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Ways to Prevent Stolen Gas Save Email Print
Staunton, Va.
Posted: 5:27 PM Jun 19, 2008
Last Updated: 2:38 PM Jun 20, 2008
Reporter: Philip Townsend
Email Address: ptownsend@whsv.com

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With rising gas prices some are resorting to desperate measures to avoid paying at the pump.

A gas cap lock only costs $10, but it could save you hundreds and prevent your car from being the victim of siphoning.

What will usually happen when someone siphons from your tank, your gas cap is screwed off and the culprit gets the gas into a portable tank before leaving.

Locking gas caps are the most effective tool to prevent this from happening. Simply screw the cap on and it automatically locks. Only a key will let you re-open it.

If you don't have time to grab a locking gas cap, experts suggest parking your car in the right area.

Joey Simmons from Auto Zone says, "Basically if you can get into a well lit area where you can actually observe and see your car, then if it's sitting in the dark and nobody can see it."

While more accounts of gas being stolen can be attributed to higher gas prices, Simmons says the problem has been around for a while. Authorities also say it's important to report any case of gas siphoning.

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Posted by: Karla Location: Kansas on Sep 8, 2008 at 03:53 PM
My locking gas cap cost $18, and today when I went to refuel I realized someone has opened my fuel door and REMOVED THE LOCK from my locking gas cap. That explains why I got 6mpg less out of this tank that I ought to have. So much for an anti-theft device.

Posted by: Tony Location: Waynesboro on Jun 20, 2008 at 06:47 AM
If you plan to lock your gas cap, be advised that theives are already cutting your fill tube or will puncture the tank directly to steal your fuel. $10 for the locking cap or hundreds for a new fill tube/tank. You make the call...

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