(NewsUSA)
No matter what the economy's like, there's one automotive business that never runs out of gas. Theft, experts say, is a $7 billion industry.
A vehicle is stolen every 20 seconds in the U.S. Ninety percent of all auto thefts are accomplished by hot-wiring vehicles, and the largest percentage of stolen cars are taken by professionals who know how to get around alarms, clubs and other deterrents.
But while most anti-theft devices simply slow a professional thief down, there's one that's proven to put the brakes on theft.
The Powerlock "sealed" electronic system is impossible to circumvent, according to its manufacturer. Made by Powerlock International Corp., the system is continually armed by creating an open ignition circuit that disables the starting circuitry at the starter.
The company also makes Wheel Safe, wireless sensors that mount on a vehicle's wheels and wheel hubs.
Californian John Carlisle recalls what happened when a thief tried to steal his Powerlock-equipped 2004 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner.
"When I opened the driver's door, I found that my lower dash had been removed, with the factory bolts and screws placed in a neat pile on my floor mat," he says. "The thief had drilled a hole in the ignition to remove the key tumblers, which were pulled out and left on the floor mat next to the bolts and screws. "I can only imagine his surprise when my Powerlock prevented him from starting the truck. Nothing inside was touched or taken ... he went home empty-handed."
What kinds of cars catch a thief's eye? In 2005, the most stolen vehicle was the 2001 BMW M Roadster, according to CCC Information Services, a technology provider to the automotive claims and collision repair industries. Also high on the list were Hummers; Acura Integras; the 2003 and 2004 Mercury Marauder; the 2000, 2001 and 2002 Audi S4; and the 2000 Honda Civic.
Powerlock and Wheel Safe are endorsed by Duane Chapman, also known as "Dog the Bounty Hunter," star of the A&E television show of the same name.
