Victorian car owners splashing cash on security devices as thieves wreak havoc with new tech gadgets

It’s a relic from the past, but Melburnians are turning back to this gadget to protect their cars from a new style of thief using “modern day screwdrivers” to override security systems.

Auto retailers are recording significant increases in sales of antitheft devices as Victorians brace a car theft crisis. Picture: Supplied

Victorians are turning back to old-school, manual security systems to protect their cars in wake of a technology-fuelled vehicle theft crisis.

Auto retailers have revealed a huge spike in lock-and-key anti-theft gadgets as motorists equip themselves against tech-savvy offenders.

Repco told the Herald Sun the retailer saw a “significant increase” in sales of steering wheel locks over the past months, recording the sharpest rise in purchases in Victoria.

“Based on what we’re seeing, our customers are increasingly turning to practical and affordable solutions to protect their cars,” they said.

“Of the range of antitheft solutions we sell at Repco, steering wheel locks have had by far the most growth.

“Well priced and easy to fit, the steering wheel lock is a popular option for peace of mind.”

Repco recorded a 'significant increase' in sales of steering wheel locks in Victoria, which retail for around $50. Picture: Repco

The owner of A1 Autoparts in Niddrie, Stephen Luca, said customers were seeking out security tools and calling for advice on how to protect their vehicles.

The business recorded a 40 per cent rise in sales of steering wheel locks and a 35 per cent increase in sales of antitheft screws for number plates.

Mr Luca said he was directing customers to purchase alarm systems and tracking devices at other stores as car thefts shoot to the highest rate seen in more than two decades.

A1 Autoparts Niddrie has recorded a sharp rise in sales of antitheft screws and steering wheel locks. Picture: A1 Autoparts Niddrie website

While steering wheel locks can be removed with force, Mr Luca said the devices were still a good strategy to deter thieves.

“In today’s environment, you’ve got cordless grinders and they cut things off anyway,” he said.

“It’s more of a deterrent — ‘that’s got one on it, let’s go to the next car’ sort of thing.”

Motorists are also turning to number plate antitheft screws and jaw wheel clamps to keep their cars safe.

Analysis of Google search data shows searches for “car lock” and “steering wheel lock” are at a 20-year high.

It comes after Victoria Police revealed that thieves were using electronic devices to start-up and steal cars without needing to use keys.

Car thieves are using electronic gadgets to read and override security systems in cars to steal vehicles without needing keys. Picture: Brendan Francis

Police turned to discussions with car manufacturers and insurance companies after uncovering offenders were using gadgets dubbed “modern day screwdrivers” to override security systems for as many in one in five thefts across the state. That’s about 5000 cars in the last year alone.

The spread of the key gadget among thieves has resulted in a huge spike in car thefts — the highest rate seen since 2003 — with offenders honing in on cars with push-start ignitions that can be overridden with the technology.

Some 25,773 vehicles were stolen in the twelve months to September 2024 — 33 per cent more than the year before.

“On the frontline, it’s become clear these devices are well understood and frequently used by offenders,” SD2 Investigations and Response inspector Scott Dwyer said.

Police released a public warning last week urging car owners to install their own security devices to protect themselves from brazen thieves.

While motorists turn to steering wheel locks, authorities recommended motorists purchase on board diagnostic (OBD) port locks.

Police are recommending motorists purchase OB locks. Picture: Amazon

These can be self-installed over the diagnostic port in a car – where thieves can gain direct access to the security and electronic system of the vehicle.

Thieves are plugging their devices into the diagnostic port to gather data needed to mimic car keys. Locks cover this port and can only be taken off with a separate key.

“We strongly encourage owners of impacted cars to consider all possible methods to improve their vehicle’s security,” vehicle crime squad detective inspector Julie MacDonald said.

“There are a range of auto shops and websites that stock these antitheft products, and staff can assist with advising you on what will best suit your vehicle.”