PORTLAND, Ore. – Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) today announced the launch of a broad company initiative to fight the pervasive theft of common powertrain controller (CPC4) modules from its vehicles.
Reported thefts of CPC4 modules from parked trucks have been on the rise, with thieves seeking reprogramming and reinstallation on other trucks. In one theft in April, modules were reported stolen from 24 trucks waiting to be sold at an auction yard in Pennsylvania. A large number of other thefts have occurred at dealerships and customer terminals. Vehicles cannot operate without a CPC, which controls various engine and powertrain functions.
In response, DTNA has instituted the following anti-theft measures:
Asking all customers and dealers to report stolen CPCs to both local law enforcement and DTNA at 1-800-FTL-HELP. Recommending all dealerships, customers and repair facilities cross reference vehicle identification numbers from CPCs brought in for installation against the company’s database of CPCs to ensure the CPC hasn’t been stolen or illicitly sold. Providing tracking capability through DTNA Service Systems to detect any stolen CPC attempting to be installed on a different VIN. Asking any dealership or repair facility with a CPC confirmed stolen to report it to both their local police agency and DTNA. Recommending all fleets and customers password-protect their CPCs.
DTNA is further collaborating with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to assist in the investigation and prosecution of CPC theft. The company will additionally evaluate and pursue as necessary civil actions for software infringement against those involved in CPC theft and mismanagement.
“The theft of CPC modules is a crime that threatens the livelihood of customers and disrupts our dealers’ operations,” said Paul Romanaggi, Chief Customer Experience Officer, DTNA. “Daimler Truck North America is committed to doing everything in its power to protect our customers and dealers from this crime, and will support prosecution of anyone found in participating in these thefts.”
About Daimler Truck North America:
Daimler Truck North America LLC, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is a leading provider of comprehensive products and technologies for the commercial transportation industry. Daimler Truck North America designs, engineers, manufactures and markets medium- and heavy-duty trucks, school buses, vehicle chassis and their associated technologies and components under the Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas Built Buses, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp and Detroit brands. Daimler Truck North America is a subsidiary of Daimler Truck Holding AG (DTG), one of the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers.
