Drivers are being cautioned to safeguard their vehicles against fuel thefts as incidents rise amidst the Iran war oil crisis. The Mirror recently highlighted the growing trend of criminals targeting motorists and HGV owners by stealing diesel and petrol from unattended vehicles, sometimes resorting to drilling into fuel tanks to evade anti-siphoning technology.
In a recent case, a lorry depot in Grantham had approximately 25,000 liters of diesel siphoned clandestinely, while in Worcester, a driver discovered his Jaguar’s fuel cap loose and fuel gauge depleted upon returning to a multi-storey car park.
Referred to as ‘fuel bandits,’ these criminals target multiple vehicles in a single night, selling the stolen fuel on the black market. To mitigate the risk of being a victim, Halfords motoring expert Andy Turbefield suggests practical steps:
Investing in a locking fuel cap serves as a straightforward and effective deterrent against fuel theft, particularly for large lorries and commercial vehicles that may have less secure caps. Opting for a high-quality cap meeting UK MOT test standards can dissuade potential thieves.
Although not foolproof, opportunistic thieves are less likely to target well-lit areas or locations with visible CCTV cameras. When parking away from home, selecting busy car parks or streets with surveillance cameras is advisable.
For added security at home, consider installing motion-sensor lighting in your driveway, as the sudden illumination can deter thieves. Certain vehicles, like SUVs and older models lacking locking fuel caps, are at higher risk of fuel theft.
Commercial vehicles, such as vans and pick-ups, are common targets due to their large fuel tanks and the high diesel cost. Drivers of SUVs and 4x4s with substantial fuel capacities should exercise extra caution, particularly during escalating fuel prices.
While some thieves still siphon fuel, a newer method involves drilling into the fuel tank directly for rapid drainage. Vehicles like SUVs, 4x4s, and vans, which sit higher off the ground, are more susceptible to this type of theft.
If you suspect your tank has been tampered with, avoid starting the vehicle and seek professional assistance immediately. Signs of tank drilling include a strong petrol odor, a puddle beneath the vehicle, and a significant fuel level drop.
Report any suspicious activity or petrol smells in your vicinity to the police promptly. Monitoring your fuel levels each time you return to your vehicle can help detect any unexplained drops that could indicate theft attempts.
Considering a vehicle change, opting for fully electric vehicles can eliminate the risk of fuel theft, as pointed out by Halfords’ Head of Quality. Moving away from petrol and diesel can decrease reliance on fuel, reducing vulnerability to price fluctuations and theft triggered by global conflicts.
