Side mirror theft is not a new phenomenon, but it is an increasing problem in some affluent areas of Amsterdam. In these neighborhoods, garages are scarce, meaning car owners often park their expensive vehicles outside their homes, making them easy targets for thieves.
A recent video shared on Instagram showcased several luxury car models, including: a Ferrari Purosangue supercar, an Aston Martin DBX, a Range Rover Sport, and several Porsches, all fitted with protective covers and locks.
Modern side mirrors integrate advanced technology: wide-angle cameras for parking assistance and surround view systems, blind spot warning lights, auto-dimming glass, heating elements, and memory-positioning motors. A replacement mirror for a Tesla Model 3 or BMW 5 series can cost from 800 to over 2,000 USD at a dealership, excluding labor. For larger SUVs and premium models, this figure can exceed 3,000 USD.
Thieves exploit this value. They can remove a mirror in under two minutes using basic tools. These parts are then easily sold through black market channels, online, or via unscrupulous auto repair shops, offering cheaper alternatives to genuine dealership prices. A stolen mirror, which costs someone 1,500 USD to replace, might fetch only 400 USD in cash for the thief, no questions asked.
To counter this, an increasing number of Amsterdam residents are equipping their vehicles with lockable mirror covers. These covers are typically made from durable Kevlar and steel mesh, accompanied by a bicycle-style lock that wraps around the side mirror. This setup makes theft significantly more challenging, especially during the day.
These covers are available online, with options for various vehicle types. Prices vary, starting from under 100 USD and potentially exceeding 200 USD, depending on the material. For instance, a ProKevLock cover costs 180 USD.
Thieves operating in public spaces typically seek a quick snatch. A mirror encased in a locked cover requires additional time and tools to remove, increasing the risk of getting caught, which often deters them. While these covers may not win any design awards, in a city where a car's side mirror can vanish overnight, a simple protective bag can save owners time and money.
My Anh (via Autoblog)
