- Lock Your Tailgate! This tip is by far the easiest to implement. Thieves cannot steal your tailgate when it is locked. ...
- Install a Tailgate Lock. Not every tailgate has a lock that was built-in by the manufacturer. If this is your case, I recommend getting a tailgate lock from a retailer.
- Radiator/Hose Clamp Hack. This hack functions similarly to the tailgate lock in that you’re putting an appliance around the tailgate hinge to prevent it from being disengaged.
- Park The Rear Against A Post, Wall, or Pillar. You can always be more cognizant of where you park. ...
- Rear Dash Cam With Blinking Light. Although a bit pricey, you can get a rear dash cam with a blinking light. ...
- Park Near High Foot Traffic. Nothing wards thieves off more than a bunch of witnesses. Park your truck near a vicinity with normally high foot traffic.
- Lockable Hard Tonneau Cover. You can also get a lockable hard tonneau cover that overlaps the tailgate. ...
- Tailgate Alarm. Certain companies sell and install alarm systems that are meant to protect your tailgate from being stolen.
- Engrave Your VIN Into The Tailgate. This will not exactly prevent your tailgate from being stolen, but it will sure help when trying to get your tailgate back.
How can I prevent tailgate theft?
5. Spend a couple bucks on some hose clamps. Simple hose clamps on the tailgate hinges deter theft because a thief will not want to spend the additional time necessary to remove the clamp before removing your tailgate. Instructions can be found at this link:
How can I prove that my tailgate is stolen?
If you happen to find your stolen tailgate at a parts shop, you can prove that it’s yours by pointing out the engraved VIN on it. Why Are Tailgates Being Stolen?
How easy is it to remove a tailgate?
Open the tailgate at a 45 degree angle. Disengage the right side of the tailgate from its hinge. Pull the tailgate towards the right to slide it off the left hinge. It’s really that easy! If you can believe it, it can take an experienced thief less than 20 seconds to remove a tailgate.
Why are tailgates stolen?
As you will read, tailgates are stolen due to their high resale value. If you happen to find your stolen tailgate at a parts shop, you can prove that it’s yours by pointing out the engraved VIN on it. Why Are Tailgates Being Stolen?
How do you secure a pickup tailgate?
4:136:32TAILGATE Security (protect your tailgate from THEFT) | AnthonyJ350YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThieves have realized that if you don't lock your tailgate. It's easy to take them off. So what IMoreThieves have realized that if you don't lock your tailgate. It's easy to take them off. So what I like to do is I like to use a security device like this so this one's made out of stainless steel.
Can a locked tailgate be stolen?
0:322:13What you need to know about tailgate thefts - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it goes on here around you around your your hinge this clamps around your hinge a key locks itMoreSo it goes on here around you around your your hinge this clamps around your hinge a key locks it all in place yeah so you see it goes like this.
How common is tailgate theft?
In fact, if you don't take active steps to secure your truck tailgate, it is shockingly easy to take. How Big is the Problem? Between the dates of January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2017, there were 3,655 claims reported involving truck tailgate thefts according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
Do people steal tailgates on trucks?
He adds that stealing tailgates is more common than you think. The California DMV registered more than five million pick-up trucks, ranking California number one in the United States with the most registered pick-ups. "Pop & Lock" tailgate lock can help make sure that nobody walks off with your tailgate.
Do tailgates have VIN numbers?
Although it appears to be a single part, tailgates are comprised of multiple pieces, and they are not typically stamped with a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Can I add a lock to my tailgate?
A tailgate lock works in tandem with your tonneau cover to provide security for your cargo. At RealTruck.com we offer standard tailgate locks and electric locks. Electric tailgate locks plug into your trucks electrical system, allowing you to lock and unlock your tailgate with your OEM keyfob.
Why do people steal truck bed doors?
0:072:14Thieves are targeting tailgates in broad daylight - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut now a lot of crooks are just targeting. Parts things they can steal and sell quick one of theMoreBut now a lot of crooks are just targeting. Parts things they can steal and sell quick one of the most popular items is a trucks tailgate. It's happening at night with surveillance cameras in sight.
Does the tailgate on a Honda Ridgeline lock?
To enhance convenience and security, the Ridgeline tailgate can lock and unlock automatically along with the doors.
Does Honda Ridgeline trunk lock?
0:061:50How to Use the Honda Ridgeline Power-Locking and - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipModel year every Honda Ridgeline comes with a power locking. And unlocking tailgate to enhanceMoreModel year every Honda Ridgeline comes with a power locking. And unlocking tailgate to enhance convenience. And security when enabled the tailgate will lock and unlock automatically.
How do I stop my Tacoma tailgate theft?
1:228:31How the Tailgate on a Tacoma Is Stolen & Make it Harder To Do SoYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipObviously to prevent people from taking your tailgate just lock it up right if you have theMoreObviously to prevent people from taking your tailgate just lock it up right if you have the electronic or the electric locking tailgate like i do then all you have to do is lock the truck.
Are tacomas easy to steal?
