Midland Land Rover owners have been warned about thefts of iconic Defenders as it emerged the region is a hotspot for car thieves targeting the 4x4s.
The end of production of the off-road vehicle, which was made in Solihull, has led to rising offences with thieves stealing parts and whole vehicles to order.
Insurer NFU Mutual urged owners to take extra security precautions following a spike in claims.
The final edition of the famous 4x4 rolled off the production line in Solihull in January after 68 years.
NFU Mutual revealed the Midlands was the second worst hit area for Defender thefts with more than £235,000 claimed by owners in 2015.
The end of production has seen criminals responding to greater demand for vehicles and parts.
Clive Harris, agricultural vehicle specialist at NFU Mutual, said: "The Defender is no longer in production which has prompted a greater demand, making them a bigger target for thieves.
"I urge Land Rover Defender owners to be vigilant and be on their guard. Owners should ensure they have adequate security measures in place and consider fitting an after-market approved immobiliser and a tracking device if possible."
Jaguar Land Rover ended production of the Defender - first made in 1948 - claiming the car's old-fashioned design also meant it could not conform to increasingly rigorous modern safety standards.
