Theft of Dodge Rims

[avatar307]

I was curious if this is a wide spread issue other people are seeing.

I recently had my 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 stolen for the tires and wheels. (The theives were nice enough to put it up on blocks and not just drop it, so I'm trying to hold my temper.)

According to the guy at the Dodge Collision and Repair center the upgraded alloy wheels are a popular item currently. He said he sees up to 3 a week with smashed columns and no wheels. I initially thought it was because the person who owned it before me had put Pirelli Scorpion ATR tires on it. Am I mistaken?

He also said that having keyed lug nuts really don't deter theft, as you can buy kits for all the combinations. (I'm exploring car alarm opinions while they're waiting on parts.) Thoughts, comments, suggestions?

Basically, I'm just grasping at straws currently. I fear if I don't do something I'm never going to get a good nights sleep again. Is it true what I'm hearing, did I buy a vehicle 6 weeks ago that is constantly going to be stolen for it's tires?

Oh, and what do ya'll (yes, I'm posting from Texas) think about something like the infamous "The Club." It is worth the hassle or is it just something they'll rip out in 30 seconds? What about an alarm? Will $350-$500 worth of sirens and flashing lights really deter someone who knows what they're doing?

Thanks in advance!

[G-man422]

Sorry for your misfortune. Theives can disarm an alarm like no ones business. I say try the club.

[HEMIDAZE]

I saw a show about the club a few years ago. Yes, it's extreemly hard to cut through, however you can remove it by cutting the steering wheel in about 1 minute. I have read that theft of these wheels is common in TX. Locks keep honest people honest.

[avatar307]

Many thanks all. I plan on having a Clifford alarm installed as soon as I get it back. Might even pick up a club on the way. And I had them put McGard locks on the wheels this time. Hopefully, that will be enough.

-MC

[G-man422]

Sounds like you've taken the neccisary precausions. good luck.

[crazys182003]

Sorry to hear bout your problem. I don't have that here in PA. Heck I even know of people that every night they leave their keys in their ignition and their trucks unlocked. Its just not too bad theif wise around me. Heck if you are parking your truck for long lengths though why not investigate getting a boot or so? I dunno how good or bad they are but they might keep two wheels on then.

[imtheoneandonlyD]

Theft of the 3g ram is really bad in parts of the US. The club will hardly do anything as previously stated it can be removed in under 3 minutes by anyone who knows what they are doing. I would just recommend a high quality alarm which it sounds like you have. Try not to park in dark places, get motion lights, that kinda thing. Best of luck to you.

[society909]

Here is how I protect mine I keep it in a fenced yard with three big dogs. My truck and any tools or anything inside the bed are safe.