Ford has responded to a police statement, which urged drivers of Ford Transit vans to be vigilant after a number of reported crimes involving the vehicles.

The police claim there’s been a number of reports about thefts from Transits, but on each occasion no damage was done to the vans.

It is believed the offenders are using a “lock pick” device which can easily be purchased on the internet, to bypass the lock system.

A spokesperson for Ford said this was an industry-wide problem: “Ford takes vehicle security very seriously and we heavily invest in security solutions that are built into our vehicles to deter theft. Our security team routinely monitors and investigates new ways thieves are targeting our vehicles to maintain a high level of deterrence. We are constantly learning more about the latest techniques thieves are using to gain access to vehicles, and whether there are additional enhancements we can make in our vehicles.

“Specifically on ‘lock picks’ being used by thieves, this is an industry issue that Ford and all other manufacturers, and including the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders), have been working to address for some time. You can purchase lock picks and other tools for any manufacturer. The issue is exacerbated by a lack of legislation, enabling anybody (not just licensed locksmiths) to purchase these locksmith tools over the internet and other specific hardware outlets. Ford has taken a proactive approach to advance its lock barrel design and have developed an aftermarket solution to help prevent thefts of vehicles accessible with these ‘lock picks.’ Ford has launched its Trade Vehicle Locks* Vehicle Security Programme this year which has taken the initiative to deter vehicle thefts.”

Ford also pointed out that:

• Ford Transit has been the market-leading product in the UK for 50 years and as such around one in four vans on the road is a Ford – hence why sometimes it seems we have a larger number of thefts.
• As always, we recommend that customers take practical steps to deter break-in and theft, such as locking doors, closing windows, parking in well-lit places, and avoiding leaving valuables visible.