Pop and Lock Venerability Question

I purchased a new 3rd gen last month, and I’m already tired of using a key to unlock/lock the tailgate every time I want to secure the bed (I have a factory installed tonneau cover). There is plenty of information with pictures and video regarding the installation process for our trucks (thanks TW members), however I’m in search of either confirming or refuting a perceived security venerability.

I’m looking at this potential problem from a cabin security issue (as a retired law enforcement officer, I can’t help but to sometimes see things as a criminal would). My concern is regarding the two wires that run from the Pop and Lock (usually installed under the chassis along the frame) to the passenger door lock/unlock wires. A criminal minded individual can simply reach under the frame and feel for the Pop and Lock wire harness, then cut the wires to gain unencumbered electrical access to both the tailgate and passenger door locking actuators.

Based on my limited DC electrical knowledge, and some simple understanding of how relays and solenoids operate, it seems as though DC electrical power could be applied to the exposed wire(s), with a ground to the vehicle frame, resulting in a power bump to actuate the lock. After all, isn’t that exactly what the truck is doing when one pushes the unlock key fob button. Whatever the electrical requirement, a simple portable battery pack could easily be made to meet said power bump necessary to trip the actuator.

I have not purchased a Pop and Lock yet, and therefore cannot test this theory on the actual hardware. So my question; Is access to the truck cab available by way of applying appropriate electrical power to one of the two Pop and Lock wires, thereby engaging the unlock action of the passenger door lock actuator (or to the tailgate if powering the opposite direction)?

If so, additional care to reduce this venerability during installation should be observed... like wrapping and/or shielding the harness, as well securing the wires high and away out of normal arm’s reach. Thanks in advance for your shared knowledge.

 

I think you are overthinking this. It highly unlikely someone would go to the trouble to do what you are thinking. Or actually think about stealing from you in that way. It is way more common and practical to just smash your window and unlock the doors as well as your tailgate. A hidden valet switch for the pop and lock would help you out.

 

I doubt car thieves are looking to see if you have a pop n lock. Only takes 1 second to break the window.

 

I guess it depends on how well you hide your wiring, but honestly I wouldn't be worried about them cutting wires. If you're in an area where tailgates get stolen constantly, I'd definitely check out this tailgate lock to give you absolute peace of mind https://sabellco.com/store/index.php?route=product/category&path=33_60.
Also, don't waste money on a pop and lock when you can do it yourself for $15 https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/10-diy-power-lock-tailgate.424052/

 

https://sabellco.com/store/index.php?route=product/category&path=33_60

+1 on this. Quality stuff.

 

What the others have said. Since the pop and lock is aftermarket it would be unlikely thieves would target it. A relay attack in the keyless entry is far more likely and works on most vehicles factory.

https://www.welivesecurity.com/2017/11/29/keyless-convenience-security-risk-car-theft/

 

As a retired law enforcement officer, you should know that if they want in they are getting in. I dont care what you use for security.

 

Run it along your frame in some conduit?

Other than that, hide it well and don't worry too much about it. As mentioned, breaking a window would be much easier.

 

As I read the OP, that thought immediately came to my mind.
You aren't doing this to prevent a determined thief. You're doing this to make it more resistant to a casual passerby and for your convenience.