Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) is taking steps to combat an increase in the theft of common powertrain controller (CPC4) modules from its vehicles.

In a statement issued on Monday, May 23, DTNA reports that the theft of CPC4 modules from parked trucks is increasing, “with thieves seeking reprogramming and reinstallation on other trucks.” Many of the thefts are occurring at truck dealerships or customer terminals, Daimler reports.

The company points to an incident in April during which thieves targeted 24 trucks waiting to be sold at an auction yard in Pennsylvania.

Because trucks can’t operate without the modules, which control some engine and powertrain functions, DTNA has announced several actions to combat the thefts:

• 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.

“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.”

DTNA is working with law enforcement at the local state, and federal level to combat the module thefts. The company is also considering taking civil action for software infringement against module thieves.