Don't Be Next: Increased Vehicle Airbag Thefts in Prince William County

Airbag thefts have recently been popping up in Prince William County.

The police report that thieves have been smashing windows and taking airbag systems in the Lake Ridge area. Hondas and Nissans have been hit on Rollingbrook Drive, Cara Drive, Lotte Drive, and Renate Drive, according to PWCPD.

Read more: Two Similar Burglaries Within Hours of Each Other Hit Woodbridge

Decrease your chances of being the target of the next theft with tips from the National Insurance Crime Bureau:

• Lock your vehicle at all times
• Don’t leave anything of value inside
• Ensure your vehicle alarm is working
• Park in a well-lit area or keep your front porch lights on
• If you notice any unusual activity, such as people, vehicles out of place, strange or loud noises, etc., report it to the police immediately

Learn how to spot a phony part and avoid falling victim to fraud vehicle parts:

• Use a reputable automobile collision repair shop that employs ASE-certified mechanics
• Inspect the invoice to ensure the repair shop purchased the airbag from a manufacturer, dealer, or recycler
• If possible, inspect the airbag prior to installation
• New airbags should be packaged in a sealed container from the manufacturer
• The trim cover over the steering column should be the same color as the remaining trim interior and if it’s not that’s an indication that the airbag has been replaced
• When you turn on your vehicle’s ignition, a red SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) indicator should light up and flash in the instrument panel display that indicates the airbag system is activated
• No SRS light indicates a problem with the airbag system that could result in in no airbag activation

Report all suspicious activity to the Prince William County Police at 703-792-6500 or the Crime Prevention Unit at 703-792-7270.

Image via Shutterstock

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