As avid admirers of Australian automobiles, it is with reluctance that we address the troubling surge in vehicle thefts, particularly in Victoria, where one specific group of cars has become a prime target, facilitated by a surprisingly simple tool obtainable from eBay.

This week, Victoria Police reported a staggering rise in vehicle crime across the state, with over 25,000 cars reported stolen in the year leading up to September 2024—a record high.

The Vehicle Crime Squad of Victoria has indicated that the recovery rate for stolen vehicles stands at 73%, but a disconcerting 40% of the perpetrators are classified as children or teenagers.

In light of these statistics, many car owners may be tempted by the hundreds of promotional deals now available through CarExpert. Engaging with the experts in the automotive field can help secure attractive offers, but it’s essential to prioritize vehicle security first.

Disturbingly, there has been a notable increase in the theft of late-model Holden and HSV vehicles—often sought after for their V8 engines—over the recent six-month period.

The criminals responsible for these thefts fall into two distinct categories: the first comprises thrill-seekers who steal vehicles to joyride, often foolishly operating them on stolen plates. The second group is more organized, targeting vehicles for resale, parts stripping, or simply discarding the remains once their tasks are complete.

At the heart of this rising trend is a readily available device that, while primarily intended for legitimate use by automotive professionals for OBD data diagnostics and key reprogramming, is now being exploited by thieves.

Burglars are utilizing this gadget in conjunction with methods designed to disable alarm systems, thus affording them a crucial window of opportunity during theft attempts.

Here’s how the scheme typically unfolds:

Thieves identify a late-model Holden or HSV, disengage the front bumper to access and sever a cable that disables the horn. They then either employ a turbo decoder or use a screwdriver to force open the door lock. Next, they connect the device to the vehicle’s OBD port to silence alarms by turning off indicators along with the horn. In a matter of moments, they delete the original keys and sync new ones, allowing them to drive away.

We encountered one victim who recounted narrowly preventing the theft of his VF Calais V just this week. “I have footage of them using a [device name] key programmer,” he said. “The thief had a stolen VF with him and has been using it to target multiple VFs around the CBD.”

Despite the thief’s image being captured and fingerprints collected by the Victoria Police, he remains at large.

So, how can owners of late-model V8 Holden or HSV vehicles protect their property? First and foremost, consider restricting public use of your car and avoid leaving it parked in unsecured areas, as criminals are now brazenly targeting vehicles parked at homes, train stations, and shopping centers.

Investing in mechanical anti-theft devices such as a Club Lock or a Cop Lock can effectively hinder unauthorized access by blocking steering wheel movement or pedal operation.

For added security, installing a PIN-coded immobilizer and relocating your vehicle’s horn could also be prudent; an alarm blaring or a mechanical lock engaged will likely compel a thief to abandon their efforts in favor of an easier target.

One reputable company, Euro Chiptuning Solutions, has offered discounts on alarm and immobilizer installations for those who reference this article. Numerous other businesses are likely providing similar services, and if you own a late-model Holden or HSV, taking immediate action is imperative to safeguard against theft.

In related news, GM is working diligently to address the ongoing parts shortages impacting the Holden Commodore.

Source:www.carexpert.com.au