5 reasons why older HGVs are more vulnerable to fuel theft
Fuel theft is essentially an evergreen priority for fleet managers all over the UK, whatever the exact age of the HGVs in their fleet. But while all HGVs could benefit from protective measures – such as our very own TankSafe Optimum – it’s particularly important for older HGVs, as they can often be more vulnerable to tampering. So if you’ve not upgraded your fleet in a while, here are a couple of key points to consider!
Older caps offer weaker protection
Most fuel caps fitted to older HGVs weren’t really designed with modern theft techniques in mind. For example, lots use rudimentary locking systems, which often rely on simple barrel keys that are easily duplicated or forced open. These caps can be twisted off, drilled through, or bypassed altogether using hand tools in a matter of seconds. Even where locks are present, they frequently wear down over time, which can make them looser and less secure.
What’s more, most don’t include anti-drill or anti-twist reinforcement either. Essentially, without tamper-proof designs or secondary locks, these caps do little to delay or discourage someone attempting theft.
Lack of fuel level detection systems
Modern HGVs are frequently equipped with digital fuel level sensors that can detect rapid drops and alert operators in real time. This acts as a vital early warning system, especially when theft occurs during breaks or overnight stops. Lots of older HGVs, on the other hand, typically rely on analogue gauges without any real-time feedback. These mechanical indicators can be slow to respond, and may even give readings that are difficult to interpret with accuracy.
That means they provide much less visibility to fleet managers when the HGV is parked or unattended, which means that thefts may remain undiscovered until the vehicle is back on the road. By then, it’s often far too late, as the fuel is already gone and the incident can no longer be tracked.
No alerts for tamper attempts
One of the most significant differences between older and newer models is the presence – or absence – of live alert systems. Advanced fleets can be fitted with tamper sensors that detect movement, vibration, or unauthorised access near the fuel tank. These can trigger alarms, send SMS alerts, or notify fleet managers through a mobile app. Lots of older HGVs don’t have these measures, so there is no signal when a cap is being forced, no data trail, and no mechanism to trigger a response automatically. This can essentially make things a lot easier for people considering taking fuel from the HGV – whether they’re intruders, or (far more commonly) internal company employees.
Physical damage can go unnoticed for longer
Without telemetry or diagnostic integration, older trucks are much more vulnerable to physical tampering – and it may go unnoticed for longer too. Thieves may dent, pry, or otherwise damage filler necks, tanks, or protective housings when accessing fuel, but these signs often blend in with normal wear and tear. It’s the kind of thing that can sometimes escape all but the most detailed inspections, and in many cases, subtle damage may not be visible without removing panels or climbing under the HGV.
Of course, in an ideal case scenario, you’d be able to update your entire fleet with newer models of HGV. But with the cost of living crisis continuing unabated, and the repair costs for HGVs steadily rising, it can already be enough of a challenge to balance your budget – so we know replacing HGVs wholesale is probably a tall order! Another effective (and much more affordable) solution is to protect your HGVs with our very own TankSafe Optimum. It’s the only security device that can offer you 3 in 1 protection by saving you from fuel spills, overfilling, and making your vehicles 100% immune to fuel theft. Our product range is protected by 45 patents covering 49 territories worldwide, so rest assured you won’t find a more efficient and reliable source of protection anywhere else.
If you have any questions regarding any of our products, or you simply need some advice, feel free to head over to our FAQs page, where we answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding our products and services. However, if it doesn’t address your queries, you can give us a call on 01253 400 401, and we’ll be happy to help however we can!