Truck got broken into last night, what to do next?

Tacoma General Discussions
1

So my truck got broken into last night. The thieves broke the tailgate handle to get into the locking mechanism and popped my tonneau cover hoping to find something worth stealing. Thankfully, there wasn’t anything important back there.

My question is, are there metal tailgate handles available to make it harder for thieves to break in next time?

Thanks and happy holidays to all!

2

Giving in to crime shouldn’t be an option. You shouldn’t make it easier for them.

3

This may sound strange, but wouldn’t it be easier just not to lock the tailgate if there’s nothing of value back there? I had a winch stolen out of my truck bed recently, but honestly, it’s cheaper than having a busted tailgate or a damaged tonneau cover. When I’ve lived in places with a lot of vehicle break-ins, I would just leave the car doors unlocked.

4

@Nori
That’s a good way to get your tailgate stolen.

5

Xander said:
@Nori
That’s a good way to get your tailgate stolen.

In the OP’s situation, they were breaking the locks to open the tailgate, so locking it wouldn’t stop it from being stolen.

6

@Nori
Tailgate theft is a real issue in many areas.

Maybe lock the tailgate but leave the last flap of the tonneau cover unlatched.

7

@Nori
With the rainy season here, that’s not really an option since I need to keep things dry back there. I also keep emergency supplies and some miscellaneous items in my truck bed. I wouldn’t want anyone having easy access to it. A metal handle setup would definitely help prevent this type of break-in, unless they’re really determined to bend the tailgate to get to the lock.

I’ve been looking for a solution but haven’t found anything yet.

8

@Channing
That makes sense. I thought your bed was usually empty based on the original post. I’ve installed a Pelican rail mount kit with a lock box for the things I don’t want to carry in and out of the house.

9

@Nori
Not sure why you’re getting downvoted, but like the other person said, if they decide to steal your tailgate, it takes no time at all unless you add extra security. A hose clamp could help as a deterrent, but even then, it would only add a minute or two if they have a screwdriver.

I had mine stolen right outside my bedroom window. I heard my tailgate opening and by the time I got up, they had already thrown it into the back of a Camry and took off.