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Immobiliser advice for dealers

Industry body backs up police recommendation to protect hybrid cars from being used to commit crimes.
Posted on 17 January, 2022
Immobiliser advice for dealers

Dealers are being urged by the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) to consider fitting immobilisers to cars that have become a favourite target of criminals.

The advice in an email alert to members comes after police revealed they were seeing a trend of Toyota Aquas being stolen and used in burglaries on commercial premises.

VIA notes in its message to members that police have suggested owners of the petrol hybrid cars, also known as the Toyota Prius C, should invest in an immobiliser.

Malcolm Yorston, VIA’s technical manager, adds: “We recommend you consider either fitting immobilisers to Aquas you have in stock or selling an immobiliser as an extra at time of sale.”

Police say the Aqua, New Zealand’s top used import of 2021, and other used-imported vehicles are often targeted by offenders because they do not have factory-fitted immobilisers.

For any questions, contact VIA on 0800-842-842 or email info@via.org.nz.