeted
In many VW models such as the Golf, Tiguan, or Passat, a radar sensor is located behind the front emblem. This is a central component of modern assistance systems and is used for adaptive cruise control and emergency braking assistance, among other things. The logo serves as a cover through which the radar signals can pass.
For vehicle owners, the theft results in more than just cosmetic damage. If the radar module is removed or damaged, important assistance functions can fail. According to “Autocar,” residents report that perpetrators remove the emblem within seconds and steal the radar module behind it. For those affected, this can be expensive. The complex replacement, including calibration, often costs more than 2,000 euros at the workshop.
Organized Crime
Residents also report organized theft groups. In some cases, drones are even used to scout suitable vehicles. Volkswagen has already responded to the problem. In newer models, the radar sensor is now located in less accessible areas.
Also of interest: Volkswagen’s Warning to Car Owners
The stolen components are apparently offered on online platforms. However, the radar technology is electronically matched to the vehicle from the factory. This lock prevents reuse in another vehicle—similar to certain components in the iPhone. Without recoding at an authorized workshop, the parts are thus worthless, though this information seems to have not yet reached the thieves.