RAM Trucks are being targeted by thieves in Caledon

Owners of Dodge RAM trucks in Caledon and across the GTA are being warned to take extra precautions as thieves are reportedly targeting the vehicles. The OPP says Caledon hasn’t been spared from the rash of recent vehicle thefts in Mississauga, Brampton, and other parts of the GTA, and that Dodge RAM pick-up trucks made between 2020 and 2023 are being “predominantly targeted” by thieves.

Police said the thefts are usually occurring in the early hours of the day, between 2:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., and on many occasions, thieves have been observed in neighborhoods prior to the thefts occurring to record VIN numbers and disable alarm systems to facilitate the theft later.

Police crime data indicates that at least 582 vehicles have been stolen in Mississauga and Brampton since Dec. 25, 2022 — not entirely unexpected after 95 cars were stolen in just the first week of the year. A large number of stolen vehicles are being shipped overseas to be sold in used car lots, police said.

Police have been warning the public about car thieves using technology to gain access to vehicles, including “relay thefts,” which is when thieves are able to use equipment “to boost and exploit” the signals of a vehicle’s key fob.

Residents can help protect their vehicles by taking any of the following crime-prevention measures:

• Ensure your vehicle keys are kept well away from doors and windows

• Use a signal-blocking pouch/box – they can block your key fob from transmitting its code to the vehicle as the pouch is lined with layers of metallic material

• Turn off the keyless fob wireless signal at night (refer to your car manual for instructions)

• Use a steering wheel lock or car alarm – this could add a significant delay or be a deterrent for thieves

• Consider a secondary audible car alarm – which works by using sensors placed at different points of your vehicle

• Park in the garage (if possible)

• Insert a car tracker – unusual activity is monitored, and car can be tracked using GPS if stolen

• Always roll up your vehicle’s windows, lock the doors and pocket the key

• If you have a garage, use it and lock the door as well as your vehicle

• Park other vehicles behind your high-value vehicle to act as a deterrent to thieves

• Install an aftermarket anti-theft device in your vehicle in a location not easily visible

• Install a third-party GPS tracking device in the vehicle

• Keep your vehicle key fobs in a Faraday Box

• Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running

Prabhnoor Kaur