The Tacoma isn't particularly easy to steal. No more than any other modern pickup truck. But because their demand is so high, thieves are willing to put the effort in to snatch them. Unfortunately, there are plenty of dishonest people out there that will do anything to make a buck.
How to prevent tailgate theft?
The most obvious solution to prevent tailgate theft is to simply keep your tailgate locked. It might seem like a no-brainer, but the vast majority of people who lose their tailgates to theft didn’t lock them. After all, it’s a well known fact that thieves prefer easy targets. If your truck doesn’t have an electronic locking tailgate, get in the habit of locking it every time you use it. And if it doesn’t have a lock, aftermarket locks can be had as cheap as $50 or so.
Can you tip a stolen tailgate?
Obviously, this tip won’t necessarily prevent theft. But it can serve as a bit of a deterrent as well as provide police with a means of identifying the stolen tailgate. Otherwise, it’s pretty hard to prove that a stolen tailgate actually came off your truck. Plus, it might just be enough to make the thief look elsewhere for their next victim.
What is the end goal of tailgate locks?
Ultimately, whether you choose to purchase a Tailgate Lock, or choose to go with a hose clamp or even some other option, the end goal is that you DO SOMETHING. Secure your property and avoid being a victim.
Can you use a hose clamp on a tailgate?
Effectively, yes, using a hose clamp is a CHEAP (roughly one dollar) and effective solution to preventing tailgate theft, but it does have its drawbacks.
Can you remove a tailgate lock on a truck?
Short answer – most likely, no. However, it will just depend on your vehicle. Most truck tailgates are only slotted for removal on one side, so one tailgate lock or hose clamp will do the trick.
How much does it cost to install a tailgate lock?
Keyed or remote tailgate locks are also available ranging from $60 to $90 on up. 5. Spend a couple bucks on some hose clamps.
How to get a truck stolen?
1. Park in your locked garage. This is the safest way. If thieves can’t see or easily access your truck, they won’t bother. 2. Lock your truck if you have a tailgate lock. The tailgate has to be swung open in order to remove it. A locked tailgate won’t allow that. Visit Torque News homepage for more stories.
Why do you put hose clamps on your tailgate?
Simple hose clamps on the tailgate hinges deter theft because a thief will not want to spend the additional time necessary to remove the clamp before removing your tailgate. Instructions can be found at this link: YouTube. The Good of the Land.
What is the most targeted vehicle for tailgate theft?
The most popular targets seem to be Ford F-250 and F-350 tailgates, along with the Chevy Silverado 1500. Since 2010, tailgate theft has increased almost five times, which many industry experts attribute to the new features now included.
Why is theft veering towards commercial trucks?
There are signs that this kind of theft is veering more towards commercial trucks because of the safety backup cameras and other installed equipment. However, it only takes a thief 20 seconds to ruin your day for a quick buck.
Can you remove a tailgate on a pickup truck?
Pickup truck tailgates are expensive, and unlocked, they are very easy to remove. Though some trucks come equipped with tailgates that lock electronically along with the door locks, many still do not. The most popular targets seem to be Ford F-250 and F-350 tailgates, along with the Chevy Silverado 1500. Since 2010, tailgate theft has increased ...
How to prevent tailgate theft?
Police are suggesting ways to help prevent tailgate theft. First, you can park your truck close to other vehicles at the rear. Or up against a fence or building if possible. This makes it difficult for thieves to gain access to the rear. Thieves usually go for the easy steal.
What happens if my cat is stolen?
If your cat has been stolen you’ll know it immediately. When you start it the vehicle will sound like it doesn’t have a muffler at all . It will not hurt your vehicle to drive it a few miles to your dealer or muffler shop.
Why are dealer lots being targeted?
Dealership lots were especially being targeted because thieves had all night to steal as many as they could. Some lots don’t retain 24-hour guards. How to prevent catalytic converter thefts.
Will tailgates be replaced in 2020?
In years past it was not a huge expense to have to replace a stolen tailgate. But today with backup cameras, built-in steps, and unique features it can run a few thousand dollars to replace. No matter where you live, it can happen.
Can you use a motion detector on a cat?
A motion detector alarm for your car works as well. Believe it or not, there are also devices you can clamp or attach to your cat that inform you if someone is poking around your cat. Some muffler shops will weld extra protection around your cat to ward off theft. This can be a fairly cheap deterrent.
What is tailgate damage?
Tailgates are commonly damaged parts on trucks, from either collision damage, overloading them, and abuse. A lot of truck owners would just as soon buy a used tailgate in good condition as new. They're valuable parts on the used parts market, and they're very easy to steal.
How long does it take for a tailgate to be removed?
Experienced parts thieves can remove a tailgate from a truck parked in a driveway or lot and be gone without notice in less than 60 seconds.
Can you lock your tailgate?
Yeah, it can be annoying to have to unlock the tailgate, and yeah, locks are easy enough to defeat, but your thief isn't looking for a hassle, if the tailgate is locked most likely they'll move on to another truck.
