16 Clever Ways to Protect Yourself from EV Charging Cable Theft

Automobile theft is not a new scenario, but thieves nowadays are using new tactics. In case you haven’t heard, they do not take away the whole car these days, instead, they take out valuable parts, like catalytic converters from gas cars. But as the electric vehicle revolution gains momentum, there are now increasing cases of EV charging cable theft. Through this short but impactful article, we will shed light on tips to protect from and prevent charging cable theft.

Ways to Protect Yourself from EV Charging Cable Theft

I know many owners wonder why a thief would take their charging cable instead of the car. Well, there are practical reasons behind this.

• They target unattended EV charging cables to sell them quickly for a profit.
• Some believe that these cables are being stolen because they contain copper.

Now let us move ahead to read more about how you can protect your EV charging cable from theft.

It is best to charge your car in your garage if possible. Charge in a location that is not easily visible from the street in order to reduce the EV charging cable theft risk.

1. Avoid Disconnecting while Using Public Charging

Thieves steal charging cords and others may use your cable when you’re not around. Fortunately, the majority of car manufacturers offer locking mechanisms to securely fasten your plug-in device in place when you shut and lock your car doors. Tesla’s firmware update for at-home chargers (Gen 3) renders them useless for other cars, even non-Teslas.

2. Use Cord Locks for Aftermarket Purposes

Take some time to thoroughly research different cable-locking devices available in the aftermarket. Find the one that best suits your charging needs and ensures the utmost security. For example, a ring device that secures Tesla charger adapters to the handle. In addition, there are loop-ended cord locks available that allow you to securely fasten your cable to various solid surfaces near the charging area.

3. Use Dashcam with Motion Sensor

Additionally, you have the option to acquire a dashcam equipped with motion sensors. Having video evidence of a crime won’t stop theft, but it can prove to your car insurance company that the crime happened. Thus, the importance of a dashcam extends far beyond just the protection against cable theft.

4. Hide Charging Cables

You are at a higher risk of smash-and-grab crimes when you leave your valuable items visible from your windows. Treat the charging cable as a valuable possession by storing it securely out of sight in your trunk at all times.

5. Lock Your Cable inside the Trunk

Trunk break-ins are a common crime in the UK, where there are more electric cars and plug-ins compared to the US. In cases like these, there are individuals who not only steal the charging cable but also vandalize the trunk. Now, you can find travel lockboxes that can be securely attached to your trunk. Two locks are required for the lockbox and trunk tethering.

Also See: From Road to Home: EVs Could Serve as Residential Power Backup Sources

6. Use a Pad Lock

If the question – how do I protect my EV charging cable from theft – still bugs you, then go for a padlock. A small padlock can secure your cable to a fence, aluminum wheel, or the installed cable tether under your car. There’s another padlock application for the Nissan Leaf with a small hole under the cable trigger. Using a properly fitted padlock will make it much harder for someone to remove the cable from your vehicle, thus keeping it secure when you’re not around.

7. Don’t Leave the Car Empty

When charging your EV in a public area, it is strongly recommended that you stay close to your car rather than leave it unattended. By vigilantly monitoring both the vehicle and the cable, you can swiftly detect any potential thieves.

It is easier said than done, I know, which is why most experts recommend charging your EVs at home during the night. Here are the possible ways to protect against EV charging cable theft while charging at home. These aren’t the only ways to protect yourself against EV charging cable theft, the following tips and tricks below will also help you prevent such thefts at home and in public.

Also See: 16 Best EV Charging Apps in Europe

How to Avoid Charging Cable Theft while Charging at Home

The charging needs of electric cars and plug-in hybrids can vary depending on each owner’s unique circumstances.

1. Install CCTV

This provides an additional level of security against theft of EV charging cables, as it serves as a visible deterrent to potential thieves. Criminals are less likely to steal a cable if they see a camera. CCTV footage can help police identify and prosecute thieves.

2. Charge Car Out of Sight from Street

To protect your electric vehicle charging cable from theft, charge your EV in a location that is not visible from the street, especially if you don’t have a garage. Such a place adds more security against theft and makes it more difficult for potential thieves to find the car and its cable. For enhanced safety, park in well-lit areas as this deters thieves since they are more likely to be seen by people passing by or captured on camera.

3. Charge Your Car in Your Garage

Charging an electric vehicle in a garage is safer against cable theft since the car and cable are hidden from view. The garage being locked adds an extra layer of security, making it significantly harder for thieves to gain access to the vehicle and its cable. For this, you can install a dedicated home EV charger in your garage.

4. Use Smart Socket Charger with Cable-Locking

There are various home EV chargers in the market that come equipped with socketed models and a cable lock feature. This innovative feature enables users to securely lock their charging cable in place using a convenient smartphone app.

This feature enables the charger to function as a tethered model, making it hard for thieves to remove the charging cable. The charger can be stored safely when not in use to prevent theft.

5. Choose a Tethered Home EV Charger

There are two different types of chargers for electric vehicles that you can install in your home: tethered chargers and untethered chargers.

• A tethered charger is a device that comes with a charging cable permanently connected to it.
• The concept of an untethered electric car charger refers to a charging cable that is not permanently attached to the vehicle. You plug in the included charging cable to the charging unit.

Tethered EV chargers offer added security against cable theft as they are permanently connected to the charger unit. This makes it harder for thieves to remove.

Also See: What Should My Golf Cart Charger Read When Fully Charged?

Tips to Prevent EV Charging Cable Theft in Public

The following steps can help you avoid such situations. Now let us discover ways to avoid charging cable theft.

1. Check the Charging Area Beforehand

Given the increasing crime rate, it is highly advisable to thoroughly survey the surroundings before leaving your vehicle unattended. Be cautious and aware of the lighting, CCTV, and anyone acting suspiciously.

2. Don’t Leave Car Boot Open and Unattended

This tip from the list of tips to prevent EV charging cable theft may seem an obvious option but it is something most of us forget. There are instances when you go to return a trolley while shopping or other general stuff, and this simple thing slips off your mind. In just a matter of seconds, a thief can effortlessly steal your charging cable from the back of your car.

Also Read: A Journey Through the History of EV

3. Ensure Cable is Inserted Correctly into Your Vehicle

While this may appear to be a straightforward solution, it is important to note that certain vehicles are inherently more secure than others. Before leaving the vehicle, it is crucial to double-check the connection between the charger and the plug. Overall, it is advised not to leave your car unattended while charging.

4. Park on Your Cable

If you don’t have any locking devices, the simplest way to secure your charging cable is to park on top of it. Before plugging in, it is essential to carefully lay the cable on the ground. As you roll the car forward, ensure that you leave a small amount of slack. This precaution will prevent any accidental ripping of the cable from either the charging station or the car.

Note: We strongly advise against parking on the cable as this could result in damaging it. Arrange locking devices as soon as possible.

The surge in EV charging cable theft is a clear indication that these vehicles are not free from such challenges. Owners can follow the above-mentioned solutions to keep thieves away from their cables. But as the demand for sustainable transportation continues to grow, it is crucial to address the security concerns hindering its progress. It is important for manufacturers and governments to collaborate to foster better safety solutions against theft and generate widespread consciousness regarding this pressing matter.

Source: National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month