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Impotent anti-theft aid means motor insurance a must

Thu, 14 Jul 2005

A popular anti-theft device used by UK police forces may no longer fight car crime, meaning consumers are being urged to ensure they have adequate Motor Insurance protect to cover non-recovery of their vehicle.

The so-called 'stingers' used by police are deployed to puncture the car tyres of stolen cars, forcing the thieves to stop. However, new technology-equipped cars, such as the BMW Z4, are no longer affected by the stinger device because of advances in tyre design.

Auto Express reports that run-flat tyres allow drivers to continue with a puncture for up to 50 miles - even at high-speeds.

"A stinger's hollow plastic spikes normally pierce the tread for a quick puncture. But with this new rubber, which has stiffened sidewalls to stop you getting a flat, they are useless," said a spokesman from the Tyre Industry Council.

It is hoped that a new anti-theft device capable of remotely cutting a vehicle's engine will soon be available as a replacement.


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