Tailgate Theft: The $3,000 Mistake You Can Prevent

Tailgate theft is an ongoing concern for truck owners across the U.S., with thousands of tailgates stolen each year. These thefts are quick, easy, and costly—replacement tailgates can cost upwards of $3,000, especially for newer models equipped with backup cameras and advanced features.

Adding valuable accessories, such as a TailHand®, to a tailgate makes a tailgate more attractive to thieves. Whether you're a fleet manager, skilled tradesperson, or DIYer who uses a pickup to get work done, understanding tailgate theft risks and prevention methods goes a long way toward protecting your investment.

The Scope of Tailgate Theft

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), insured tailgate thefts peaked at 1,895 claims in 2014 and have since stabilized at around 1,788 annually. However, these figures only represent reported insurance claims; the actual number of thefts is likely much higher. According to NIBC, Texas leads the nation in tailgate thefts, followed by California, Florida, Arizona, and Nevada.

Thieves target tailgates because they are easy to remove—often in under 60 seconds—and highly valuable on the black market. A stolen tailgate can sell for hundreds of dollars on platforms like Craigslist or eBay. For truck owners, replacing a tailgate through legitimate channels can cost over $1,000 for basic models and up to $3,500 for premium variants equipped with cameras and step-assist features, according to Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (AATA).

Expert Insights on Tailgate Theft Prevention

Fred Zumbo, Director of the AATA emphasizes that preventing tailgate theft is both inexpensive and effective: “Locking and securing your tailgate at all times is critical. Simple DIY solutions like hose clamps around the hinge mechanism can deter thieves significantly.” Sergeant Tracy Hicks from the Houston Police Department echoes this sentiment: “An inexpensive clamp lock can make it almost impossible to steal your tailgate. You literally can’t take it off without sawing through the lock" Hicks explains.

Innovative Ways to Prevent Tailgate Theft

1. Install Anti-Theft Devices

Products like the Pop & Lock Tailgate Defender or Gate Keeper® provide robust protection against theft. At around $30, these devices are affordable and easy to install in minutes. They fit securely around the tailgate hinge or pivot point, preventing removal without specialized tools.

2. Use Clamp Locks or Hose Clamps

For a low-cost solution, consider using metal hose clamps around the tailgate hinges. This DIY method takes just two minutes to install and prevents thieves from easily detaching your tailgate.

3. Park Strategically

Parking in a locked garage is ideal, but if that’s not possible:

• Back your truck close to a wall or another vehicle to restrict access to the tailgate.
• Avoid parking in high-theft areas like shopping malls.

4. Lock Your Tailgate

Many newer trucks come equipped with electronic tailgate locks that sync with door locks. If your truck doesn’t have this feature, ensure your tailgate is locked using the key lock whenever you’re away from your truck. If your truck just doesn’t have a tailgate lock, aftermarket keyed locks are available for around $60.

5. Etch Identifying Information

Etching your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) onto your tailgate deters thieves by making resale more difficult. This simple step adds an extra layer of security and aids recovery if theft occurs.

An Ounce of Prevention

As tradespeople, your tools are crucial to getting work done. Adding TailHand to your arsenal provides a valued professional-grade workstation that delivers return-on-investment when working at remote work sites. Don’t forget to secure your investment by securing your tailgate.

Tailgate theft is an expensive inconvenience that can happen in seconds—but it’s also preventable. By ensuring your tailgate is secure, parking strategically, and adding identifying information on your tailgate, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim. Protect your investment today—because prevention is always cheaper than replacement.