Thieves are believed to be using key tools which can be bought by anyone online to break into Ford transit vans in Nottinghamshire.
The motor company has admitted abuse of the device is an ‘industry issue’ and thieves are taking advantage of loopholes in the law.
It comes after a transit van parked on New Eaton road, Stapleford, had £1,500 pounds worth of tools taken overnight on February 15 without any signs of damage.
It follows similar thefts from Ford transit vans in Eastwood and police believe at least two vans were targeted in Stapleford last week over two nights.
In all of the cases thieves got in without using any force and locks were left undamaged, suggesting use of the widely-available lock picking device, which can be bought for less than £17.
Nick Blainey, from Stapleford, runs a roofing and windows business and had tools taken from one of his vans when it was parked outside an employee’s house for the night.
Marie Blainey, his wife, said: “They took two Makita radios, a Stihl saw, three Makita impact drivers, a Makita drill and a circular saw.
“It’s £1,500 pounds worth of stuff but we don’t feel its worth claiming on the insurance because of the premiums and there has been no damage to the van so how do we prove what happened.
“The van automatically locks the back door so it was definitely locked when it was left overnight.
“We have staff to pay and were looking to expand but this has set us back, luckily we do have another van with more tools so work can still be done.”
In a statement Ford Motor Company, said: “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.’”
Stapleford Councillor Richard McRae said: “I think it’s irresponsible that these are available to buy, it’s easily available online without any sort of checks.
“I can understand if you are a mechanic or a locksmith but I don’t need one as a councillor.
“I have been mentioning this at a number of meetings I have been to over the years but no one seemed to listen.”
Police are investigating the theft and have urged Ford van owners to be vigilant.
Inspector Steve Wragg, said: “Following a spate of thefts from Ford transit vans in Eastwood, we now believe at least two have been targeted in Stapleford over the past two nights.
“We are taking a number of measures to target this, but would like to remind all van owners to remain vigilant and take a number of steps to secure their vehicle.
“This includes: removing tools from vehicles when unattended, using a garage if you have one, consider security lighting if your van is parked on a driveway and park in well-lit areas.
“It’s also advised to mark your van with a sticker stating all tools have been removed, as well as using permanent methods to mark any equipment with the vehicle’s registration number.”
One seller of the tool, who received a torrent of critical comments from van owners, wrote online: “There’s over 1,000 places selling these picks. The fault here is with Ford.
“Also – how would you suggest people vet customers? There is no official trade certification in the UK.”
