The next article is offered by IAT Insurance coverage Group.
Just lately, 24 industrial vehicles had been rendered ineffective at an public sale home in Pennsylvania when the Widespread Powertrain Controller (CPC) modules had been stolen from the vehicles’ dashboards. A string of CPC thefts throughout the nation have left truck homeowners and fleets with unusable vehicles at a time when having out there gear is important to maintain operations working.
Just like the inflow of stolen automotive catalytic converters due to their hint quantities of uncommon metals, CPCs are often known as the brains of economic vehicles and fetch a excessive value on the black market. Controlling the engine and powertrain features, vehicles can not run with no CPC.
Compounded by present provide chain disruptions, because of the international scarcity of microchips, vehicles whose CPCs are stolen are sometimes thought of a complete loss due to the issue sourcing new ones.
Seven methods to handle CPC theft for drivers and fleet carriers
A proactive method is the very best deterrent for theft of any form, particularly relating to essential components that hold your fleet in movement. Listed here are seven methods insurance coverage brokers can advise their fleet homeowners and operators on methods to assist deter CPC theft each on the street and when a automobile isn’t in use:
- Lock the doorways. Whereas this may sound like an apparent approach to deter theft, drivers usually go away vehicles unlocked through the loading and unloading course of, and when stopping for a break when parked at their place of domicile. It’s all about limiting entry to the dashboard. All energy models must be routinely locked and secured when not occupied – even when the driving force is steps away from the cab for only a minute or two.
- Plan your route. A vital ingredient of security and theft prevention is route planning. Pre-planning routes may also help pinpoint secure places to cease when on the street.
- Search secure parking. Drivers ought to find a fenced or gated location to park, both at their dwelling terminal or when out on the street, paying shut consideration to decide on well-lit areas when out there.
- Choose a safe password. All CPCs in fleets ought to have designated passwords which may be set by contacting the CPC producer.
- Report stolen CPCs. Fleet carriers and truckers ought to notify native regulation enforcement and truck producers instantly after a theft happens.
- Cross-reference automobile identification numbers from CPCs. CPCs introduced in for set up to dealerships and restore amenities must be checked towards the corporate’s database of CPCs to make sure the module hasn’t been stolen or illegally offered.
- Notify officers in case you uncover a stolen CPC. Sellers and restore amenities ought to name native regulation enforcement and the trucking producer when a stolen CPC turns up.
CPC theft is a serious disruption for fleet operations. Along with substitute and restore prices, stolen CPC models can lead to missed supply deadlines for the fleet and disruptions for the companies ready for the supply.
Future deliveries will probably be impacted in addition to motor carriers contending with provide chain points whereas they anticipate a brand new CPC. Worst-case state of affairs: Your automobile might be totaled if CPC substitute elements can’t be discovered.
Contact IAT for extra info for minimizing the specter of CPC theft.