7 Steps to Combat the Rising Threat of CPC Theft for drivers and fleet carriers

This post is part of a series sponsored by IAT Insurance Group.

Recently, 24 commercial trucks were rendered useless at an auction house in Pennsylvania when the Common Powertrain Controller (CPC) modules were stolen from the trucks’ dashboards.^[1] A string of CPC thefts across the country have left truck owners and fleets with unusable trucks at a time when having available equipment is vital to keeping operations running.

Similar to the influx of stolen car catalytic converters because of their trace amounts of rare metals, CPCs are known as the brains of commercial trucks and fetch a high price on the black market. Controlling the engine and powertrain functions, trucks cannot run without a CPC.

A proactive approach is the best deterrent for theft of any kind, especially when it comes to crucial elements that keep your fleet in motion. Here are seven ways fleet owners and operators can help deter CPC theft both on the road and when a vehicle is not in use:

CPC theft is a major disruption for fleet operations. In addition to replacement and repair costs, stolen CPC units can result in missed delivery deadlines for the fleet and disruptions for businesses waiting for the delivery. Future deliveries could also be impacted as motor carriers contend with supply chain issues while they wait for a new CPC.

Contact IAT for more information for minimizing the threat of CPC theft.

By Jared Fritts

[1] Fleet Equipment Magazine “Efforts to Stop CPC Module Thefts Continue,” July 1, 2022.