Gina Heslop
Discovering a penny in your car door handle might seem innocuous, but it could signal a cunning ploy by smart car thieves. Placing small coins in door handles, particularly on the passenger side, is their sneaky strategy. When attempting to use your key for central locking, the seemingly harmless penny lodged in the passenger door renders your key useless, leaving your vehicle vulnerable.
The thieves’ sinister plan goes beyond random snatching; they may lurk nearby, waiting for you to struggle with your key or become distracted. As a vigilant car owner, you can thwart their efforts with some DIY.
- Inspect the passenger door handle: If your key fails, channel your inner spy and examine the passenger side door handle. Look for foreign objects like the cleverly placed penny that might obstruct the mechanism.
- Stay vigilant: Sharpen your DIY skills and remain alert to your surroundings. Trust your instincts and seek help if something feels amiss, ensuring someone accompanies you to your car.
- Avoid hasty returns: If the door won’t open, resist the urge to return immediately. Instead, seek a well-lit area with people around and ask for assistance. Thieves target distracted or solitary individuals.
- Contact the police: If signs of tampering emerge or you suspect foul play, promptly call the police. They possess the expertise to handle such situations and ensure your safety.
To fortify your ride against theft:
- Enhance security: Implement DIY anti-theft measures to dissuade thieves. Consider theft-deterrent systems or a reliable steering wheel lock to make your car less appealing.
That seemingly insignificant penny in your car door handle may be a warning sign. By staying vigilant and employing these DIY tips, you can outsmart potential car thieves and safeguard your vehicle.
