As gas prices continue to rise, experts are warning that gas thefts are likely to increase as well.
Matthew Conde, the Public Affairs Director for AAA Oregon and Idaho told KEZI that the primary methods of gas theft are likely to be siphoning or drilling into the tank.
“A messed up fuel tank can cost as much as a thousand dollars to replace,” he said.
His best advice? Park next to high-traffic areas near a building exit or elevator. Areas without an enclosed or well-lit parking area are likely to be targeted, and if you can’t park elsewhere, Conde recommends a gas cap lock. They’re relatively cheap, usually less than ten dollars, and are a breeze to install.
His final advice is that if you do find your car has been victimized, you should act quickly.
“…File a police report and then reach out to your insurance agent and see if your policy covers those repairs,” said Conde.
It’s also recommended to pay attention to new smells and performance in your vehicle. A clear gasoline smell could mean that you’ve got a hole in your tank, and reduced mileage is another marker of gas theft.
By Ethan Hauck
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