A common powertrain controller (CPC) is an essential electronic component in trucks that controls various functions. When thieves target CPCs, they can disrupt operations and cause significant financial losses for trucking companies.
If you’re responsible for ensuring that the fleet runs securely, CPC theft incidents bring about multiple worries. Given the financial implications and safety risks associated with the loss of this part, you need practical solutions to protect your trucks.
Become aware of the risks of CPC theft, how it can affect your business, and how to safeguard your vehicles.
What is a CPC Module?
A CPC module is often referred to as the brain of a truck. It is a critical component that controls the truck’s powertrain and various engine functions. Without a functioning CPC, a truck is inoperable.
The CPC acts like a communication hub. It connects the motor control module (MCM) to important parts of the truck that help it operate smoothly:
- Odometer: The CPC keeps track of how far the truck has traveled.
- Gas and brake pedals: This component helps control how the truck responds when you press the gas or brake pedals.
- Fuel gauge: The CPC also manages the fuel gauge so you can monitor how much is left in the tank.
This part contributes to engine performance as well, including fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control. Similar to the theft of catalytic converters for their rare metals, CPC theft stems from the value of these components on the resale market.
What Is the Cost of CPC Module Theft?
The cost of CPC module theft can be significant and multifaceted, impacting trucking operations in various ways.
First, the immediate financial burden includes the cost of replacing the stolen CPC unit. Stolen modules often sell well on the resale market due to high demand and limited availability. The ongoing global shortage of microchips has led to replacement modules being on back order. This shortage makes it challenging for trucking businesses to source new units.
In addition to the replacement costs, CPC theft can lead to substantial indirect costs. The theft often results in damage to the truck, including:
- Broken windows
- Dashboard damage
- Compromised wiring harnesses
This destruction can incur additional repair expenses. Moreover, CPC theft can cause significant delays in operations, leading to a drop in productivity and revenue. Trucks with stolen CPCs become unusable, resulting in missed delivery deadlines and disruptions for businesses relying on timely shipments. This ripple effect can impact future deliveries as fleets struggle to maintain their schedules while waiting for new CPCs.
In the worst-case scenario, if replacement parts cannot be found, the impacted vehicle may be considered a total loss, compounding the financial impact on the fleet owner.
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Why is CPC Theft on the Rise Right Now?
CPC theft is still prevalent due to a combination of factors that make criminals target these valuable components:
- Microchip shortage: Since 2020, factory closures and supply chain disruptions have made it challenging for manufacturers to keep up with demand. These circumstances led to a backlog of replacement parts. With this scarcity increasing the value of CPCs on the resell market, thieves sell stolen modules at a significant markup.
- High demand: Commercial trucks need CPCs to operate, as they control critical engine and powertrain functions.
- Valuable metals: CPC modules contain precious metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum. These materials further enhance the resale value of stolen CPCs.
- Ease of theft: Stealing a CPC module is relatively quick and requires only simple tools. Thieves can remove these components from parked trucks in just a few minutes.
7 Tips to Protect Your Trucks from CPC Theft
Here are some actionable strategies to prevent CPC theft in your fleet.
1. Beef Up Your Perimeter Security
Invest in advanced perimeter security solutions like electric fencing to make your fleet less attractive to thieves. A secure perimeter greatly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access to your property.
Electric fences use electrified wires to deliver a safe but memorable pulsed electric shock every 1.3 seconds. With this physical and psychological deterrent in place, it’s much less likely that would-be criminals will even attempt to access your trucks.
2. Choose Secure Parking Locations
When parking trucks, prioritize locations that are well-lit, monitored, and frequented by other vehicles. Look for fenced or gated areas, especially when parking overnight or in unfamiliar locations. Secure parking reduces the risk of theft and provides peace of mind for drivers. Well-lit, busy areas are less attractive to thieves, as these individuals prefer to operate in secluded locations where they are less likely to be seen.
3. Add Security Lighting
Adequate lighting can deter thieves who prefer to work in darkness. Well-lit areas increase visibility, making it harder for criminals to operate without being noticed.
Install bright, energy-efficient lighting around your parking area and property perimeter. Perimeter alarm-based security lights activate whenever an electric fence goes into alarm, flooding the area with light to increase visibility and alert security personnel to the potential threat.
4. Install Updated Cameras
Invest in modern security camera systems that provide high-resolution video and remote monitoring capabilities. Ensure that cameras are strategically placed to cover all entry points and vulnerable areas along the perimeter. In the event of a theft, recorded footage can help identify suspects and provide evidence for law enforcement.
With commercial video surveillance and monitoring systems as the perfect add-on to electric fence solutions, you can:
- Capture criminal activity
- Access footage from anywhere
- Share footage with law enforcement
5. Create Awareness
A well-informed workforce can act as the first line of defense against theft. When employees are vigilant and aware of their surroundings, they are more likely to notice suspicious activity. Conduct training sessions to educate employees about the risks of CPC theft and the importance of security protocols. Share information about recent theft incidents and encourage proactive behavior.
6. Install and Set Vehicle Alarms
Equip trucks with reliable anti-theft systems and alarms that activate when unauthorized access is detected. Ensure drivers are trained to use these systems effectively.
Vehicle alarms can alert individuals to potential theft, making it less likely that thieves will attempt to steal a CPC. The sound of an alarm can draw attention and deter criminals from continuing their actions.
7. Talk to Neighbors
Build relationships with neighboring businesses and local truck companies to share information about theft trends and security measures. Consider forming a community watch program to enhance collective security efforts. Collaboration with other businesses can lead to increased awareness of potential threats and a quicker response to suspicious activity.
Protect Your Trucks from CPC Theft With AMAROK
Electric fences and perimeter security systems create a physical barrier that deters thieves from accessing trucks parked in vulnerable areas. When combined with other protective strategies like video surveillance and Gate Access Control, electric fences can help trucking companies safeguard their vehicles and valuable components at every level. These security measures prevent unauthorized access and allow property owners to monitor their assets.
AMAROK serves over 8,000 customers across 49 states with premium perimeter security solutions. With the installation of our flagship product, The Electric Guard Dog™ Fence, 99% of our customers experience zero external theft.
Contact our team for a free expert threat assessment and see how we can protect your fleet.
