Huge Increase in Tailgate Thefts

We Texans love our pick-up trucks.

Apparently, thieves do, too.  The theft of pick-up tailgates has been rising at an alarming rate. 

According to a report in the Detroit News, the National Insurance Crime Bureau cites data that shows that the theft of tailgates has risen 100 to 200 fold in just the last 5 years, and those are the ones that are reported to insurance companies.  Most of these types of thefts go unreported since the cost to replace is less than the truck owner's insurance deductible.

So why the major upswing in tailgate thefts?

The two main reasons are that there is a market for them and tailgates are very easy to steal.  However, some major car manufacturers are implementing manual and remote locks on some of their newer models.  Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors are adding this feature, but as with any new addition, an increase in price will be added.

Do you have any ideas on how to safeguard your tailgate?