Just got the following info from my insurance company.
It seems that certain areas in Essex are being 'targeted'.
......................................................
"Over the past 2 months we have seen an increase in thefts of Fiat Motorhomes due to technology available to purchase online, which overrides the manufacturer standard security.
Areas specifically targeted are along the A127 within the postal codes of:
CM
CO
RM
SS
If you own a Fiat Motorhome in these areas please be aware of the increased theft risk.
While Motorhome thefts are rare, our claims statistics have shown that Fiats are being targeted. We recommend investigating and installing deterrents and/or taking preventative measures to decrease the risk of theft. Steering wheel locks, wheel-clamps and door locks are some ideas for extra security.
We would also like to mention that Ford Motorhomes still have the highest theft rates in the
above areas particularly including:
SO
BH
If you are thinking of, or have already purchased a Ford Motorhome please be aware of this increased risk and fit preventatives to the vehicle.
As a result of the increased risk with Ford Motorhomes and Campervans we require certain types of security when you take out or renew an insurance policy with us.
The underwriters, Aviva require your Motorhome to be fitted with a Meta Trak VTS or Thatcham Approved Category 5 or 6 tracking device."
......................................................
Further to the above just had a second Email:
"Following on from our previous email in regards to the Ford and Fiat theft update, we would just like to clarify that the underwriters Aviva only need the tracking devices fitted onto the Ford based vehicles.
The information regarding the Fiat based vehicles is just a precaution to inform you that we have seen an increase in thefts in the past two months. Aviva's current security requirements have not changed but we do recommend being extra vigilant at this time."
..............................................
Post last edited on 27/11/2018 18:29:37
------------- The older I get the better I used to be.
We had a ford Transit base motorhome stolen without keys in May. A gang of 4 took it from our drive in a matter of minutes under the cover of a thunderstorm.
The guess is they used s device called a Tibbe lock pick avaialable online for about £30 to unlock the doors and bypass the alarm and then accessed the on board diagnostic (OBD) port with a laptop and bypassed the immobiliser.
Thankfully due to cctv evidence the insurance company settled quickly but the police didn’t even visit us - just issued a crime number over the phone and advised that the best deterrent is a “Disclock” steering wheel lock that covers the whole steering wheel.
We now have a Ducati based A class so I am a little concerned that There may be a similar system for taking that.
------------- It's only an expensive hobby when it's parked on your Drive....use it, love it , live it.
I believe that Ford transits up to Mk7 are the easiest to steal but all makes and ages are at risk. (With Fords entry is gained using a Tibbe lock pick then imobiliser and alarm hacked via OBD Port)
When our old van was stolen the police advised that the best defence is a discloc (I am not selling them just passing on what the police advised us).
Our new van is kept on our drive behind a retractable bollard and under cctv with a Disclok in place.
------------- It's only an expensive hobby when it's parked on your Drive....use it, love it , live it.
As well is two words!
How does a sage know everything about everything? or does he? or does he just think he does?
Remember, if you buy something you bought it, not brought it.
My original plan was to keep my converted VW Crafter in front of the existing garage on my drive.
However, due to parking related issues in the cul de sac where I live, in that space is limited for me to get my car in and out of my own drive at times, let alone a 6m campervan ; I decided to take down the garage to make room for the campervan instead.
To keep the van secure and for ease of manoeuvre, I shall opt for electric gates that will lock automatically when closed.
In addition, I shall get a steering wheel lock too.
I am not planning to get a wheel lock at this moment in time, as that may be a tad OTT!
Just waiting for VW to build my van, and they are very tardy at the moment - still no build date, and the van was ordered shortly before lockdown!
DK
------------- Apple The Campervan - A Van For Work, Rest & Play!
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