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As far as the tailgate lock goes, I know on the previous years all you had to do was unscrew the access panel from the inside face of the tailgate and the lock mechanism was right there to disable. I am pretty sure the new ones are the same way.
This is true. There still has to be serviceability. That said, the thief would have to get up in the bed of your truck and remove the panel, and this would all take time where he/she could be discovered.
The electric release tailgates I imagine would be the hardest, because there is nothing to "unlock." But then again, these might be the most sought-after.
You can always improve your chances by replacing the factory access panel screws and replacing them with a bolt with a unique head.
One of our local dealers is located in a seedy area. They install ignition interlocks on all of their new vehicles and then pass the cost on. They charge what it costs them and it's quit reasonable since they buy them in large quantities.
One of our local dealers is located in a seedy area. They install ignition interlocks on all of their new vehicles and then pass the cost on. They charge what it costs them and it's quit reasonable since they buy them in large quantities.
They are cheap aftermarket, too. I bought a LMU200 from GPS Track and Trace that has GPS tracking and starter block. Around 150 for the unit, and around 150 for install. If my vehicle gets stolen, it can be tracked, and I can disable the starter remotely, so when they stop for gas or whatever they will have to pull the dash or start walking.
There's a new video up on Youtube which shows the disassembly of the door handle and installation of a Jimmi Jammer plate. Thought it might be of interest to some, since it also shows where the lock rod connects to the handle and why puncturing in that spot can lead to the door being opened.
Another option is you are really prone to theft where you drive is to install a GPS locater. My business is Used Car sales and repair. We do buy here pay here and install the locaters to find the vehicles after they quit making the payments. Ours include a starter interrupt to kill the vehicle as the Repo guy swoops in. We can log into any computer and find the vehicle at anytime. Most buy here pay here dealers have this capability. It does cost the upfront fees for the electronics and a small monthly payment. Probably can talk your insurance company into a discount to offset the monthly fee.
I chuckle when they call and tell us the vehicle doesn't start. I tell them that's because you didn't make your payment but if you do it will magically start.
If I was a criminal, why would I screw around trying to break the lock? Why not just smash the window and let myself in that way?
Well since I am not a criminal and cant think like them, I would assume a busted out window would draw more attention than a small screwdriver mark. This of course is assuming you are trying to steal the entire truck and not just contents. Also smashing the window creates noise as where the screw driver does not.
Well since I am not a criminal and cant think like them, I would assume a busted out window would draw more attention than a small screwdriver mark. This of course is assuming you are trying to steal the entire truck and not just contents. Also smashing the window creates noise as where the screw driver does not.
The alarm should sound either way, so there is going to be noise...
Stealing the whole vehicle is going to be impossible without the key, unless you simply attach it to a tow truck / flatbed.
Unfortunately Superduty trucks are way too easy to break into. I do unlocks as part of my job (tow truck driver and roadside repairs) and the superduty is one of my fastest vehicles. Most times I open one in 10 seconds or less. Leaves zero damage and no evidence that it was unlocked without a key. Heck most times the alarms don't go off unless they have a decent aftermarket one.
I haven't had a 2017 yet but one of my coworkers did last week. According to him it took a little longer since they moved the lock mechanism to a slightly deeper part of the door.
Unfortunately Superduty trucks are way too easy to break into. I do unlocks as part of my job (tow truck driver and roadside repairs) and the superduty is one of my fastest vehicles. Most times I open one in 10 seconds or less. Leaves zero damage and no evidence that it was unlocked without a key. Heck most times the alarms don't go off unless they have a decent aftermarket one.
I haven't had a 2017 yet but one of my coworkers did last week. According to him it took a little longer since they moved the lock mechanism to a slightly deeper part of the door.
I'm surprised the alarm doesn't go off. It always did if I unlocked the door with the window down and opened the door. Isn't that the same thing? Getting inside is one thing but the engine can't be started without the fob can it?
Unfortunately Superduty trucks are way too easy to break into. I do unlocks as part of my job (tow truck driver and roadside repairs) and the superduty is one of my fastest vehicles. Most times I open one in 10 seconds or less. Leaves zero damage and no evidence that it was unlocked without a key. Heck most times the alarms don't go off unless they have a decent aftermarket one.
I haven't had a 2017 yet but one of my coworkers did last week. According to him it took a little longer since they moved the lock mechanism to a slightly deeper part of the door.
You say Super Duties are easy to break into, but also you haven't done a 2017 yet so any comments regarding weaknesses of older models is moot for this forum. It's all new and I'm assuming the alarm system is completely different as well. What has been your experience with the 2015+ F150s which are like the new SD?
