The higher gas prices get, the bigger the chances that people are going to steal gas. Do you remember in 2008 how gas stations saw a huge rise in people driving off without paying? I think it was called, “Gas and Dash”.
Something a lot of people don’t realize is that a lot of gas tanks are plastic. Thieve are getting under cars and drilling into them. It’s easier than syphoning. AAA says that if it’s a small hole, a mechanic might be able to patch it. But it could end up costing more than $1,000.
To lower the chances of thieves messing with your gas follow these tips.
- Always park in well-lit, well-traveled locations.
- Park in your garage or driveway whenever possible. If you have to park in the street, do so under street lighting near your house.
- Avoid parking in public places for extended periods of time. For example, rather than leaving your car in the airport parking lot for a week, ask a friend or neighbor for a ride.
- Position your vehicle so the fuel door is seen from a main road.
- Consider installing a locking gas cap, even if your fuel door locks.
- Remember to call 911 if you see suspicious behavior, such as someone putting a siphon into a gas tank or acting strangely around parked cars.