Unfortunate theft

Two nights ago I had my pioneer 2400bt CD/DVD touchscreen stolen out of my truck. Pretty upset about it but things could have been much worse.

Asking for recommendations of a double din stereo with a detachable face to avoid this unfortunate incident again?

Or should I just replace with a non-detachable stereo and upgrade my security system?

This is the first theft I have experienced, so I feel pretty fortunate, but want to make sure I take the appropriate steps from here. Thanks for any input.

 

That sucks. I don't have any recommendations, but detachable face is the way to go IMO. Thieves go for what they can see 90% of the time, plus people barely pay attention to car alarms these days. No face might prevent damage to truck.

 

thanks Dave. I was thinking along the same lines.

 

Other option is to get an Ottonavi unit. It gets less attention from thieves because it's factory-looking and not as easily transferrable to other vehicle models.

 

How did they get the double din out? Mine is bolted to brackets bolted to the truck. If yours is the same. I honestly dont think anything but a better security system will work because if it was bolted in they were determined.

 

The brackets themselves are installed with four screws. If the thief is prepared with basic tools (trim pry bar to remove HVAC panel, electric screw driver to loosen the four screws), the whole process takes less than a minute.

 

If they went through all that then most likely someone you know as much as I hate to say it. And a detach face isn't going to save you much next time. You can usually buy a face from ebay for less than 100. 00

Hopefully insurance will pay for it.

 

deterrence
- viusal arm indicator
- noisemaker
- ID etching sticker on window
- lighting whenever possible where parked (motion sensor light to save $)

limit resale market
- unique to vehicle, no generic use

prevention
- lock doors

have insurance, low deductible if all else fails

someone covets it enough, they will risk all the above
just buy what you want, don't limit your choices due to a "what if"

and don't underestimate the inginuity of those who swipe stuff from cars. have had a stereo stolen, and one attempted theft of stereo. i was amazed how they got in despite locked doors.
therefore - deterrence is your best option

 

While this is true, keep in mind stolen parts need to be fenced below retail value. A stolen $600 head unit might fetch only $300. A potential buyer would be deterred from buying if he has to buy another $100 faceplate from eBay.

 

After being victim of multiple thefts of not only head units, but entire sound systems, I learned that the best way, is to hide or "cloack" your system. Yes, back then I was a teenager that wanted to show off my system and it was exposed for everyone to see! As I got older and wiser, I realized that burglars go for whatever is marketeable; usually aftermarket accessories. So I began by leaving the factory "lame" head unit, and adding an aftermaket unit of my choice inside the globe compartment or center console. Speakers were replaced with same size as OEMs but of good quality, and amps and crossovers were hidden inside wall wells or bolted under seats with hidden wires. Nowdays with Ipods and portable XM radios, I just install BOSE system with a 3.5mm connector on a blank switch cover. Now, no one knows what I have, and I can enjoy premium surround sound!

 

all great points! Thanks guys!